Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machines are called "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial equipment are capable of lifting heavy and large loads which are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their materials to and from high places in an efficient and safe way. Because these mobile heavy machinery are categorized as heavy machinery, there are lots of safety standards that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they could move around to access a wider variety of places. These pieces of machines have been designed to move heavier loads, equipment and even employees up and down to work locations. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift while relocating. Usually, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machine while it is being utilized. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the equipment 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 environment and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
To be able to guarantee that workers prevent falling when using the machine, there are some safety regulations to consider regarding forklift safety standards. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails placed around the lift perimeter along with a lock which must be engaged on the lift platform entrance each and every time the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
Another good safety habit workers should make is ensuring that heavy cargo or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure way before moving the lift to be certain that nothing causes anybody on the lift platform to become injured.