HSE issues scissor lift safety warning

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a safety alert to users of certain scissor lifts after a spate of deaths.

Over the last few years, five individuals have been killed in incidents involving scissor lifts overturning, which are used mainly by service and maintenance engineers and construction workers.

The JLG 500RTS and 400 RTS scissor lifts must be checked daily to ensure that each 'safety critical component' is in good working order.

Each of the accidents has come about as a result of the oscillating axle – the component which allows the lift to be driven on rough ground with the platform lying flat – failing to lock into place when the platform rose up.

The other factor behind the overturning accidents was linked to the lift-and-drive interlock system failing to work. This system is meant to allow the platform to rise above 6.7 metres without using stabilisers.

Richard Clarke, HSE Inspector, said, "Though this safety alert is primarily to warn those who own and use these specific models of scissor lift, and those with similar interlock systems, it should serve as a reminder to all users of mobile elevating work platforms that there is a need to regularly maintain, inspect and test the equipment.

"This isn't just recommended by manufacturers but is also required by law," he added.