The guide to operating scissor lifts helps operators work safely and know how to handle and rectify issues when they arise. Proper operation of scissor lifts will help minimize equipment damage and maintain workplace safety.
Scissor lifts are essential equipment in factory construction, mechanical and electrical (M&E) work, and fire protection system installation. However, improper operation can not only damage the equipment but also compromise workplace safety.
With experience supplying equipment for hundreds of large projects, MLC Rental presents to our customers the most technical and safe operating procedures for scissor lifts.
To understand how to operate scissor lifts, we need to know the components of the scissor lift and how it operates. So how can we learn this? The following article will help you understand easily!
Structure of the scissor lift
The scissor lift consists of three main components:
- The lower body containing the motor, operating mechanism, and counterweight of the lift
- The lifting frame (body of the lift)
- The working platform (upper body)
The main components of the scissor lift include 9 parts that need to be clearly understood:
- Working platform
- Control box on the working platform
- Extension platform
- X-shaped lifting arms
- Lifting cylinder
- Battery compartments
- Control box below
- Stabilizing legs
- Wheels, electric motor
The lower body of the electric scissor lift will include a battery mounted on both sides. The electric motor for movement, microcontroller box, stabilizing leg system, and battery charger.
Safe operating procedures for scissor lifts
Purpose and scope of application
Purpose: To ensure absolute safety for people and equipment during operation, minimizing the risk of accidents and property damage. Scope: Applies to all technical staff of MLC Rental and customers renting and using scissor lift equipment.
Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Operators are REQUIRED to be fully equipped:
- Safety helmet: Properly fastened
- Safety shoes: Puncture-resistant, slip-resistant
- Safety harness: Full body or half body, attached to the designated anchor point on the working platform.
- Clothing: Protective clothing, reflective (if working at night/ in low light).
Procedure for inspecting the scissor lift before operation
Before each work shift, the operator must spend 5 minutes checking the following items:
Visual inspection:
- No hydraulic oil or acid water leaks under the vehicle
- Tires are not severely cracked, no nails/sharp objects. Wheel bolts are tight
- The scissor structure is straight, not deformed, with all safety pins in place.
Power source inspection:
- Battery level (for electric vehicles) or fuel (for engine vehicles) must be sufficient for the work shift.
- Electrical cables are securely connected, with no exposed wires
Inspecting the working platform
- The platform is clean, free of grease
- Entrance/exit doors automatically close/lock safely
- Railings are secure
- Operating manuals must be available on the vehicle
Detailed steps for operating the scissor lift
Step 1: Start the system
- At the controller under the vehicle: Turn the key to “Platform” mode to control from the platform.
- Ensure the emergency stop button on the ground is in the Open position (turn clockwise).
- The operator goes up to the platform, fastens the safety harness, closes the cage door
- Turn the Emergency Stop button on the control panel to power the system
Step 2: Move the scissor lift
- On the control panel, press the drive mode selection button – Wheel/steering wheel icon
- Press and hold the safety trigger at the front of the control panel
- Slowly push the control panel forward to GO or pull back to REVERSE
- Use the two buttons on the top of the control panel to steer Left/Right
Note: When the platform is raised high, the vehicle will automatically switch to “Turtle Speed” mode to ensure safety.
Step 3: Raise/lower the working platform
- Observe the space above, ensuring there are no obstructions such as ceilings, scaffolding, or electrical wires.
- On the control panel, press the button to select the Lift mode with the up and down arrow icon
- Press and hold the safety trigger
- Push the control panel back to lift it up, pull it back to lower it down.
Warning: Absolutely do not climb on the railing or use ladders/scaffolding on the working floor to increase height.
Step 4: End of work shift
- Lower the platform to the lowest position
- Press the Emergency Stop button to cut off power
- Turn the key under the vehicle to the OFF position and remove the key (to prevent unauthorized use)
- Plug in the charger (for electric vehicles) in the designated area
Battery charging regulations for electric scissor lifts
- Only charge the battery in a well-ventilated, dry area, avoiding sparks
- Use the correct power source and standard charging cable according to the vehicle
- Standard charging time is 8 – 10 hours (it is recommended to charge overnight)
- Absolutely do not unplug the charger when the battery is not full (except in emergencies) to protect the battery life.
- Check the water level in the battery regularly once a week (add distilled water if necessary – Contact MLC Rental technical support for guidance)
Emergency troubleshooting for scissor lifts
In case the vehicle has a system error, runs out of battery, or cannot be lowered using the control:
- Stay calm, signal a warning to people below
- The support person below should locate the emergency pressure relief valve, usually a red pull cord or a knob on the hydraulic cylinder.
- Pull and hold the pressure relief valve to lower the platform slowly
- Hang a sign “UNDER REPAIR – NO OPERATION” and contact the technical department for quick troubleshooting.
Technical support information for scissor lifts when needed
- Hotline: 0822 486 586
- Email: info@mlcrental.com.vn
- Website: www.mlcrental.com.vn
We are committed to accompanying the safety and progress of our customers!