Scissor Lift Types for Working at Heights

1. When on a work site and you need to work at heights, there are multiple types of scissor lifts to consider: hydraulic, diesel, electric, rough terrain, and pneumatic.

2. The most important safety of any mobile equipment is proper training. Operators must go through safety and operations training before they can operate. Retraining is also important as bad habits can be learned over time.

3. Conduct a daily equipment inspection or after each shift when used on multiple shifts. This includes both a visual and physical inspection. If deficiencies are found during the inspection, tag the lift out of service until repairs can be made.

4. Hydraulic scissor lifts are powered by hand-operated or engine-driven hydraulic systems. The changing pressure of the hydraulic oil in the machine helps to operate the lift and move the platform up and down.

5. Since a hydraulic scissor lift is relatively easy to operate, users aren’t required to undergo much training, making it a simple option when you have lifting needs.

6. The most commonly used lifts are diesel powered. Their cross-braced system allows them to reach a height of 30 feet, with certain models extending as high as 60 feet. Their design also provides them with a larger aerial platform.

7. Since a diesel lift is powered by traditional diesel fuel, they are noisy and emit fumes into the environment. Therefore, they are usually reserved for outdoor construction sites or areas where ventilation is present and noise can dissipate.

8. An alternative to burning fuel, electric scissor lifts feature a silent, powered drive mechanism. Since they do not emit fumes or noise, electric scissor lifts provide a cleaner solution for indoor spaces, which often have insufficient ventilation.

9. Electric machines are also less bulky than their diesel counterparts, making them optimal in smaller spaces.

10. Rough terrain scissor lifts are designed for outdoor terrain. They have large, heavy duty, outdoor tires that can handle terrain. They come equipped with a high weight capacity and additional safety mechanisms like fall restraints and arrestors.

11. Rough terrain scissor lifts can provide elevation of up to 50 feet and widths up to 10 feet. The machines are powered by diesel, gas, liquid propane, or dual fuel.

12. Pneumatic scissor lifts use air pressure as their lifting mechanism. Compared to traditional lifts, this lift does not emit hazardous fumes or by-products into the environment, making it a more sustainable option for companies looking to minimize their carbon footprint.

13. Since they require only air, pneumatic lifts can be used in almost any environment, including indoor facilities. However, they do not provide as much power as a rough terrain or diesel lift.

14. With the different types of scissor lifts available, what kind of lift would your company use to work at heights?

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