Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machinery capable of lifting heavy and big loads which are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their materials to and from high places efficiently and safely. Because these mobile heavy equipment are categorized as heavy equipment, there are numerous safety requirements that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts can be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access a variety of areas. These pieces of machinery have been designed to transport heavy cargo, individuals and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift while relocating. Typically, 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 operator releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machinery helps keep the working place and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are some strict safety rules to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make sure that employees do not fall from the lift when they are operating it. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for example guard rails placed around the lift perimeter along with a lock that should 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 securely before any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anyone to be injured.