Disadvantages of Using Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a type of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted equipment which gives power to a work platform that moves up and down. The lift can be powered by propane, electricity, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints which lift the machine by expanding and collapsing. A lot of safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, particularly the newer models. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features can sometimes malfunction or they could be manually overridden by operators.
Accidental Elevation
Commonly, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers would need to hoist the platforms just to right beneath the level of the ceiling. The problem with accidental elevation can happen if the workers bump into the elevation controls inadvertently while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be accidentally activated and the platform could rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Employees have to be very cautious, making certain they are fully aware of their surroundings. This will ensure they don't accidentally electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator makes direct contact with or inadvertently touches an induction field or an electrical conductor, terrible consequences can happen.
Lateral Loads
It is essential to be familiar with the loading restrictions while using the scissor lift. These restrictions would be labelled in the scissor lift instruction manual. Mis-loading the platform can lead to very terrible consequences. A lateral-load is one of the possible issues which can take place if the whole lift overturns. This situation happens when a heavy tool or material such as a concrete slab that hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the entire machinery to become unbalanced at once and really prone to dangerously tipping over.