Scissor lifts are one of the essential types of equipment used in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, entertainment, and retail. It has the unique mechanism that moves the work platform straight up using a scissor-like cross beam functioning.
However, they can be hazardous if not functioned properly in both extended as well as stationary position. Operating lifts correctly depends on various factors like working capabilities, safe practices, and limitations. You can prevent fatalities and injuries by following the safety guidelines while working on a lift.
Most severe conditions involving scissor lift can be the result of employers not considering positioning, fall protection, and stabilization. While scissor lifts can make your work easier, you need to understand its safety obligations as well.
Here are six things you should remember:
Read the Manual
Before you proceed to operate any equipment, it is highly advisable to go through the manual carefully. Doing this will help you understand the technique of operating controls and how to use them. The safety considerations and instructions will help perform machinery appropriately and also keep people safe.
Place It the Right Way
Check whether or not the lift is positioned correctly. It means that the lift should not exceed its minimum height and also avoid coming in contact with power lines.
You should also ensure to eliminate anything like overhead wires hanging over the lift for safer working. Do not forget to follow the ground guides ensuring that every employee is aware of the work environment where the lift is being used.
Focus On Stability
In order to keep it stable, make sure you put the lift at a certain distance away from other types of equipment. Check for any holes and rough surfaces on the ground where you aim to use the lift to avoid falls and accidents.
Before you finally operate it, read the manufacturer’s manual to know the limits on both height and weight and other do’s and don’ts set by the manufacturing company.
Employees Must Be Well-Trained
Under OSHA guidelines, it is essential for all workers to obtain a proper scissor lift certification and training. It should include both theoretical and practical instructions, and cover various operations like performing different scissor lifts, inspections, assessment of a worksite and how to avoid accidents.
Employees should learn everything about scissor lifts, including:
- Safely driving a scissor lift in different types of terrain.
- Proper assessment of the area, especially while working indoors.
- How to control the lift safely.
- Performing regular examinations.
- Identifying and avoiding hazards.
You simply can’t replace the benefits you will get from scissor lift training. Moreover, an inexperienced operator can be dangerous by not only damaging your property, but also causing injuries and fatalities.
In addition, becoming a certified operator will save time and money by reducing damage costs and increasing worker productivity.
Regular Inspection of the Equipment
It is again one of the crucial safety steps you should include in your routine. Make sure to examine the workplace environment, test your guardrails, and take regular meetings with your workers about safety regulations.
Use Fall Protection Equipment
Considering workers’ well-being also plays a significant role along with the overall workplace safety. Certain job sites demand to install guardrails for extra protection. Make sure your employees use body harnesses if they are at a specific height. Further, your workers should know how to work on the lift platform and do not lean on rails.
These are the five things to remember while operating a scissor lift to keep workers and people around safe, and increase productivity!