Aerial Work Platform Safety

Put distance between the scissor lift and other equipment.

Wind isn’t the only thing that can have enough force to tip a scissor lift over, which brings us to our third step — make sure the scissor lift is out of the way of other equipment. If you are working in tight quarters, this may mean alternating activity with other construction equipment and workers. This can be an inconvenience, especially when you are on a tight schedule, but it’s worth it to avoid the risk of equipment bumping into a scissor lift, causing it to tip over.

Do not move the scissor lift in an upright position.

The final precautionary step you can take to prevent your scissor lift from tipping over is to avoid moving while operating a scissor lift in an upright position — no matter how small the distance. Some models may permit a certain level of movement with it in a partially elevated position, but never make any assumptions. Always make sure you consult the manufacturer’s owner manual so you aren’t putting anyone in danger.

 

Beware of collapsing.

While it is rare, it’s worth noting that scissor lifts can be unstable in another way: It’s possible that they can collapse. There are safety features built into these aerial lifts to ensure this doesn’t happen, and those features should be tested and maintained as needed — never bypassed. Why would you bypass a safety feature? Sometimes bypassing a safety feature could give you the ability to move the piece of equipment more quickly and conveniently. While there may be temporary benefits, the risks involved are not worth it.