Scissor lift is a machine designed to move personnel and equipment in a vertical direction. This elevator can handle any utility that usually requires a ladder, tower or scaffolding. The scissor lift allows operators to complete the same tasks quickly and safely, without the hassle of setting up other equipment such as scaffolding or tower, and without the dangerous instability of the ladder.
Although the chance of a fall cannot be completely eliminated when you work at any height, the scissor lift provides a secure saddle or a firm base surrounded by cable and rail. The work platform of the scissor lift provides a solid foundation and inviolable protection for all types of work that takes place at low and medium heights.
Sometimes you will hear about the scissor lift referred to by one of these names for its technical classification:
- Mobile, elevated work platform (MEWP)
- Aerial work platform (AWP)
- Elevated work platform (EWP)
The Scissor lift is usually made of steel and consists of a platform and rails supported by a beam or bar-style struts. The way the struts are joined together makes them look like multiple sets of attached scissor blades, and when they are operated, they make an open-close movement like scissors. The X shape actually has a technical name called pontograph, and the hydraulic mechanisms elevate and direct the scissor action.
Scissor lift usually extends vertically 10-60ft depending on the model, although there are models that move upwards. Some scissors lift can be moved forward and backward. Always review your elevator user manual to check safety precautions for moving elevators when extended.
Other types of aerial lifts, i.e. an open or telescopic lift, reach higher heights than standard scissor lifts, but the scissor lift carries more weight and provides a functional work platform. Scissors lift have an advantage over other options with their relatively small storage size.
Some Scissor lifts sit on four wheels, while other models have exteriors that go into or around the surrounding ground to add stability. Some scissor lifts run on electricity and / or batteries, while others carry gas, diesel or other types of fuel.
Some Scissor Lift machines are made to operate indoors, like those used for building maintenance or warehousing, while rough-terrain scissor lifts (RTS) can stand up to outdoor conditions and challenging paths. Some have non-marking tires while others do not. With many options within the same class of MEWP, the first step toward acquiring or renting a scissor lift is to consider what kind of work it will do and in what environments.
Many scissor lift models produce no emissions and operate at a low noise level.
