Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machines are known as "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial machines are capable of lifting heavy and big loads which are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their materials to and from high elevations in a safe and efficient way. As these mobile heavy machines are categorized as heavy machinery, there are a lot of safety requirements that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts could be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access a variety of areas. These pieces of equipment have been designed to transport heavy cargo, individuals and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Generally, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machinery while it is being used. All employees working directly with as well as around the machinery have to be informed regarding its movement prior to the driver releasing the safety brake to be able to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy equipment helps keep the working environment and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are some stringent safety rules to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts in an effort to make certain that workers do not fall from the lift when they are using it. Even if 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 needs to be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another safety habit which employees must think about is to make sure that all loads are fastened safely prior to any lifting. This should ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anyone to be injured.