Negative Effects of Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a specific type of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted machinery gives power to a work platform that moves down and up. The lift could be powered by electricity, propane, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints that elevate the machine by expanding and collapsing. Many safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, specially models that are newer. As with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and some features could be overridden by operators manually or they can occasionally malfunction.
Inadvertent Elevation
Normally, construction workers utilize scissor lifts to work on ceilings or on higher aspects of the jobsite. The workers will need to raise the platforms just to right beneath ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation could occur if the workers bump into the elevation controls inadvertently 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
Workers need to be very cautious, making sure they are completely aware of their surroundings. This will ensure they don't accidentally electrocute themselves. If, for example, an operator accidentally touches or makes direct contact with an electrical conductor or an induction field, tragic consequences can take place.
Lateral Loads
When using a scissor lift, it is important know the loading restrictions in the instruction manual of your scissor lift. Very serious consequences can happen if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is among the possible problems that can take place if the entire lift overturns. This situation takes place if a heavy material or tool such as a concrete slab which hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the whole equipment to become instantly unbalanced and really susceptible to dangerously tipping over.