Working at height can be dangerous, with the risk of falls from height always inherent. Fortunately, a variety of access equipment exists to ensure people can work safely from any site. Scissor lifts are one such type of equipment.

As the name suggests, these elevating work platforms use a scissor-like mechanism to lift users along with any materials and tools that they need to work with to the desired work heights. Because every job is different, there are different types and configurations of scissor lifts to suit the needs of every job. 

Here's what to know before deciding to use a scissor lift for your job.  

Scissor lifts are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

While all types of access equipment can be used to perform work at height, not all of the equipment can be used both indoors and outdoors. Owing to their mobility, scissor lifts can be used to perform work within a building, as well as outside it. Their foldable design allows for easy access to building interiors through doors and other openings.

Plus, zero-emission electric models exist to allow for the safe operation of scissor lifts inside buildings.

Scissor lifts can safely hold multiple crew members.

In applications where there is a need to get work done quickly and efficiently, scissor lifts are a preferred option over ladders, which can only accommodate one worker at a time. These access equipment provide a large working platform that allows multiple people to work simultaneously. 

Scissor lifts can be used in areas with rough terrains.

Scissor lifts are suitable machines for use on sites with hard, flat surfaces. However, this doesn't mean they can't be used in job sites with rough terrain or uneven flooring. Certain types of scissor lifts are ruggedly built and have 4WD capabilities to allow for their safe operation in job sites without even bases.

Scissor lifts have maximum load capacity.

Each scissor lift has a maximum load limit that must not be exceeded to avoid accidents in the workplace. Exceeding the maximum weight limit that a certain type of scissor lift is rated for may result in the equipment tipping over or collapsing.

As you can see above, scissor lifts are a versatile choice of equipment for performing work at height. However, they don't come cheap. If you don't have the funds necessary to purchase a scissor lift for your job, you can always consider hiring one instead.

For more information, contact a scissor lift hire service today

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