Disadvantages of Using Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a kind of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted equipment that gives power to a work platform that moves down and up. The lift can be powered by propane, electricity, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints that elevate the machine by collapsing and expanding. Numerous safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, specially the newer models. Like with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features can sometimes malfunction or they could be overridden by operators manually.
Inadvertent Elevation
Commonly, construction workers utilize scissor lifts to work on ceilings or on higher aspects of the jobsite. The workers will need to lift the platforms just to right below ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation can happen if the workers bump into the elevation controls accidentally when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be accidentally activated and the platform could rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Workers have to be extremely cautious, making sure they are fully aware of their surroundings. This will ensure they don't inadvertently electrocute themselves. If, for example, an operator makes direct contact with or inadvertently touches an electrical conductor or an induction field, terrible consequences could happen.
Lateral Loads
When operating a scissor lift, it is vital to be familiar with the loading limitations in the handbook of your scissor lift. Really terrible consequences can happen if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is amongst the potential problems that can take place if the whole lift overturns. This situation occurs when a heavy tool or material like a concrete slab that hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the entire machine to become unbalanced at once and greatly prone to tipping over dangerously.