Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machines capable of lifting heavy and big cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting workers and their supplies to and from high elevations efficiently and safely. As these mobile heavy machines are categorized as heavy equipment, there are a lot of safety requirements which apply to the use and maintenance 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 machinery have been designed to transport heavy loads, people and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Typically, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machine while it is being utilized. All employees working directly with as well as around the machinery should be informed about its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machines helps keep the working place and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety rules to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts in an effort to make certain 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 guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter as well as a lock which must be engaged on the lift platform entrance every time the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more safety habit which workers must think about is to make sure that all loads are fastened safely before any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.