Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift equipment are known as "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial machinery are capable of raising heavy and big cargo that are well balanced. They are responsible for moving employees and their supplies to and from high areas in a safe and efficient manner. As these mobile heavy equipment are classified as heavy machinery, there are many safety standards which 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 various areas. These pieces of machines have been designed to transport heavy cargo, individuals and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Generally, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machinery while it is being utilized. All staff working directly with as well as around the machine should be informed about its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machinery helps keep the working environment and all those in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety rules to follow about the safety standards for the scissor lifts in order to make certain that employees do not fall from the lift when they are operating it. Even though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for instance guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter along with 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 safety habit which employees must consider is to make sure that all loads are fastened safely prior to any lifting. This should ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.