Scissor lifts can be seriously very dangerous for the people on them as well as the people that are below if the safety precautions are not applied while operating. Even before starting the work, the workers are supposed to thoroughly analyze the working site and spot any dangers if present. They are supposed to see the condition of the ground, any electric wires or poles nearby, or any overhead object that could harm the workers. In addition to all these, there are a few more safety tips that the workers should follow while operating the hydraulic scissor lift. Give this article a read!
Top Essential Safety Tips When Using Scissor Lifts
Fall Protection
Falling is one of the most common and significant problems that is caused by any ariel lift platform. So, when talking about safety tips, first of all, we will discuss and address the problem of workers who die o get injured from falling to the ground.
So, to make sure that no accidents happen in the future, ensure there are safety guardrails that are high in quality and function. After you install the guard rails on the scissor lift, it is optional that you wear a safety harness. Nevertheless, companies whose work mainly revolve around lifts should have a safety harness system for the workers no matter what. Furthermore, to prevent any accidents, the workers should be guided to stand on top of the designated platform area and should be prohibited from leaning on or stepping onto the rail guards.
Finally, it is strongly advised against the rule that one worker alone should not be operating the whole lift; there should at least be two people.
Stabilization
Stabilization is one of the key elements to keep the workers from falling and getting seriously injured from the lift tipping over or crumbling. So, the workers should make certain of the fact that the lift is firm and stable. This thorough check and balance could be achieved by following simple rules.
The first and foremost thing to confirm is that the place you are using to make the scissor lift stand I not bumpy, rugged, or steep slope. The ground under the lift should be plain, stable, and solid. Another thing to keep in mind is to never place and use the lift in an area where there is a lot of traffic or heavy machinery nearby. You never know when something will hit the lift, and it will wobble over. Last but not least, do not use it when the weather is stormy or even windy; wait for the weather to clear up first, and then use the lift to complete up the tasks after confirming that you are not crossing the allowed weight or height.
Positioning
It is very necessary for the workers to recognize the significance and seriousness of positioning and of how to steer clear of crashing. This is because the workers working on the lift are no safer than the ones standing down below. Workers on the lift are also at a risk of electric shocks even when they or the lift does not touch with the electric lines. So, to avoid all these hazards, it is vastly suggested that the lift should be parked 10 feet or more away from electric poles and lines. Make use of traffic cones and traffic guides to clear the path of construction from vehicular activity. And finally, do check for any fixed objects or wires over the heads of the workers.
Conclusion
Besides all these instructions given above, workers that regularly work on these scissor lifts should have know-how on how to operate and maintain them efficiently. This is because these lifts become safer when they are constantly being maintained after and before every use. Moreover, the people operating these machines should follow all the safety rules that come with the machine to keep themselves and the people around them safe.
