Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machinery are referred to as "moveable scaffolds," based on the OSHA. These industrial machines are capable of raising heavy and big loads that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting workers and their supplies to and from high areas in a safe and efficient manner. As these mobile heavy equipment are categorized as heavy machines, there are lots of safety requirements that apply to the use and maintenance of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they can move around to access a wider variety of areas. These pieces of machines have been designed to move heavier loads, equipment and even employees down and up to work areas. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Typically, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the equipment while it is being utilized. All staff working directly with as well as around the equipment should be informed about its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake to be able to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machinery helps keep the working environment and all those in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety regulations to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts in an effort to make sure that employees do not fall from the lift when they are using it. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock that has to be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
One more safety habit which workers should consider is to make certain that all loads are fastened securely before any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.