Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machines are called "moveable scaffolds," based on the OSHA. These industrial machinery are capable of lifting heavy and large loads which are well balanced. They are responsible for moving employees and their materials to and from high areas safely and efficiently. Since these mobile heavy equipment are categorized as heavy equipment, there are many safety requirements which apply to the use and maintenance of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts can be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access various places. These pieces of machines have been designed to transport heavy loads, individuals and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted 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 used. All employees working directly with as well as around the machine must 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 machinery helps keep the working place and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several strict safety rules to follow about the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make sure that workers do not fall from the lift when they are using it. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock which should be engaged on the lift platform entrance each time the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more good safety habit employees must make is ensuring that heavy loads or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure manner before moving the lift to be sure that nothing causes anyone on the lift platform to become injured.