SCISSOR LIFTS

By Jill Hoffmann

STATISTICS 3/4 of tip-overs resulted in fall deaths—in the

remaining accidents, workers died from being struck by the falling scissor lift

2/5 of the tip-overs occurred when the scissor lift was extended over 15 feet, mostly while driving the lift

STATISTICS (Cont.)

In 1/5 of falls the worker was ejected from the scissor lift, mostly when an object struck the scissor lift.

Other fall deaths occurred after removal of chains or guardrails, or while standing on or leaning over railings.

BEFORE OPERATION Read the operator’s manual Complete a training course Understand the controls and

operations

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Employees should be trained on:

Electrical, fall and falling-object hazards Procedures for dealing with hazards How to operate the lift correctly Manufacturer requirements

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (Cont.) Operators should be re-trained

when: Hazards change The type of scissor lift changes A worker is operating the lift

improperly

PRE-START INSPECTION Should be completed before use What to check:

Operating and emergency controls Safety devices and limit switches Tires and wheels Outriggers Air, hydraulic, and fuel systems for leaks Loose or missing parts Guardrail systems Engine oil level Hydraulic reservoir level

WORKPLACE INSPECTION Before and during use

check the area for possible hazards, such as: Drop-off or holes Slopes Bumps Debris Overhead obstructions Wind and weather conditions Presence of unauthorized

persons

SAFETY EQUIPMENT/DEVICE INSPECTION Body belts Lanyards Emergency stop button Hand rails Entry gate Safety bar Outriggers

PROPER PROCEDURES Only lift and elevate the work platform on flat,

firm surfaces Use the safety bar DO NOT exert excessive side force while the

work platform is elevated DO NOT overload DO NOT alter or disable limit switches DO NOT raise the platform in windy conditions DO NOT park the platform on high traffic

sidewalks

SAFETY DEVICES Guardrails must be upright and locked in place

with locking pins Safety bar must be used for inspection and

maintenance Do not reach through scissor assembly without

the safety bar in its proper position Operator must wear fall protection

THE END