Negative Effects of Using Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a kind of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted equipment which provides power to a work platform that moves down and up. The lift can be powered by propane, electricity, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints that raise the equipment by expanding and collapsing. Many safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, specially the newer models. As with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and several features could be manually overridden by operators or they could occasionally malfunction.
Inadvertent Elevation
Construction workers commonly use scissor lifts to work at higher heights. Workers could hoist the work platform to just below the ceiling level. The issue with accidental elevation could take place if the workers inadvertently bump into the elevation controls when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be accidentally activated and the platform can rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Workers need to be really careful, making sure they are fully aware of their environment. This will ensure they don't inadvertently electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator inadvertently touches or makes direct contact with an induction field or an electrical conductor, terrible outcome could take place.
Lateral Loads
It is essential to be familiar with the loading restrictions while using the scissor lift. These restrictions will be labelled in the scissor lift instruction manual. Mis-loading the platform could result in extremely terrible consequences. A lateral-load is amongst the potential problems which can take place if the entire lift overturns. This situation happens if a heavy material or tool like for instance a concrete slab that hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the whole machine to become instantly unbalanced and greatly prone to dangerously tipping over.