An Industrial Scissor lift is a broad term encompassing a wide arrange of lifting equipment that uses a folded support similar styled like scissor blades. These pieces of equipment are found throughout multiple industries and make up a multi-billion-dollar industry.
Even though a scissor lift is a valuable tool, they are also a costly purchase. Rest assured though; the high quality of these machines will generally make them last for years. However, it is imperative to choose the right one, so it is not just in the corner collecting dust.
What is a Scissor Lift?
Scissor lifts are platforms or work surfaces that can have their height adjusted to the correct position. Unlike other equipment that may offer the same purpose, a scissor lift can be operated easily by one person. Generally, the height range that a lift can extend up to is between 10 feet and 60 feet.
Benefits of a Scissor Lift
Scissor lifts will provide a much safer platform for employees working at a high height than a ladder. Also, they serve as a dependable lift when there is a vertical movement of goods or equipment as part of a business or service.
Most high-end scissor lifts can hold very heavy loads over a long period. As a result, they can be beneficial for industrial production, or tall repair and maintenance work. Some can hold up to 3000lbs without any problems.
Scissor lifts are also very versatile and mobile. In some cases, they can even come with wheels to move around a workspace such as a construction site. They can also come equipped to deal with uneven terrain and traverse over rough obstacles.
On top of this, scissor lifts are exceptionally durable and will often go without issues for decades. When a premium hydraulic scissor lift is purchased, customers may go more than 15 years before asking for a replacement part.
A scissor lift does not require any special licensing. However, it is important to understand how the machine operates so that you can keep everybody safe.
Safety Tips for a Scissor Lift
When operating a scissor lift, it is important to exercise extreme care. Any malfunctions, damages, or maintenance problems can lead to serious consequences. A scissor lift operator should be following a daily inspection checklist. Do not operate a scissor lift without making sure all equipment is in place, the operations work, and the vehicle is in pristine condition.
When using a scissor lift make sure the surrounding area near the base of the machine is clear. Before raising the lift, make sure it is on a firm surface. Before moving the lift, always make sure to lower the platform completely. Also, bear in mind that scissor lifts are susceptible to strong wind. If the wind is coming at a stronger pace than 25 MPH, it is not safe to operate.
These are only the most basic safety tips. Please do some thorough research on how to operate one before you use it.
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