Working Safely with Scissor Lifts

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Chapter: Work At Height  

Working Safely with Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts provide a safe and reliable platform for workers to perform job tasks when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. When not used properly, scissor lifts can present a serious hazard to workers. Employers are responsible for keeping workers safe. This Hazard Alert highlights specific hazards present in workplaces where scissor lifts are used and controls employers must implement to prevent injuries or fatalities.

Scissor lifts are work platforms used to safely move workers vertically and to different locations in a variety of industries including construction, retail, entertainment and manufacturing. Scissor lifts are different from aerial lifts because the lifting mechanism moves the work platform straight up and down using crossed beams functioning in a scissor-like fashion. Although scissor lifts present hazards similar to scaffolding when extended and stationary, using scissor lifts safely depends on considering equipment capabilities, limitations and safe practices.

Over the period as use of scissor lifts are increased the incidents & injuries resulting from a variety of incidents involving scissor lifts are also reporting at high numbers i.e. fall from height, resulting  fatalities and injuries. Investigations found that most injuries and fatalities involving scissor lifts were the result of employers not addressing:

• Fall Protection
• Stabilization
• Positioning

Preventive Action for Safe Use Scissor Lifts

• 
  Employers need to assess the worksite to identify all possible hazards in order to select the appropriate equipment for the task. 
• Employers who use scissor lifts need to evaluate and implement effective controls that address fall protection, stabilization and positioning. 
• Only trained workers should be allowed to use scissor lifts, and employers should make sure that those workers show that they can use a scissor lift properly. 
• Safe scissor lift use includes properly maintaining the equipment, following the manufacturer’s instructions, providing workers training and needed personal protective equipment (PPE), and implementing safe work practices.

Fall Protection

Scissor lifts must have guardrails installed to prevent workers from falling.

Employers should train workers to:

• Check to see that a guardrail system is in placebefore working on the scissor lift.
• Only stand on the work platform; never stand onthe guardrails.
• Keep work within easy reach to avoid leaning awayfrom the scissor lift.

Stabilization

Employers should ensure that scissor lifts are stable and will not tip over or collapse. Some safe work practices to ensure safe, stable conditions for scissor lift use include:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe movement—this usually rules out moving the lift in an elevated position.
• Isolate the scissor lift or implement traffic control measures to ensure that other equipment cannot contact the scissor lift.
• Select work locations with firm, level surfaces away from hazards that can cause instability (e.g., drop-offs, holes, slopes, bumps, ground obstructions, or debris).
• Use the scissor lift outside only when weather conditions are good. Scissor lifts rated for outdoor use are generally limited to wind speeds below 28 miles per hour.

Although rare, the collapse of scissor lifts can be prevented if employers:

• Ensure that safety systems designed to stop collapsing are maintained and not bypassed.
• Never allow the weight on the work platform to exceed the manufacturer’s load rating.
• Never allow equipment other than the scissor mechanism to be used to raise the work platform (e.g., using a forklift to lift the work platform).
• Keep the lift from being struck by other moving equipment on the worksite.

Positioning

Positioning the scissor lift to avoid crushing or electrocution hazards is important for safe use.

Crushing hazards are present in workplaces using scissor lifts and may expose workers nearby, even those not working on the scissor lift.

Scissor lifts present crushing hazards similar to vehicles and other mobile equipment at worksites.

Employers should train workers to be watchful when:

• A moving scissor lift is near a fixed object.
• A moving vehicle and the scissor lift are operating closely.
• The scissor lift passes under a fixed object, such as a door frame or a support beam.

Positioning the scissor lift to avoid electrocution, arc flash, and thermal burns is important for safely using scissor lifts near energized power lines. Since electricity can arc or jump from the power line to the scissor lift or worker, electrocution can occur even if neither the scissor lift nor the worker touches the power line.

Employers should use the following work practices to ensure that scissor lifts are safely positioned:

Implement traffic control measures around the scissor lift to prevent other workers or vehicles from getting too close.

• Use ground guides when operating or moving the scissor lift around the workplace.
• Select work locations that do not approach electrical power sources (e.g., power lines, transformers) by at least 10 feet and that do not pose other overhead hazards (e.g., other utilities, branches, overhangs, etc.).
• If the job task requires work near an electrical source, ensure that the worker is qualified and has received the required electrical training. 

