Scissor Lift Safety

It seems scissor lifts have become commonplace in construction, maintenance, and other industries. Although now commonplace, they can pose certain safety risks if not operated properly. In this episode, we have eight tips on how to operate a scissor lift safely.

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Transcript

Scissor Lift Safety 

It seems scissor lifts have become commonplace in construction, maintenance, and other industries. They provide temporary elevated work platforms. Although now commonplace, they can pose certain safety risks if not operated properly. In this episode, we have eight tips on how to operate a scissor lift safely.

Definitions

A scissor lift is a mobile elevated work platform. It moves vertically, providing access to higher areas that may be hard to reach. It's named the 'scissor' lift due to the cross-brace supports that extend and compress, resembling the shape of a pair of scissors. 

History of the Scissor Lift 

The design of the scissor lift is based on the pantograph, which has been used in many applications since the 19th century. The pantograph mechanism is a series of interconnected folding arms that can extend and retract. 

The earliest scissor lifts were manually operated. They were used primarily for lifting heavy objects in industrial settings. In the 1920s, Sweden used hydraulic lifts for streetlight maintenance and repair.

It was 1966 when Charles Larson received a U.S. patent for his scissor lift design. Larson's model was both simpler and more efficient than earlier versions. Despite Larson's patent, John W. Parker is generally recognized as the inventor of the scissor lift.

The first scissor lifts were relatively basic, but evolution was inevitable. In the 1970s, the scissor lift experienced its first major update. Hydraulic and pneumatic systems were introduced, vastly improving lifting power and efficiency. These systems utilized the principles of fluid mechanics to amplify the lift's strength. These improvements made it capable of lifting heavier loads with less effort. Within that same decade, major lift manufacturers, including JLG and MEC, joined the market. 

The 1980s brought another wave of innovation with the introduction of the electric scissor lift. Electric lifts were perfect for indoor applications where noise and emissions were a concern. The ability to use scissor lifts indoors expanded their use to warehouses, retail stores, and many other industries.

The 2010s brought advancements in safety features. Modern lifts are smarter and safer with tilt sensors, automatic braking systems, and wind speed sensors. Many now have platform extensions, increasing workers' reach without the need to reposition the lift.

In the last decade, we've seen the rise of smart scissor lifts that can diagnose mechanical issues and track usage data. Some can be remote-controlled using an app. With every innovation, the scissor lift only gets safer and more efficient.

Scissor Lifts Statistics

In 2021 the BLS recorded 100 deaths related to aerial lifts, including scissor lifts. Falls accounted for half of these incidents, and being struck by an object made up another quarter. 

One OSHA study reported ten avoidable deaths and over 20 preventable injuries from scissor lift incidents. Most of these cases were due to a lack of fall protection, stabilization, or improper positioning.

Between 2011 and 2014, 1,380 workers were injured using an aerial or scissor lift. Three hundred and six injuries resulted from slips, trips, and falls. In the same period, 87 workers died while operating an aerial or scissor lift. Forty-eight of those deaths resulted from slips, trips, and falls from one level to another.

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/falls/aeriallift.htm

Scissor Lift Safety Tips 

Safety Tip #1 - Pre-operation Inspection: Complete a thorough inspection before operating a scissor lift. Look for potential damages or leaks and ensure all controls function correctly.

Safety Tip #2 - Start-Up and Shutdown: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for starting and shutting down the scissor lift. This typically includes checking the controls, emergency stop buttons, and other safety features. Also, always keep the scissor lift's load limit in mind. 

Safety Tip #3 - Harnesses: OSHA doesn't require safety harnesses for scissor lifts. But always wear a harness if your employer, local jurisdiction, or other guidelines require them.

Safety Tip #4 - Secure the Work Area: Clear the work area of any debris or obstacles. Ensure signs are in place to warn others of work in the area.

Safety Tip #5 - Windy Conditions: High winds can be dangerous and destabilize a scissor lift. Use caution and avoid operating the lift under those conditions.

Safety Tip #6 - Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Look out for overhead obstacles and nearby power lines. 

Safety Tip #7 - Training: Only those with proper training should ever operate a scissor lift.

Safety Tip #8 – Know the Safety Features: Operators must know the safety features of their specific operating model. Always follow the recommended operating procedures to maximize safety during use.