Negative Effects of Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a specific kind of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted machinery provides power to a work platform which moves up and down. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints that lift the machine by expanding and collapsing. A lot of safety features are built into scissor lifts nowadays, especially the newer models. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features could be manually overridden by operators or they can sometimes malfunction.
Inadvertent Elevation
Construction workers normally utilize scissor lifts to work at higher heights. Workers can hoist the work platform to just beneath the ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation could occur if the workers accidentally bump into the elevation controls while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be activated accidentally and the platform can rise up and inadvertently crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way employees need to be very cautious is to be certain they are familiar with the surroundings they are in while using the equipment in order to ensure they don't unintentionally electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator inadvertently touches or makes direct contact with an induction field or an electrical conductor, terrible consequences can occur.
Lateral Loads
While operating a scissor lift, it is essential to be familiar with the loading limitations in the instruction manual of your scissor lift. Very serious consequences could occur if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is one of the potential issues which can take place if the entire lift overturns. This situation takes place when a heavy tool or material such as a concrete slab which hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the entire equipment to become unbalanced right away and greatly prone to tipping over dangerously.