Top 3 Dangers of Scissor Lifts and How to Avoid Them

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Scissor lifts make work a lot easier due to their flexibility and mobility, which is probably why you have taken the step to hire equipment Auckland. For example, they are the best option for temporary platforms as opposed to erecting a scaffolding system. However, they also come with lethal safety risks.

According to OSHA, the top dangers of scissor lifts are falls from heights, electrocutions, collapses, tip-overs, and being struck by objects. If you are a construction worker and in your workplace you are constantly around scissor lifts, you need to know the dangers lurking. As you plan to approach a scissor lift hire Auckland provider, know that it is equally important that you are made aware of the potential hazards of these lifts. By knowing these risks as well as how to avoid them, the workplace will be much safer for everyone.

Electric Shock

When you work too close to power lines, you are always at the risk of being electrocuted. But it's not only those that are high up on the platform that is at the risk of being shocked. Also, those that are close by are not safe because the shock can be transferred through the machine in case it is not properly insulated.
To prevent this hazard, always ensure that your lift is not too close to the power lines. If you are not an expert on electrical matters, it is best to stay at least three meters from power lines. All power lines, conductors, and wires should be treated as though they are energized. Don't take anything for granted even if all the wires appear to be properly insulated.

Additionally, always adhere to the guidelines below:
>> Make sure you wear fall protection gear
>> Avoid placing the lift between power lines as much as possible
>> If power lines are inevitable, make sure electrical experts have de-energized them before you commence any work. Also, make sure you wear protective gear like boots, appropriate clothing, gloves, and hard hats.

Tip-Overs

With the increase in height, the center of gravity increases and its stability decreases. To avert a tip-over as you move, always look where you are going. More especially, watch out for obstacles like holes, bumps, debris, or uneven inclines or terrains. Scissor lifts are also likely to be affected by high ground and high winds even if the lift is stationary. Make sure the brakes are set and utilize wheel chocks any time you are on an incline. More importantly, abide by the manufacturer's instructions on how to operate a scissor lift when in high wind speeds. In general, wind speeds should not exceed 28 mph although it is possible for your lift to have a rating of zero wind speed. If unsure, talk to the scissor lift hire Auckland services provider.

Falls from Heights

As in the case of any equipment, falls are fairly easy accidents, especially where the users do not take preventive steps. To prevent scissor lift falls, workers should carefully assess their surroundings and ensure that there are workers or objects nearby that may come into contact with or strike the lift. OSHA demands that all workers working with scissor lifts have the right fall protection gear. These should include lanyards and full-body harnesses. In addition, workers should adhere to the following protective guidelines:

>> Make sure all openings or access gates are closed while using the platform.
>> Stand firmly on the platform
>> Avoid standing or climbing on the guardrails completely
>> Desist from using planks or ladders in a working position when inside the scissor lift platform.