Negative Effects of Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a specific kind of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted equipment gives power to a work platform that moves up and down. The lift could be powered by propane, electricity, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints which raise the equipment by collapsing and expanding. A lot of safety features are built into scissor lifts these days, especially the newer models. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features can sometimes malfunction or they can be manually overridden by operators.
Accidental Elevation
Construction workers usually utilize scissor lifts to work at higher heights. Workers can hoist the work platform to just below the ceiling level. The issue with accidental elevation could occur if the workers inadvertently bump into the elevation controls when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be accidentally activated and the platform can rise up and inadvertently crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way employees need to be very cautious is to be sure they know the surroundings they are in while using the machinery so as to make sure they don't unintentionally electrocute themselves. If, for example, an operator makes direct contact with or accidentally touches an induction field or an electrical conductor, tragic consequences could happen.
Lateral Loads
It is essential to know the loading limitations while utilizing the scissor lift. These limitations would be labelled in the scissor lift handbook. Mis-loading the platform can result in very terrible consequences. A lateral-load is amongst the potential issues that can happen if the entire lift overturns. This situation takes place when a heavy material or tool like a concrete slab which hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the entire equipment to become unbalanced at once and really susceptible to tipping over dangerously.