Lifting tables, are often called scissor lifts, as they have a scissor-like appearance of the metal structure that elevates a work or access platform above the base unit. The higher the access platform rises the wider the scissor mechanism opens, the raising and lowering of the platform taking on a distinct concertina look.
In some industries, they are referred to as MEWPs or Mobile Elevated Work Platforms but to be honest, most of us simply call them lifting tables!
Varying in size and features, these personnel lifts are able to lift to a person/people or heavy materials several meters above the ground safely, efficiently and some even have the ability to manoeuvre a few feet backwards and forwards, which can be very useful.
Whether of lightweight or heavy-duty construction there is a wide range of scissor lifts to choose from, mainly for use in industrial and professional markets. The use of well maintained, quality equipment of this type in difficult and dangerous working environments is essential when taking into account compliance with health and safety regulations.
Suppliers and manufacturers include National Lift Equipment, Saxon Lifts, Terex, Strato-Lift, Snorkel, Mec, Condor and Grove, all companies that stock a wide range of equipment associated with scissor lifts.
Scissor Lifts Features
Efficient, rugged heavy duty lift table units have unlimited applications they reduce labor cost by simplifying methods of sheet feeding, and other industrial handling operation where dependability and service are a must.
Numerous options, such as conveyors, turn tops, safety skirts, portability units and many others are available. Special arrangements (multiple units in tandem wide or long) are manufactured to meet specific requirements.
How to select the right scissor lift model proper application is essential to getting the job done. The following points will help you in determining the best lift for your application.
VERTICAL TRAVEL
Determine the vertical travel required for your requirements.
LIFT CAPACITIES, SIDE/END LOADING CAPACITIES
The lifting capacity is the gross total weight that the table is required to lift. The side/end load capacities is the amount of static load that can be put over the edge of the platform when the lift is in its filly raised position. Rolling loads require a 33% derating in the side/end capacities.
PLATFORM SIZE
Determine the platform size required. Depending on the vertical travel, and the lifting capacity, the platform sizes vary. Other factors affecting platform sizes are pit installation, mounting of accessories like bellows, roller shades.
Common Uses Of Personnel Lifts
Pretty much every industry all over the world use these type of lifts but they are most commonly used in industries like transportation, distribution, metal working/refining, mining, forestry/lumber, construction and warehousing. To name just a few!
Scissor lifts can be used for:
- Docking operations
- Materials positioning
- Vehicle loading
- Load positioning
- Maintenance
- Construction
- Mobility impaired access
Reasons for Investing in Quality Lifting Tables
Quality lifting equipment is going to have big benefits for a business – it will have major bearing on how an industry operates and what can be achieved in the hours available. It makes sense to pick the right tools for the job as well to help improve productivity and also keep workers safe. There is a lifting table for all jobs, big and small, but it is worth considering the following points before making what can often be a significant financial outlay.
Worker safety
Occupational health and safety is a driving factor in the workplace today so it makes sense that everything possible is done to protect workers. Not only are there numerous hazards in every workplace that can result in accidents which may lead to serious injury or even death, but injuries are also a major contributor to lost productivity. It is widely regarded that lifting anything over 15kg can be dangerous for workers, particularly if that lifting is done incorrectly. Back injuries, crush injuries to legs and arms and muscle damage are common when workers try to lift heavier loads. So it makes sense that using a lifting table or scissor lift will eliminate many of the dangers associated with lifting.
Improved productivity
Lifting Tables allow industries to lift and move heavy items – and lots of them – in minutes rather than hours. The time saved using these lifts in a busy industrial setting, means more work can be done in the hours available. Using most lifts is quite simple, so training workers in their safe and efficient use is easily done. This means more workers are able to do a range of jobs, so if an employee is unavailable to carry out a lifting job, the boss can always turn to someone else.
It is important to consider the task you plan to carry out, so having the right type of lift for the job is also vital. Consider your future needs as well to make sure it doesn’t cost you money down the track upgrading equipment.