Negative Effects of Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a type of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted equipment which provides power to a work platform which moves down and up. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints that raise the machinery by collapsing and expanding. Lots of safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, particularly models which are newer. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features could sometimes malfunction or they could be overridden by operators manually.
Inadvertent Elevation
Construction workers commonly use scissor lifts to work at higher heights. Workers could hoist the work platform to just below the ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation can occur if the workers bump into the elevation controls inadvertently when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be activated accidentally and the platform could rise up and inadvertently crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way workers need to be very cautious is to be sure they are familiar with the environment they are in while operating the equipment so as to make sure they don't unintentionally electrocute themselves. If, for instance, the operator inadvertently touches or makes direct contact with an induction field or an electrical conductor, tragic outcome can happen.
Lateral Loads
When operating a scissor lift, it is vital to be familiar with the loading limitations in the guidebook of your scissor lift. Really terrible consequences can happen if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is among the possible issues which can occur if the entire lift overturns. This situation occurs if a heavy tool or material like a concrete slab that hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the entire equipment to become instantly unbalanced and greatly susceptible to tipping over dangerously.