Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machines capable of lifting heavy and large loads which are well balanced. They are responsible for transporting workers and their supplies to and from high places efficiently and safely. Because these mobile heavy equipment are classified as heavy machinery, there are many safety requirements that apply to the use and maintenance of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts could be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access various areas. These pieces of machines have been designed to move heavy cargo, individuals and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Typically, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machine while it is being used. All staff working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machine must be informed regarding its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machinery helps keep the working place and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several strict safety rules to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts in an effort to make certain that employees do not fall from the lift when they are operating it. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock which must be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another safety habit that workers must think about is to make certain that all cargo are fastened safely before any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anyone to be injured.