Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machines capable of raising heavy and large cargo which are well balanced. They are responsible for moving workers and their supplies to and from high elevations efficiently and safely. Because these mobile heavy equipment are classified as heavy equipment, there are a lot of safety standards which apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they can move around to access a wider variety of places. These pieces of machinery have been designed to move heavier cargo, equipment and even employees up and down to work areas. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift when relocating. Usually, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the equipment while it is being used. All employees working directly with as well as around the machine must be informed regarding its movement prior to the driver releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machines helps keep the working place and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
To be able to ensure that workers prevent falling when operating the equipment, there are some safety rules to consider about forklift safety standards. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter along with a lock which must be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more safety habit that workers must consider is to make certain that all cargo are fastened safely before any lifting. This should ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.