Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial equipment capable of raising heavy and big cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for moving employees and their supplies to and from high elevations safely and efficiently. Since these mobile heavy machinery are classified as heavy machines, there are numerous safety standards 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 various areas. These pieces of equipment 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. Generally, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machinery while it is being utilized. All staff working directly with as well as around the machine should 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 place and all those in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several strict safety regulations to follow about the safety standards for the scissor lifts in order to make certain that workers do not fall from the lift when they are operating it. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails placed around the lift perimeter along with a lock which must be engaged on the lift platform entrance each and every time the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more safety habit that workers should 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.