Disadvantages of Using Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a specific type of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted machine provides power to a work platform which moves down and up. The lift could be powered by propane, electricity, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints that elevate the machinery by expanding and collapsing. Many safety features are built into scissor lifts nowadays, specially the newer models. Like with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and some features could be manually overridden by operators or they could occasionally malfunction.
Inadvertent Elevation
Commonly, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers will need to lift the platforms just to right below the level of the ceiling. The problem with accidental elevation could take place if the workers inadvertently bump into the elevation controls while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be accidentally activated and the platform could rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way employees need to be extremely careful is to be certain they know the environment they are in while using the machine in order to ensure they don't unintentionally electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator makes direct contact with or inadvertently touches an induction field or an electrical conductor, tragic outcome could occur.
Lateral Loads
It is essential to know the loading limitations while using the scissor lift. These limitations will be labelled in the scissor lift guidebook. Mis-loading the platform could cause extremely terrible consequences. A lateral-load is amongst the potential problems which can take place if the entire lift overturns. This situation happens when a heavy material or tool such as a concrete slab that hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the entire equipment to become unbalanced at once and greatly susceptible to tipping over dangerously.