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Scissor lift operators and site managers at corporations large and small take on jobs that can be handled more efficiently and safely with a mechanical lift that is properly matched to the task at hand. Operators and site managers use them to increase productivity, improve safety and save money, but they will only succeed when they have the right equipment for the right project.
Most scissor lifts have a diverse range of uses, but it can be detrimental if the lift does not have the right size, capacity, height or other specifications needed for the job.
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Because aerial lifts ' such as scissor or boom lifts ' are often the best way to reach elevated work areas, a general knowledge of each benefits operators and site managers. Ownership or rental of a new or used scissor lift is an important step for any contractor. MacAllister Rentals can help with the entire process from initial consultation through product selection and maintenance.
A scissor lift is a machine made to move personnel and equipment in a vertical direction. These lifts can handle any application that would normally require a ladder, tower or scaffolding. Scissor lifts enable operators to complete the same jobs faster and more securely without the setup time of other equipment, such as scaffolding or a tower, and without the dangerous instability of a ladder.
Although the chance of a fall can never be completely eliminated when you work at any height, scissor lifts provide a safety harness or cable as well as a sturdy platform surrounded by a railing. The scissor lift's work platform provides a solid foundation and unsurpassed safety for work of all types that happens at low to medium elevations.
Sometimes you will hear of a scissor lift referred to by one of these names for its technical classification:
The lift is usually made of steel and includes a platform and railing supported by a beam ' or bar-style struts. The way the struts hinge together makes the assembly look like several sets of connected scissor blades, and as they operate, they perform an open-close motion similar to scissors. The X pattern actually has a technical name called a pantograph, and hydraulic mechanisms power the scissor action that enables the lift.
Scissor lifts typically extend from 10-60 feet vertically depending on the model, and the working heights tend to range between 20 and 40 feet, though there are models that move higher. Certain scissor lifts may even be moved forward and backwards with the lift partially extended, but this should only be undertaken with great caution. Always review your lift's user manual to check safety precautions for moving lifts while extended.
Other types of aerial lifts, such as an articulated or telescoping boom, reach higher heights than standard scissor lifts, but the scissor lift is able to carry more weight and offers a functional work platform. Scissor lifts also have an advantage over other options with their relatively small storage size when folded, which ranges from about five to nine feet in height and feature widths from 2' 6' to 5' 9'.
Some lifts sit on four wheels or legs and other models have outriggers that go into or onto the surrounding ground to add stability. Some scissor lifts run on electricity and/or a battery, while others take gas, diesel or other kinds of fuel.
Some machines are made to operate indoors, like those used for building maintenance or warehousing, while rough-terrain scissor lifts (RTS) can stand up to outdoor conditions and challenging paths. Some have non-marking tires while others do not. With many options within the same class of MEWP, the first step toward acquiring or renting a scissor lift is to consider what kind of work it will do and in what environments.
Many scissor lift models produce no emissions and operate at a low noise level.
Matching the height, dimensions and other specifications of a scissor lift to the job and environment is not only a matter of logistics, but also efficiency and most importantly, safety. The first step in getting a scissor lift in to do the job is to assess the site and goals, which will involve asking the following questions:
It is a good idea to enlist professional help as you figure out which machine will fulfill your needs the best.
Let's take a closer look at some of these considerations.
Any dimension restrictions such as narrow aisles, or load requirements such as extra-heavy weight, need to be considered.
You might need an ultra-quiet lift that generates no emissions and has non-marking tires, or it may need to be a lift that has a small, manageable step up to the platform and extends to a relatively low working height.
Along with the high ceilings of many structures come tall walls, and they both hold lights, artwork and other objects that must be accessed for maintenance and cleaning. These wide-ranging indoor needs are served by electric scissor lifts, while gas and diesel-powered models can handle outdoor jobs.
For example, if a construction company owner looks at purchasing a scissor lift, they need to consider the equipment's task, including necessary mobility and minimum and maximum heights that need to be reached. If your construction company builds average residential homes, you may never work much higher than at the standard height for one residential floor, a little more than 10 feet. Commercial floors are a little taller, about 11.4 feet, and both types would have allowances for rafter and roof heights.
Your needs assessment should include present and future requirements for the machinery. Anytime someone considers the purchase or rental of a piece of major machinery, they are making an investment especially when it enables the owner to break into new kinds of work.
For example, if you are a brick mason who only bids on jobs for one-story buildings because your folding scaffolding limits the heights your crew can work at, a scissor lift could significantly increase the number of jobs your business could take on.
A number of jobs require scissor lifts. If you see your job description or place of work below, a scissor lift could significantly improve the efficiency and safety of your work.
Huge corporate operations as well as small businesses and individual company owners find that scissor lifts help accomplish their elevated tasks.
