Negative Effects of Using Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a kind of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted machinery that gives power to a work platform that moves down and up. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, gas or diesel. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints which raise the machine by expanding and collapsing. Numerous safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, especially models which are newer. As with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and some features can sometimes malfunction or they can be overridden by operators manually.
Accidental Elevation
Normally, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on ceilings or on higher aspects of the jobsite. The workers will have to raise the platforms just to right beneath the level of the ceiling. The problem with accidental elevation could take place if the workers bump into the elevation controls inadvertently when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be accidentally activated and the platform can rise up and inadvertently crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Employees need to be extremely careful, making sure they are completely aware of their environment. This will ensure they don't accidentally electrocute themselves. If, for example, an operator makes direct contact with or inadvertently touches an electrical conductor or an induction field, tragic outcome can occur.
Lateral Loads
It is important to be familiar with the loading restrictions when using the scissor lift. These limitations would be labelled in the scissor lift guidebook. Mis-loading the platform can result in extremely terrible consequences. A lateral-load is one of the possible problems which can take place if the whole lift overturns. This situation takes place if a heavy material or tool like a concrete slab which hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the whole machine to become instantly unbalanced and really prone to tipping over dangerously.