Maintaining Scissor Lifts

Employers must regularly maintain scissor lifts to ensure that they are safe to use (e.g., prevent the lifting mechanism from collapsing). 

Manufacturer’s maintenance and inspection instructions will generally include how to:

• Test and inspect controls and components before each use.
• Ensure that guardrail systems are in good working condition.
• Verify that brakes once set will hold the scissor lift in position.

Training Workers

Employers must provide workers training on hazards, including how to work safely with or near scissor lifts.

Training must, at a minimum, include:

• Manufacturer’s instructions for operating the scissor lift vertically and while in transit.
• How to handle materials on the scissor lift, including weight limits.
• Other worksite hazards workers may encounter when working on a scissor lift (e.g., contact with electrical wires).
• Reporting any equipment defects or maintenance needs.

WAH :- Precautions While Welding In Height

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Chapter :- Work At Height 

Precautions While Welding In Height

Welding at height presents additional risks compared to welding on the ground, and it’s crucial to take specific precautions to ensure safety. 

Here are the key precautions:

1. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): 
• Wear a full-body harness attached to a secure anchor point.
• Use helmets, gloves, welding masks, and flame-resistant clothing to protect against burns and sparks.
• Use safety goggles or face shields to protect against falling debris or sparks.
2. Proper Scaffolding or Platforms:
• Ensure scaffolding or work platforms are stable, secure, and meet safety standards.
• Install guardrails and toe boards on scaffolding to prevent falls.
• Use ladders or lifts that are properly secured and rated for the work being performed.
3. Fall Protection Systems:
• Always use fall arrest systems, such as lanyards or retractable lifelines, that are appropriate for the height and conditions.
• Ensure all fall protection equipment is regularly inspected and properly maintained.
4. Fire Safety Measures:
• Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach.
• Remove any flammable materials from the work area or cover them with fire-resistant materials.
• Be aware of the potential for sparks or hot materials to fall to lower levels, and take precautions to prevent fires below.
5. Weather Conditions:
• Avoid welding in adverse weather conditions, such as high winds, rain, or lightning, which can increase the risk of accidents.
• Be cautious of slippery surfaces caused by rain or ice.
6. Safe Handling of Equipment:
• Secure welding cables and equipment to prevent them from falling or becoming entangled.
• Ensure that power sources and gas cylinders are placed on stable surfaces and are secured.
7. Clear Communication:
• Establish clear communication with other workers, especially those working below.
• Use radios or hand signals to maintain communication when visibility is limited.
8. Pre-Work Inspection:
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the work area, scaffolding, and equipment before starting.
• Check for any structural weaknesses or potential hazards.
9. Emergency Preparedness:
• Ensure there is an emergency rescue plan in place for workers at height.
• Workers should be trained in the use of rescue equipment and first aid.
10. Training and Competency:
• Only trained and competent personnel should perform welding at height.
• Regularly update training on safety procedures and equipment use.

Taking these precautions helps to minimize the risks associated with welding at height and ensures a safer work environment

WAH :- Painter Safety

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Chapter :- Work At Height 

PAINTER SAFETY

Painter Safety

Painters apply coatings and paint to interior and exterior building surfaces with a variety of job sites, chemical use, and physical and ergonomic demands.

A lot of painting work is done from heights. Inspect ladders daily, set them properly, and work from ladders safely. Make sure a qualified person properly installed your scaffolding. Don’t use makeshift ladders or scaffolds that could fail and cause a fall. Know when to use fall protection and how to use it properly.

Read the material safety data sheet (MSDS) to learn about the chemicals in paints and surface preparation materials you use. Even though a material may be water-based and labeled “green,” it can still contain hazardous ingredients. Good ventilation protects you from paint fumes. Spray booths, fans, open doors, and windows can move fresh air into your workspace.

Choose and wear proper personal protective equipment. Goggles or safety glasses protect your eyes from paint splashes during application and mixing. Gloves and coveralls protect your skin from absorbing chemicals. Wear a respirator to protect yourself from dusts, spray paint droplets, and the fumes from solvents and paints.

Painter Safety

Preparing surfaces by sanding and cleaning can expose you to dust. Get trained in the building hazards of asbestos, mold, and lead. Make sure that trained workers clean up these hazards before you disturb them and make them airborne. Practice good hygiene by washing up during and after work. Keep your work clothes and shoes separate from your family to prevent cross-contamination at home.

