Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machinery capable of lifting heavy and large loads that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their materials to and from high areas in an efficient and safe manner. Since these mobile heavy machines are categorized as heavy equipment, there are numerous safety requirements which apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they could move around to access a wider variety of places. These pieces of equipment have been designed to move heavier loads, equipment and even workers up and down to work locations. For safety reasons, employees are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift when relocating. Generally, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the equipment while it is being used. All employees working directly with as well as around the machine should be informed regarding its movement prior to the driver releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machinery helps keep the working environment and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
To be able to ensure that employees prevent falling when using the equipment, there are several safety regulations to consider regarding forklift safety standards. Even though 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 has to be engaged on the lift platform entrance each and every time the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
Another good safety habit workers should make is ensuring that heavy cargo or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure way prior to moving the lift to be sure that nothing causes anyone on the lift platform to become injured.