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January, 2009

Scissor Lift Safety

Scissor lifts are used as a safe way for workers in underground and surface operations to reach elevated work. Some recent incidents are a reminder there are hazards associated with the use of scissor lifts.
Wherever there is an elevated work task there is always the presence of fall hazards. With the scissor lift the risk of falling is likely if the lift were to suddenly tilt or fall over. Between 2001 and 2006 there were 48 incidents in the mining and aggregate sectors involving scissor lifts. These incidents resulted in medical aid and lost time.
The risk of the lift overturning can depend on the grounds condition and the use of the stabilizer jacks or outriggers. Water can affect the stability of the ground by creating mud. Other common ground materials such as clay, sand, loose rock and so on could also decrease the lifts stability.
The scissor lift may be hazardous if it is not properly maintained and used. Loads should be properly balanced and distributed based on manufacturers specifications. Uneven loads can increase the possibility of overturning since there is more weight being placed on one side of the lift. Any damage or severe wear and tear on the equipment could lead to injury or fatalities and should be reported immediately.

Prevention
Perform a risk assessment on all new equipment.
Develop safe work procedures based on manufacturers recommendations.
Follow manufacturers recommendations for maintenance.
Conduct an inspection program based on manufacturers recommendations that include daily and periodic checks and non-destructive testing of the lift mechanism.
Provide operator training and refresher training as required.
Enforce procedures and safe work habits conduct job observations.
Examine and test the equipment as outlined in the Regulation 854, Section 188. This should be done by a competent person.

Regulation 854, Mines and Mining Plants: Section 188 (Man lifts), Section 191 (Defects in elevators, etc.), Section 192(Lifting Devices).

CAN/CSA B354.2-01 Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms

Technical Report: Guideline for the Non-Destructive Testing of In-Service Scissor Lifts, 2001, MASHA

For more information or resources, please contact your MASHA field consultant.

This bulletin is prepared and distributed with the permission of the company which submitted the report to MASHA. The company has agreed to share the information in order to help prevent fatalities and serious injuries in the mining industry.