Within each class of scissor and aerial lifts are several brands of machines. MacAllister Rentals carries a wide selection featuring JLG, Genie and others. Once the site and needs assessment reveals factors such as requirements, dimensions, weight and more, they can be matched to the right machine.
For example, the Hy-Brid model would be ideal for operation within a hospital, clinic, office or library setting because of a number of its features:
As another example, the bigger JLG LE and LE would better serve a manufacturing plant, warehouse, parking lot or other indoor environment where the machine has plenty of room to operate and is probably expected to bear a heavy load:
In between these two models are at least a dozen other electric-powered indoor scissor lifts to serve a variety of needs. When the projects take place outdoors, there is another family of scissor lifts to take care of business. These bigger models are usually called rough-terrain models, run on gas or diesel fuel and have hefty tires made to roll over dirt and rocks.
Many of the bigger outdoor models have four-wheel drive so they can get into those hard-to-reach places. The heavier-duty platforms carry weights in a general range between 1,000 and 2,250 pounds, which start about where the electric models leave off at their maximum. Gas and diesel-powered scissor lifts generally reach higher than their electric counterparts, with working heights between 38 and 50 feet.
Gas and diesel powered lifts have more generous platforms with room for several people plus equipment. The major differences among models tend to be how high they reach, how big a platform they have, how much weight the platform will carry and their drive capacity, such as four-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Rough terrain models can be outfitted with stabilizing struts too, for when they are stationary. These bigger, gas or diesel-powered models tend serve in construction, utilities, landscaping and other industries where work takes place outside.
Many models of scissor lifts have optional features available that make them even more versatile and allow users to customize the lift:
Scissor lifts, as with any aerial lift, require orientation and training to use safely. Operators will need to know how high the lift goes and exactly how that relates to objects such as the ceiling in a building and the power lines outside. Anyone running the scissor lift will need to be familiar with the controls and other normal operations, as well as what to do if something goes wrong.
Other dangers when using scissor lifts can include:
These steps aren't unreasonable considering they protect people from accidents and companies from liability. Safety on machines that lift people and equipment is so important that strict regulations apply, and operators must be properly trained. Once operators complete the training, they receive a three-year certificate. Some cities have ordinances or policies requiring anyone operating an aerial work platform to have the proper licensing.
Part of your safety plan should include regular inspection to make sure all the hinges are properly extended and that all components are working correctly. For a number of reasons, bad weather ' such as rain, hail, snow, sleet and lightning ' is an enemy to safe scissor-lift operations.
The price of a new scissor lift ranges from around $12,000 to $70,000 depending on the model, features and capacity sought. Used scissor lifts can be a more economical path to ownership since they have great potential to get the job done at a lower price than new. Rental of a scissor lift can also be a great, flexible money-saving option to use as needed.
Why rent a scissor lift? Flexible rental contracts are available ' daily, weekly, monthly, or longer if needed. Scissor lift rental has none of the costs associated with ownership such as sales taxes, and maintenance.
MacAllister Rentals provides for any kind of scissor, or other aerial lift ' whether you are looking to buy or rent a machine. Our rental division opened in as part of the MacAllister Machinery family. The company is in its third generation of family ownership.
Along with experience and variety of industries served, MacAllister Rentals has locations throughout Indiana and Michigan to make it convenient, fast and easy to access our huge inventory of machines for rent and for sale.
When you partner with us, you'll find the best in customer service ' not just on the day of rental and return, but all the times in between. We value our clients and know that industry leadership is earned by providing the best solutions at the best price. Contact us today with any questions about scissor lifts or other equipment, and we'll be happy to help.
A scissor lift is one of the most popular pieces of equipment used in the construction and retail industry. They help safely move workers vertically to accomplish various tasks that require someone to be high off the ground.
Because they are so popular but come with their risks, they are subject to U.S Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and American National Standards Institute ( ANSI) regulations. This means that not just anyone can use them. Those that do are required to go through specific scissor lift training courses.
These OSHA requirements enforce workplace safety standards to prevent employees from being injured on the job. These standards include fall protection and training on how to operate the machines. They also investigate accidents and injuries sustained in accidents.
Theoretically, almost anyone could get the training to use a scissor lift, but have they met the requirements of OSHA? Below, we'll look at the different types, certification requirements, and what it takes to use each scissor lift safely. So, can anyone use a scissor lift?
For more 12m Crawler Scissor Liftinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Types of Scissor LiftsFor starters, what is a scissor lift? Scissor lifts are considered mobile-supported scaffolding work platforms that move and lift workers. They are similar to the aerial lift but are categorized differently due to design differences. They're commonly used for window washing, maintenance, assembly, and various jobs in the construction industry.
While they are considered a type of aerial platform, that classification is reserved for aerial work platforms (AWP) and mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP).
Your needs will change depending on the job you're doing. For one project, you may need a diesel-powered lift, and then you'll need a different variety of equipment for the next.
