Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift equipment are called "moveable scaffolds," based on the OSHA. These industrial machinery are capable of raising heavy and large cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for moving workers and their supplies to and from high places safely and efficiently. Since these mobile heavy machinery are categorized as heavy equipment, there are numerous safety requirements that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts could be driven around or moved on wheels to make them able to access a variety of places. These pieces of equipment have been designed to move heavy loads, individuals and equipment up or down from height. 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 used. All staff working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machine need to 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 equipment helps keep the working place and all those in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are some strict safety rules to follow about 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. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails placed around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock which needs to be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another good safety habit employees must make is ensuring that heavy loads or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure manner prior to moving the lift to be certain that nothing causes anybody on the lift platform to become injured.