Scissor Lifts: A Safety Guide
When construction or maintenance projects involve work up off the ground, a scissor lift is one of the safest and best ways to lift workers. Scissor lifts are often a better solution than ladders or scaffolding because they are easily moved and can carry multiple workers and supplies/tools as well.
While these movable platforms are one of the safest ways to work on projects at height, incorrect use is dangerous. Most scissor lift accidents fall into three categories: fall protection, stabilization, and positioning.
When you buy a scissor lift or other equipment from Adcock Equipment, Inc., we want the machine to last a long time and workers to stay 100% safe. Here are some tips on how to operate your scissor lift safely. Please reach out to us with any questions at our two locations, in Langley, British Columbia, and Edmonton, Alberta.
Four Key Safety Areas for Scissor LIfts
Safety starts before anyone even gets on the machine and hits the “on” button. These pre-work activities fall into four categories.
Training
Workers must be fully trained and provided with necessary personal protective equipment.
Equipment Maintenance
Always comply with the recommended maintenance schedule from the manufacturer. Test and inspect the machine’s controls before every use, especially the protective controls such as the emergency stop function and brakes.
Environment
A secure environment is absolutely critical. Always assess the worksite for all possible hazards such as uneven ground or nearby power lines. If physical features of the worksite prevent safe positioning and stabilizing your scissor lift, collaborate with the site manager to make changes.
Stabilizing Your Scissor Lift
Poor stabilization is one of the most frequent causes of preventable scissor lift accidents. The higher the lift goes, the higher the center of gravity, so while it may seem entirely stable when it is on the ground, stability diminishes with height. Follow these rules:
- Work on firm, level surfaces whenever possible.
- When you must work on uneven terrain, use a scissor lift specifically made for that purpose.
- Lower the work platform completely before moving the lift.
- Don’t work in high winds. Check the wind rating for your lift.
- Don’t exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit.
Positioning a Scissor Lift
Incorrect positioning can result in workers getting crushed or electrocuted, or the machine tipping. Train workers to avoid positioning accidents.
Always clear the area of people when moving a lift. Be aware of stationary objects and moving vehicles. At crowded worksites, have someone handle traffic control to prevent collisions.
Always maintain adequate distance to prevent electric damage. Strictly avoid direct contact with power lines. Electricity can arc from power lines to the lift or to a worker, even when neither one is actually touching the power source. Consult the user manual for safe distances that vary according to the voltage of the source.
Scissor lifts are incredibly useful and quite safe when used properly. Please follow all safety protocols diligently, and reach out to us at Adcock Equipment with any questions. We look forward to serving you at our two locations in Langley, British Columbia, and Edmonton, Alberta.