Choosing the right scissor lift for the job will be determined by the height requirements, how big the platform is, and how much weight the platform can carry. You need to have completed your lift training and know how to use the equipment safely before you can operate it.
Electric Scissor LiftsAn electric scissor lift is best suited for indoor use because it generally fits in smaller spaces. They are less bulky and have narrow platforms compared to diesel-powered ones. Electric scissor lifts are fitted with non-marking tires to prevent floor damage. Electric power prevents them from being as powerful as diesel-powered models, but they are preferable for specific project types.
Diesel-Powered LiftsA diesel-powered machine provides the power to get workers around easily on outdoor terrain. Models that are engine powered have a larger platform and can lift more weight. They can also be used with rough terrain wheels. Since it runs on diesel fuel, it can be noisy and emit fumes unsafe for outdoor use.
Rough Terrain Scissor LiftsRough terrain scissor lifts are engine-powered models that can be used with rough terrain wheels to tolerate the ruggedness of heavy-duty outdoor work. They include an all-wheel drive to perform efficiently in tough job site conditions on uneven ground.
Rental CompaniesAre you wondering how a rental company can help you? Operating a scissor lift rental can be a flexible, budget-friendly solution when you need one for a specific project. Rental options vary depending on the company you choose and what type of model you need.
These companies often have the most advanced scissor lifts with the best safety features available without the cost of ownership. A good rental company will even replace broken lift equipment without charge.
Renting to operate a scissor lift allows you to adjust to individual job and terrain conditions without being tied down to one piece of equipment. All users and equipment must be OSHA-compliant before renting.
Do You Have to Be Trained to Use a Scissor Lift?The short answer is yes. To comply with OSHA, all employees need to complete a scissor lift safety program and hands-on evaluation to receive their certification. The company you work for is responsible for enforcing these standards and keeping up with OSHA requirements. Also, anyone who operates a scissor lift should understand the inspection requirements involved with these machines.
This is the most common question asked when it comes to operating this type of machine. All employees are required to have a license before they operate a scissor lift, an aerial lift or boom lift, and MEWPs to maintain OSHA requirements. Aerial lifts are designed slightly differently but follow the same standards for lift training.
Training is essential for job safety. OSHA scissor lift requirements cover fall protection and proper operating techniques to teach employees how to avoid potential hazards while they operate the machine. OSHA scissor lift requirements need to be followed diligently to prevent workplace accidents. Workplaces provide training and certification through company programs.
How Long Does it Take to Get Certified?Scissor lift certification can be completed in an hour, depending on the program. Training can be achieved with in-person demonstrations during work hours.
How you get certified for scissor lift training depends on your company's program to certify all its employees. Scissor lift license requirements can be easily obtained and understood if you follow all of the OSHA scissor lift requirements provided through the program.
Scissor Lift OperatorsOSHA requires site managers to review standard usage procedures and how to handle materials while operating a scissor lift. Scissor lift operators are also responsible for training employees on navigating potential workplace hazards and properly reporting equipment defects for maintenance.
Employers must also include manufacturer's instructions so employees studying for their certification or completing their scissor lift license requirements are guaranteed to use the machines properly. Employers and scissor lift operators can maximize proficiency at work by taking advantage of all the benefits these machines offer while ensuring that everyone on the site is safe.
How to Operate A Scissor Lift ' A Hands-On Operator EvaluationEvery construction company using this type of machinery must provide workers with a scissor lift safety course and go over safe operation techniques. Well-maintained, standard scissor lifts will meet OSHA standards and operate according to the steps below.
To start it:
With the proper training, all employees will be able to use the machine and follow all necessary safety measures properly.
Can I Use a Scissor Lift in My House?Some types are designed to work indoors and on finished floors, making them a potential option for in-home projects. If you have completed your training and understand how to use the equipment, you can use it in your home.
A lightweight model with wheels that spin counterclockwise can successfully move across carpet, laminate, and tile without causing damage to your floors. Just remember to follow OSHA guidelines to keep you safe.
Using Your Scissor Lift Safety CoursePart of the training is learning how to pick the right equipment for your project needs. Scissor lift certification is required before using this type of equipment to help keep you and the workplace safe.
Workers often need a sturdy platform to reach out-of-reach places without injuring themselves. These machines come in different models suitable for various industries and terrains. This is why this type of machine is perfect for most job sites. You or your company can even rent them to save money when they aren't necessary to have regularly. That still means you have to be certified to use them.
Final Thoughts on Scissor Lift SafetyWith all of this vital information, it's important to note that heavy machinery should never be operated by someone unqualified or inexperienced without being monitored by a professional. This could potentially lead to preventable injuries on the site.
Anyone can use one of these machines if they have received the proper training. However, operating them is best left to the professional who can successfully meet the license requirements. Don't attempt to use one of these at work or home until you are certified and fully trained.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Crawler Scissor Lift For Sale. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.