Disadvantages of Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a type of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted machine that 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 which elevate the equipment by collapsing and expanding. Lots of safety features are built into scissor lifts today, particularly the newer models. As with any safety features, they might not be able to guarantee safety and some features could occasionally malfunction or they can be overridden by operators manually.
Accidental Elevation
Usually, construction workers use scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers will have to hoist the platforms just to right below the level of the ceiling. The issue with accidental elevation can take place if the workers bump into the elevation controls accidentally while working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls might be accidentally activated and the platform could rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Employees need to be really careful, making sure they are fully aware of their environment. This would ensure they don't inadvertently electrocute themselves. If, for example, the operator makes direct contact with or inadvertently touches an electrical conductor or an induction field, terrible consequences could happen.
Lateral Loads
While using a scissor lift, it is essential know the loading limitations in the handbook of your scissor lift. Really terrible consequences can occur if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is one of the possible problems that can happen if the entire lift overturns. This situation happens when a heavy material or tool like for example a concrete slab that hangs over the scissor lift platform's side, causing the whole machinery to become immediately unbalanced and greatly prone to tipping over dangerously.