Scissor Lift Safety Operation and Maintenance Guide

As a widely used mobile device in construction, industrial maintenance, and aerial work, the safe operation and proper maintenance of scissor lift are directly related to equipment longevity and personnel safety. Based on global industry standards, this article summarizes key safety operation and maintenance points to provide scientific guidance for industry professionals.

I. Safety Operation Standards

1. Pre-Operation Inspection System

• Equipment Condition Check: A systematic inspection must be conducted, including verifying the integrity of the scissor structure (checking for cracks/deformation), maintaining proper hydraulic oil levels (ensuring appropriate levels and clean oil), confirming the integrity of electrical wiring (eliminating damage/looseness), and ensuring tire condition (proper inflation and no bulging). The guardrail height must be at least 0.5 meters above the standing personnel, and the limit switch must function correctly.

• Site Risk Assessment: The ground must meet load-bearing strength requirements. Indoor operations require the removal of oil spills and standing water, while outdoor operations must avoid soft ground. A safety distance of at least 0.7 meters must be maintained around the lift, especially near overhead power lines below 10kV. Obstacles must be cleared within the operating radius to ensure sufficient lifting space.

• Operator Qualification Verification: Operators must hold valid certification and be familiar with emergency braking and abnormal situation handling procedures. Untrained personnel are strictly prohibited from operating the equipment.

2. Key Operational Controls

• Load Management: Strictly follow the rated parameters specified on the nameplate. Small lifts have a maximum capacity of 1-2 persons. Loads must be evenly distributed and secured. Extended sections must not bear heavy objects and should not exceed twice the original length.

• Dynamic Operation Standards: Compound movements are strictly prohibited during lifting, meaning lifting and moving cannot occur simultaneously. The speed must comply with the equipment's specified limits (usually below 0.8m/s). Personnel must wear a three-point safety harness throughout the operation, and chin straps on helmets must be securely fastened.

• Environmental Monitoring: During lifting, continuously monitor the hydraulic system for abnormal noises or leaks. A minimum buffer space of 30 cm must be maintained between the platform and obstacles. Outdoor operations must be stopped immediately in winds of force 6 or above.

II. Maintenance and Servicing Guidelines

1. Routine Maintenance Standards

• Cleaning Procedures: After operation, remove oil stains and dust. Hydraulic system connectors should be protected with anti-rust spray, and electrical components should be wiped with a dry cloth to prevent water ingress.

• Function Testing: The scissor lift's smooth movement must be tested weekly by performing three full-range lifting cycles to verify reset accuracy. The hydraulic system’s sealing performance must be tested monthly, with a static pressure test ensuring pressure drop remains below 5% after 15 minutes.

• Wear Component Replacement: Tires must be replaced when tread depth is below 1.6mm. Hydraulic oil should be changed every 500 hours or when contaminated. Filters should be maintained at 200-hour intervals.

2. Professional Maintenance Requirements

• Quarterly Deep Inspection: A laser level must be used to calibrate platform tilt, ensuring an error of less than 1°. The hydraulic system must undergo a 25% overload test, but the duration should not exceed 10 seconds.

• Annual Safety Review: A third-party institution should inspect structural welds using 100% penetration testing. The electrical system's insulation resistance should exceed 1MΩ.

• Extreme Environment Protection: During the rainy season, electrical moisture-proof inspections should be conducted more frequently. In low-temperature regions, -30°C hydraulic oil should be used. In dusty environments, air filters should be installed.

III. Equipment Selection and Application

1. Typical Application Scenarios

• Construction Industry: Exterior wall painting, glass curtain wall installation (requires fall protection net)

• Industrial Maintenance: Replacement of factory lighting systems, ventilation duct inspections

• Specialized Operations: Aerial camera positioning for film shooting (requires anti-static treatment)

• By implementing standardized operating procedures and a scientific maintenance system, scissor lift accident rates can be reduced by 76% (OSHA 2022 statistics). It is recommended that companies establish a "one machine, one file" management system, integrating usage logs and maintenance records for full life-cycle control to ensure aerial work safety.

2. Model Selection Principles

• Common models cover lifting heights from 4 to 18 meters. Small scissor lifts with a capacity of less than 300kg are suitable for warehouse maintenance, while large models with a capacity of over 320kg meet steel structure installation requirements. Diesel-powered models are preferred for outdoor projects, while electric silent models are recommended for precision work environments.

• If your project requires an aerial work platform, TDER offers a range of scissor lifts to meet your needs. TDER scissor lifts range from 4 meters to 18 meters in length and come in indoor, outdoor, electric, and diesel options. Whether you are looking for a zero-emission indoor lift or a heavy-duty model capable of handling rough terrain, TDER scissor lifts can help you get the job done.