Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machines capable of lifting heavy and big loads which are balanced well. They are responsible for moving employees and their supplies to and from high areas in an efficient and safe way. Since these mobile heavy equipment are categorized as heavy machinery, there are lots of safety standards that apply to the use and maintenance 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 machines have been designed to move heavy cargo, people and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Generally, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machine while it is being utilized. All employees working directly with as well as around the machine should be informed about its movement prior to the driver releasing the safety brake to be able to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machines helps keep the working environment and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety regulations to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make certain that workers do not fall from the lift when they are utilizing it. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for example guard rails placed around the lift perimeter along with a lock that should be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another good safety habit workers must make is ensuring that heavy cargo or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure manner prior to moving the lift to be sure that nothing causes anyone on the lift platform to become injured.