Disadvantages of Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a kind of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted machine which provides power to a work platform that moves up and down. The lift could be powered by electricity, propane, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints which lift the machine by collapsing and expanding. Many safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, specially models which are newer. Like with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and several features can occasionally malfunction or they could be manually overridden by operators.
Accidental Elevation
Usually, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers would need to raise the platforms just to right beneath the level of the ceiling. The issue with accidental elevation could happen if the workers inadvertently bump into the elevation controls when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be activated accidentally and the platform can rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Workers have to be extremely cautious, making certain they are fully aware of their surroundings. This will ensure they don't inadvertently electrocute themselves. If, for instance, the operator makes direct contact with or accidentally touches an induction field or an electrical conductor, tragic outcome could take place.
Lateral Loads
When using a scissor lift, it is vital know the loading restrictions in the instruction manual of your scissor lift. Very serious consequences can take place if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is among the possible issues that could happen if the entire lift overturns. This situation happens if a heavy tool or material like a concrete slab which hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the whole machinery to become unbalanced right away and greatly susceptible to dangerously tipping over.