Painting is a physical job, so maintain your overall health and fitness. Choose the correct tools for your job task. Use tool handles long enough to prevent you from over-reaching. Handles should be soft, non-slip, and fit your hand. Try different models until you get a comfortable fit.

Painting involves repetitive movements and awkward positions. Rotate your job tasks during the day and take rest breaks to prevent fatigue. Use proper lifting techniques to protect your back. Wear comfortable work boots with non-slip soles that will support your feet as you stand all day.

WAH : Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

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Chapter :- Work At Height 

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

The term Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) covers pedestrian controlled self propelled and power operated mobile elevating work and access platforms.

The MEWP is designed to provide a temporary working platform which can be easily moved from one location to another. It is particularly suitable for short duration work where the use of a ladder would be unsafe and the erection of scaffolding would be time consuming and impracticable.

The main hazards associated with the use of mobile elevating work platforms include:

• Collision with another vehicle
• Parts of the machine encroaching onto a traffic lane
• Proximity of overhead cables
• Falls of persons or materials
• Persons being caught or trapped in moving parts or "nip" points
• Overturning
• Incorrect use

When using an MEWP it is important that you adopt the following precautions:-

• Ensure that you have seen the manufacturer's records regarding inspection, maintenance and servicing and that it is carried out.
• Check that all the relevant test certificates and duty charts are provided with the machine.
• Ensure that before you operate the machine you are trained; this is normally carried out by the supplier and ensure that you are familiar with the manufacturer's operating manual.
• Ensure the safe working load (SWL), the safe wind speed and safe gradient are displayed on the machine, and adhered to.
• Ensure the ground is level, firm and the machine is not over any drain, basement, etc. Where rough terrain equipment is used, the manufacturer's requirements on ground conditions must be followed.
• Ensure you fully deploy the outriggers / stabilizers.
  
• Never travel with the platform occupied or boom extended, unless specified by the manufacturers.
• Ensure when you are working adjacent to roadways, railways or other operations / obstructions that you erect barriers, cones, lights, etc.
• Ensure if working adjacent to overhead power lines that you follow the permit to work provided.
• Ensure that you wear a safety harness and it is attached to the platform. This is required because most incidents involve people being tipped out.
• Ensure you wear other protective clothing i.e. safety helmets, safety shoes, etc.
• Check that all moving parts are properly guarded.
• Only use the platform and boom for the work for which it was intended.

Most Important when not in use, machines should be at ground level and immobilized

WAH : Working at Elevations.

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Chapter :- Work At Height 

Working at Elevations

Injuries from falls are one of the most common and severe workplace accidents. Employees
must understand how to identify fall hazards and the ways they can protect themselves.

Areas Where Fall Hazards Exist:
Any height greater than 4 feet is considered a hazard and must be protected. This includes:

• 

  
  

  Roofs
• Floor Openings 
• Loading Docks 
• Work Platforms

Ways to Protect Employees from Fall Hazards:

The most effective way to protect employees from falls is by eliminating the hazard. Passive
systems such as guardrails and covers remove the employee’s exposure to the hazard.

	Passive System	Administrative Controls	Active Systems
	Guardrails Covers	Boundary Lines Signs / Access Control	Fall Arrest Systems Positioning Systems
Protection Level	Best	Fair	Fair
Training Needed	Low	High	High
Maintenance	Low	Medium	High
Employee Effort	Low	High	High

Fall protection equipment must be used and cared for properly:

Guardrails-

• Always work within the confines of the guardrail
• Must meet design requirements (spacing, height, etc.)

Floor Hole/Opening Covers-

• Must support the intended load or at least 182 Kg (400 lbs). {9072 Kg (20,000 lbs). if vehicle traffic}
• Must lay even with the floor; protruding covers create a tripping hazard

Boundary Lines System-

• Must be erected 6 feet from the edge of the roof or fall hazard.
• Only used in certain roofing activities.
• Must be 34 inches high and visible in all weather conditions

Safe Work Distances-

• Minimum distance of 15 feet to the edge – travel within 15 feet will require fall protection
• Pathway must be clearly marked and employees need to be trained
• This is a best management practice

Personal Fall Arrest System-

• Inspect lanyard, harness, rings and other components before each use
• Inspect anchors annually and have them tested every 10 years
• Ensure the lanyard is the correct length for the height you will be working at
• Must train employees on how to use, inspect and maintain fall arrest equipment
• Replace equipment that is damaged or subjected to loads from a fall

WAH: Working at height

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Chapter :- Work At Height 

Working at height

 

Working at height remains one of the biggest causes of fatalities and major injuries. Common cases include falls from ladders and through fragile roofs.  

