Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machinery are referred to as "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial machinery are capable of raising heavy and big cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their materials to and from high areas in a safe and efficient way. Because these mobile heavy machines are categorized as heavy machinery, there are many 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 machinery have been designed to move heavier loads, equipment and even workers down and up to work areas. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift when relocating. Usually, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machine while it is being utilized. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the equipment must 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 machinery helps keep the working environment and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
In order to ensure that workers prevent falling when operating the equipment, there are several safety regulations to think about about forklift safety standards. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for instance guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter as well as a lock which should be engaged on the lift platform entrance each time the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another safety habit that employees should think about is to make sure that all cargo are fastened safely before any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anyone to be injured.