Disadvantages of Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is a specific type of mobile scaffolding. This wheel-mounted machine gives power to a work platform which moves up and down. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints that elevate the machine by collapsing and expanding. Numerous safety features are built into scissor lifts nowadays, specially the newer models. Like with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features can be overridden by operators manually or they can occasionally malfunction.
Accidental Elevation
Usually, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers would have to hoist the platforms just to right beneath ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation can take place 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 inadvertently crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way workers have to be really careful is to be certain they know the environment they are in while utilizing the equipment in order to make sure they don't accidentally electrocute themselves. If, for example, an operator inadvertently touches or makes direct contact with an induction field or an electrical conductor, terrible consequences can take place.
Lateral Loads
When using a scissor lift, it is essential to be familiar with the loading restrictions in the guidebook of your scissor lift. Really serious consequences could occur if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is one of the possible issues which could happen if the entire lift overturns. This situation takes place if a heavy tool or material like a concrete slab that hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the whole machine to become unbalanced at once and greatly prone to tipping over dangerously.