Safety Tips for Using a Scissor Lift on a Slope or Incline

Operating a scissor lift on a slope or incline can be challenging and requires strict adherence to safety measures. These machines, known for their ability to lift workers and materials to elevated heights, are commonly used across various industries. However, when using a self-propelled scissor lift on uneven ground, taking appropriate safety precautions is crucial to prevent accidents. 

In this blog, we offer essential safety tips for using scissor lifts on slopes and inclines. These tips will help you stay safe while efficiently performing your job.

Types of Scissor Lifts Suited for Sloped Terrains

While standard scissor lifts are designed for flat, stable surfaces, some models can operate on uneven ground, thanks to their unique features.

Scissor Lifts with Stabilisers or Outriggers

Scissor lifts equipped with stabilisers or outriggers are specifically designed to enhance stability on inclines. These stabilisers extend from the base of the lift, providing additional support and reducing the risk of tipping over. Outriggers are particularly beneficial when the incline is significant, as they help maintain balance and keep the scissor lift secure during operation. Using outriggers or stabilisers is ideal when working on slightly uneven terrain, as it ensures that the lift remains stable while in use.

Track-Driven Scissor Lifts

Track-driven scissor lifts are another option for working on slopes. Unlike wheeled models, these Elevated Work Platforms use tracks, similar to those on a bulldozer, to maintain grip and stability on inclined surfaces. The tracks provide lower point pressure on slopes, making these lifts suitable for areas where the ground is loose or soft. This design allows the tracked scissor lift to navigate challenging terrains more effectively, ensuring smooth operation even on uneven ground.

7 Essential Safety Tips for Operating a Scissor Lift on a Slope or Incline

Using a scissor lift on a slope or incline requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are seven critical safety tips to ensure safe operation:

1. Conduct a Thorough Pre-Operational Inspection

Before using any Elevating Work Platform, it’s crucial to perform a pre-operational inspection. Check for any visible damage, such as cracks or worn-out parts, and ensure that all safety features, including emergency stops and alarms, are functioning correctly. Inspect the stabilisers, tracks, and tyres, ensuring they are in good condition. 

2. Assess the Slope Gradient

Understanding the slope gradient is key when working with a self-propelled scissor lift. Every lift has a maximum slope rating that it can safely operate on, typically specified by the manufacturer on the serial plate. Exceeding this limit can cause the lift to become unstable, increasing the risk of tipping. Ideally use a digital level to determine the degrees of the incline before positioning the lift, ensuring it is within the recommended range. All scissor lifts should alarm and cut out lift function when slope exceeds manufacturers specification. Testing scissor lifts prior to use is recommended.

3. Use Stabilisers and Engage Brakes

Engaging the stabilisers or outriggers is essential when operating a scissor lift on uneven ground. The stabilisers should be extended on firm ground to provide maximum support. Beware of underground excavation, and steep slopes where outriggers will require larger footing on level ground.  Slabs of hard wood or specifically designed plastic blocks spread the load but must be level to prevent outrigger or stabiliser from slipping off.

Additionally, ensure scissor lift is positioned so that the braked wheels are lifted from the ground last if using outriggers. Normally brakes are on the rear wheels, so reversing a scissor lift up a slope will help prevent the braked wheels lifting off the ground first. This precaution significantly reduces the risk of the lift moving unexpectedly down the slope.

4. Ensure Proper Load Distribution

Maintaining proper load distribution is critical when using a scissor lift on a slope. Unevenly distributed loads can cause the lift to tip or become unstable, especially when on an incline. This is particularly evident when using the scissor lift to carry large sheeting or glass close to side rails, ensure maximum capacity of the elevating work platform is not exceeded. 

Extension decks are load rated and as they protrude past the scissor lift wheels, decrease stability. Any load on the extension platform is to be kept to manufactures set limit.

Amount of persons on a scissor lift is calculated as part of the load and wind rating, then added to an approximate value of the tooling and materials to calculate safe working load. Keep within the prescribed amount to maintain stability, values are contained on the serial plate. 

5. Apply Safe Driving Techniques

When driving a self-propelled scissor lift on a slope, it’s important to use proper techniques to maintain control. Drive the lift slowly and avoid making sharp turns, as sudden movements can increase the risk of tipping. Always ascend and descend slopes straight on, rather than at an angle, to ensure stability. If possible, use a spotter to guide the lift and ensure a clear path during operation. The scissor lift is most unstable side to side and when elevated, avoid putting the scissor lift in a unstable condition.

6. Monitor Weather Conditions Closely

Weather conditions can significantly impact the safety of using a scissor lift on a slope. Rain and mud can create slippery surfaces, making it difficult for the lift to maintain traction. 

High winds can also cause the lift to sway and become unstable. Before starting any work, check the weather forecast and be prepared to postpone operations if conditions become unsafe. It’s always better to wait for suitable weather than to risk an accident.

Scissor lifts are rated for indoor use, most also have an outdoor rating which includes an allowance for wind, often reducing lift height and persons in platform. Ensure you are aware of any restrictions for using a scissor lift outdoors, and cautious of additional sail areas such as glass or panels attached to scissor lift.

7. Get Proper Training and Certification

Operating a scissor lift on slopes requires skill and knowledge, which makes proper training essential. Ensure that all operators are certified and understand how to handle the equipment safely. Training should include understanding the lift’s capabilities, how to use stabilisers effectively, and best practices for working on uneven ground. Well-trained operators are more likely to recognise potential hazards and take appropriate action to mitigate risks.

Conclusion

Working with a scissor lift on a slope or incline demands the right equipment and adherence to safety practices. To ensure a safe working environment, use scissor lifts equipped with stabilisers or tracks, conduct thorough inspections, and follow safe operating techniques. 

Always remember that understanding the limitations of your elevating work platform and making adjustments for inclines can prevent accidents and keep your team safe. Prioritising these safety tips will help you achieve efficient and secure operations, even when working on challenging terrain.

Are you looking for a self-propelled scissor lift? Contact us at 1300 272 111 today.