Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial equipment capable of lifting heavy and big loads that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their materials to and from high areas efficiently and safely. Since these mobile heavy machines are categorized as heavy equipment, there are a lot of safety standards which apply to the maintenance and use 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 cargo, individuals and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted 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 employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with 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 equipment helps keep the working environment and all individuals 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 using it. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for example guard rails placed around the lift perimeter as well as a lock that must be engaged on the lift platform entrance every time the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
Another safety habit which employees must consider is to make sure that all loads are fastened securely prior to any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anyone to be injured.