Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machinery are called "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial equipment are capable of raising heavy and big cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting workers and their materials to and from high elevations safely and efficiently. Since these mobile heavy machinery are classified as heavy equipment, there are lots of safety requirements which 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 various areas. These pieces of machinery have been designed to transport heavy loads, people and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, employees are not allowed 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 utilized. All staff 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 to be able to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machines helps keep the working place and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several strict safety regulations 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 utilizing it. Even though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for instance 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 place for added safety.
One more good safety habit employees should make is ensuring that heavy cargo or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure manner before moving the lift to be sure that nothing causes anybody on the lift platform to become injured.