Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machinery capable of lifting heavy and big loads that are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their supplies to and from high areas efficiently and safely. Because these mobile heavy machines are classified as heavy machines, there are many safety requirements which apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts could be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access a variety of areas. These pieces of machinery have been designed to transport heavy loads, individuals and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Typically, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machine while it is being used. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machine need to be informed regarding 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 place and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
In order to guarantee that employees prevent falling when using the machine, 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 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.
One more good safety habit employees must make is ensuring that heavy loads or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a safe way prior to moving the lift to be sure that nothing causes anyone on the lift platform to become injured.