Scissor lifts are commonly used in warehouses and on construction sites. This is due in large part to their ability to tackle a variety of jobs, both big and small.
A scissor lift provides a safe and secure enclosure, connected to a rising platform, which allows you to complete various tasks at high elevations.
Scissor lifts vary by application, fuel type, and size. There are five primary types of scissor lifts: Hydraulic, Electric, Diesel, Pneumatic, and Rough Terrain .
As far as aerial platform machines are concerned, electric scissor lists are among the most popular. Without the use of fuel, you can expect these lifts to operate in a nearly silent manner. That’s just one of the reasons why it’s a commonly used warehouse scissor lift.
Also, since electric scissor lifts are smaller than many other types, they’re easier to use in compact indoor spaces1.
A rough terrain scissor lift is exactly what it sounds like. It’s designed for outdoor use where access to the job site is less than ideal. Furthermore, these scissor lifts are designed to work on slopes and in inclement weather.
Compared to the other types of lifts on this list, rough terrain machines have heavier duty tires and a higher weight capacity. Most of these lifts are powered by liquid propane, gas, or diesel fuel2.
There are five factors to consider when choosing a scissor lift:
Choosing the right scissor lift is imperative to completing your project in a safe, secure, and efficient manner. Fortunately, with five distinct types of scissor lifts to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding the right one.
Sometimes, a small platform for one individual is all you need. But at other times, you may require a scissor lift that can move several workers and their equipment into position.
Platform size varies from one type of scissor lift to the next, so have a clear idea of exactly what you need to safely complete the job.
This goes along with platform size. You need to answer two questions:
Once you answer the second question, you can make a better decision as to which type of scissor lift will work best.
Remember, it’s never a good idea to attempt to lift more weight than suggested by the manufacturer3.
Some scissor lifts are best for indoor use, while others are designed with outdoor projects in mind.
For example, if you’re working in a warehouse setting, an electric scissor lift is a common choice. Its compact size allows you to navigate tight spaces and its electric power is nearly silent.
For outdoor use, a rough terrain or diesel scissor lift are better options. These give you the power and features you need to take on less than ideal conditions.
Before choosing a scissor lift, have a clear idea of how high you need it to reach. This varies from one type to the next, as well as from machine to machine within each category. For instance, one diesel scissor lift may not have the same lift height as another.
Tip: Don’t attempt to stand on an object or use a ladder on a scissor lift. If your lift doesn’t have enough height, choose a different machine for the task.
How you load a scissor lift could affect your decision. Generally, your loading options include:
The load method is most important if you plan on loading and unloading objects onto the platform.
If a scissor lifting machine is what you need to safely complete a job at height, choose from one of the five types above while considering all applicable factors.
It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking a construction lift, warehouse scissor lift, or a machine for another use, there’s a good chance that there’s one that can provide the features you’re seeking.
Most scissor lifts you’ll find are powered either by an electric battery or by diesel. Both power sources have benefits and drawbacks, and they’re not necessarily suitable for the same kinds of work. Electric scissor lifts are best used indoors, where they don’t risk producing dangerous emissions and where they don’t have to expend valuable energy fighting against the terrain.
Diesel-powered scissor lifts, on the other hand, are perfectly suited to outdoor work. Because there’s less downtime when refueling, you don’t have to worry about conserving energy on the job site or running out of juice. These lifts do produce emissions that shouldn’t be breathed in high concentration, and they can be quite loud, so outdoor use is recommended2.
It’s a simple rule of physics that lifting more weight necessitates more energy, and this holds just as true for scissor lifts. Generally, the higher a scissor lift’s capacity, the more hardware it takes to support that capacity and the more fuel the lift burns even when not lifting a full load.
The closer a lift gets to its maximum capacity, the harder it will need to work to lift. This means that you could notice performance dropping as your lift gets closer to capacity. It may take longer for the lift to fully deploy, too4.
While you may be tempted to pick a lift with a larger capacity than you need, that’s likely not the best solution. Such a lift will cost more and be more demanding without offering you extra benefits. It’s crucial to calculate your average and maximum loads and choose a lift that meets but doesn’t drastically exceed your needs.
Scissor lifts employ several safety features to help protect their operators and occupants. Perhaps the most important feature is the lift’s advertised load limits. These limits outline how much it is safe to carry at certain heights and how that number changes if you’re not working on perfectly even flooring. Paying close attention to these load limits helps avoid tip-overs and the resulting injuries.
It’s also important to use the lift’s guardrails properly. Ensure that the doors into the platform are closed and locked before operation and keep them locked during the process. This simple step can save lives. For extra protection, occupants should also wear a personal fall arrest system. These typically include a harness and tether securely fastened to the platform. In the case of an accident, this setup safely stops an operator’s fall5.
The baseline load capacity of a scissor lift is calculated assuming that the lift is extending straight up in a controlled environment and on a flat surface. If one of these factors stops being true, the stability of the scissor lift can be compromised. On uneven terrain, scissor lifts may still be used safely, but operators should consult with the owner’s manual to ascertain any changes to the lift’s maximum capacities and safety best practices.
When a lift is extended outdoors, the platform may experience wind conditions that are drastically different than those on the ground. This can put the lift at high risk of tipping over. If it’s gusty or windy outside, scissor lift operation beyond a few feet should be suspended. It’s also important to avoid areas with drastic slopes and drop-offs, as these can lead to serious problems if not approached carefully6.
The best practices for scissor lift maintenance vary based on the specific model of lift in question, and owners should always consult with the owner’s manual for specific information. Generally, scissor lifts should be inspected daily or before each shift starts. A maintenance checklist can help operators identify any potential issues, like leaks, structural compromises, or missing parts.
All fluids should be checked and changed regularly, and tires should be replaced when wear starts to show. Any missing or loose parts should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible, and lifts should receive comprehensive inspections about every 90 days and full maintenance at least once a year7.
The specific training and certifications needed to operate a scissor lift will vary by state and locality. You can find the specific federal requirements by visiting OSHA’s website. Most courses involve classroom training and hands-on training, and trainees need to demonstrate an understanding of best practices for safe operation and prove their ability to operate the machinery in person.