Work at height means work in any place, including at or below ground level (for example in underground workings), where a person could fall a distance liable to cause injury.

This section shows how employers can take simple, practical measures to reduce the risk of any of their workers falling while working at height.

Engineering control for work at height

Engineering controls for work at height are safety measures designed to eliminate or reduce the risks of falls. They focus on modifying the work environment or equipment to minimize hazards. Here are some common engineering controls for work at height:

1. Guardrails and Barriers: Installing fixed guardrails or barriers around the edges of platforms, roofs, or scaffolds helps prevent falls.
2. Scaffolding: Properly erected and stable scaffolding provides safe platforms for workers to perform tasks at height.
3. Aerial Lifts and Elevated Platforms: Using aerial lifts, boom lifts, or elevated platforms allows workers to perform tasks at height safely, with guardrails to protect them from falls.
4. Work Platforms: Custom work platforms, such as those with toe boards or edge protection, are designed to provide secure footing and prevent falls.
5. Safety Net Systems: Installing safety nets below work areas can help catch workers or tools that might fall.
6. Fall Arrest Systems: Anchoring points and lifeline systems, which include harnesses and lanyards, ensure workers are protected if they fall.
7. Design Modifications: In some cases, designing structures with built-in safety features, such as walkways or access ladders with cages, reduces the risk of falls.
8. Roof Anchors: Fixed anchor points for fall protection systems on roofs allow workers to secure themselves when performing tasks at heights.

By implementing these engineering controls, the risk of falls and injuries while working at height can be significantly reduced.

What do I have to do?

You must make sure that all work at height is properly planned, supervised and carried out by people who are competent (someone who has the skills, knowledge and experience) to do the job. This must include the use of the right type of access equipment.

To prevent or minimize risk when planning for work at height, consider what needs to be done and take a sensible, risk-based approach to identify suitable precautions.

Control measures

There is a simple hierarchy of control measures (as described below) which you should follow to minimize the risk of a fall from height. The hierarchy should be followed systematically and only when one level is not reasonably practicable This means balancing the level of risk against the measures needed to control the risk in terms of money, time or trouble. The decision is weighted in favor of health and safety so that the measures are adopted unless they are grossly disproportionate. may the next level be considered.

Those in control of the work need to:

• Avoid work at height where they can
• Use work equipment to prevent falls where work at height cannot be avoided
• Where the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated, use work equipment to minimize the distance and consequences of a fall if one occurs
• Always consider measures that protect all those at risk, i.e. collective protection measures (scaffolds, nets, soft landing systems) before measures that only protect the individual, i.e. personal protection measures (a harness)

Dos and Don’ts of working at height

Do….

• Make sure the surface/access equipment in use is stable and strong enough to support the worker’s weight and that of any equipment. Any edge protection should be wide enough and strong enough to prevent a fall
• As much work as possible from the ground or partly from the ground, for example assemble structures on the ground and lift them into position with lifting equipment
• Take precautions when working on or near fragile surfaces, eg an asbestos cement roof, to prevent a fall or to mini mise the distance and consequences in the event of a fall
• Ensure workers can get safely to and from where they want to work at height and also consider emergency evacuation and rescue procedures
• Make sure everyone involved is competent to do the work they are responsible for, including those who plan and organize it
• Choose the most appropriate equipment for the type of work being done and how often it will be used
• Provide protection from falling objects
• Make sure equipment used for work at height is well maintained and inspected regularly

Don’t…

• Overload ladders – the person and anything they are taking up should not exceed the highest load stated on the ladder
• Overreach on ladders or stepladders – keep your belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both feet on the same rung throughout the task
• Use ladders or stepladders if the nature of the work is deemed to be ‘heavy’ or if the task will take longer than thirty minutes or so to complete
• Use ladders if workers cannot maintain three points of contact (hands and feet) at the working position. If this is not possible, consider an alternative safe system of work
• Let anyone who is not competent (someone who doesn’t have the skills, knowledge and experience to do the job) carry out work at height