Negative Effects of Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a specific type of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted machine provides power to a work platform that moves down and up. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints which lift the equipment by collapsing and expanding. Lots of safety features are built into scissor lifts these days, particularly models which are newer. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features can occasionally malfunction or they can be manually overridden by operators.
Inadvertent Elevation
Usually, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers will have to lift the platforms just to right beneath ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation can occur if the workers inadvertently bump into the elevation controls while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be accidentally activated and the platform can rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way workers have to be really cautious is to be sure they are familiar with the surroundings they are in while utilizing the machine so as to make sure they don't accidentally electrocute themselves. If, for instance, the operator inadvertently touches or makes direct contact with an induction field or an electrical conductor, terrible consequences can occur.
Lateral Loads
It is vital to be familiar with the loading restrictions when in operation of the scissor lift. These limitations will be labelled in the scissor lift guidebook. Mis-loading the platform could lead to really serious consequences. A lateral-load is amongst the potential problems which can occur if the whole lift overturns. This situation happens when a heavy tool or material like for example a concrete slab that hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the whole machine to become unbalanced at once and greatly susceptible to tipping over dangerously.