Scissor lifts provide a stable, elevated platform for construction workers to complete tasks at heights. However, their mobility and height also expose operators and other personnel to significant electrical hazards if not used properly. Electrocutions are a leading cause of fatal accidents involving scissor lifts, particularly when the equipment comes into contact with overhead power lines. In this article, we outline the key electrical risks associated with scissor lifts and provide essential safety tips for preventing electrical accidents.
Common Electrical Hazards with Scissor Lifts
- Contact with Overhead Power Lines: The most significant electrical hazard occurs when scissor lifts are elevated near power lines. If the lift or the platform comes into direct contact with a high-voltage line, workers are at serious risk of electrocution.
- Faulty Wiring: Older or poorly maintained scissor lifts may have faulty wiring that can lead to electrical shocks or short circuits.
- Ground Faults: Scissor lifts used on wet or conductive surfaces are susceptible to ground faults, where stray electrical currents can travel through the equipment and cause shocks.
- Improperly Grounded Equipment: If the scissor lift or its power supply is not properly grounded, it increases the risk of electrical accidents.
Essential Safety Tips to Prevent Electrical Hazards
- Maintain Safe Distances: Before elevating the scissor lift, survey the surroundings and ensure a minimum clearance distance of at least 10 feet from any overhead power lines. Larger distances are required for lines carrying higher voltage.
- Inspect Electrical Components: Conduct regular inspections of the scissor lift’s electrical wiring, cables, and power supply. Look for signs of wear, fraying, or exposed wires that could lead to shorts or electrical shocks.
- Ground Fault Protection: If operating electric scissor lifts near wet surfaces, ensure that ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are installed to protect against ground faults.
- Training and Awareness: Provide comprehensive training to operators on identifying electrical hazards, maintaining safe distances, and avoiding overhead power lines. Only trained and authorized personnel should operate scissor lifts near potential electrical hazards.
- Use Insulated Tools and PPE: Workers should wear non-conductive personal protective equipment (PPE) and use insulated tools when operating near electrical sources.
- Emergency Procedures: Establish clear emergency procedures for evacuating workers and shutting down equipment in the event of accidental contact with electrical sources.
Conclusion
Electrical hazards are among the most dangerous risks associated with scissor lift operation. By maintaining safe distances from power lines, conducting regular inspections, and using protective equipment, construction sites can significantly reduce the likelihood of electrical accidents. Proper training and preparation ensure that operators can navigate scissor lifts safely and respond effectively in emergencies. Workers who have been injured due to electrical hazards should consult with a personal injury attorney to explore their legal rights and seek appropriate compensation.
Our experienced lawyers have handled personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits of all kinds and have the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously hurt. The experienced scissor lift personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident involving a scissor lift.
Our lawyers have represented numerous workers who have sustained serious and catastrophic injuries on a job site as a result of the negligence of another party. There are strict and short time limits on making claims, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.