Disadvantages of Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a type of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted machine which provides power to a work platform that moves up and down. The lift could be powered by electricity, propane, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by a variety of scissor-like joints that raise the machine by expanding and collapsing. Many safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, specially models that are newer. Like with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and several features can occasionally malfunction or they can be overridden by operators manually.
Accidental Elevation
Usually, construction workers utilize scissor lifts to work on ceilings or on higher aspects of the jobsite. The workers would need to hoist the platforms just to right below ceiling level. The problem with accidental elevation could happen if the workers inadvertently bump into the elevation controls while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be activated accidentally and the platform can rise up and inadvertently crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
A different way employees have to be extremely careful is to be certain they know the environment they are in while operating the machinery in order to make sure they don't unintentionally electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator makes direct contact with or accidentally touches an induction field or an electrical conductor, tragic consequences can happen.
Lateral Loads
When utilizing a scissor lift, it is important know the loading limitations in the instruction manual of your scissor lift. Really serious consequences can occur if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is among the possible issues which can take place if the entire lift overturns. This situation takes place if a heavy material or tool such as a concrete slab which hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the whole machinery to become immediately unbalanced and really prone to dangerously tipping over.