Negative Effects of Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a particular kind of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted machine provides power to a work platform which moves up and down. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints which elevate the machinery by expanding and collapsing. Many safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, especially models which are newer. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and some features could be overridden by operators manually or they can occasionally malfunction.
Accidental Elevation
Normally, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers will need to raise the platforms just to right below the level of the ceiling. The problem with accidental elevation could occur if the workers bump into the elevation controls inadvertently while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be activated accidentally and the platform can rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way workers need to be very careful is to be certain they know the environment they are in while using the equipment so as to ensure they don't accidentally electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator accidentally touches or makes direct contact with an electrical conductor or an induction field, tragic consequences could happen.
Lateral Loads
When utilizing a scissor lift, it is vital know the loading limitations in the instruction manual of your scissor lift. Really serious consequences can occur if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is among the potential issues that could occur if the whole lift overturns. This situation takes place if a heavy material or tool like a concrete slab that hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the entire equipment to become instantly unbalanced and greatly susceptible to tipping over dangerously.