Scissors lifts and ladders transfer workers’ heavy objects and transportation from the surface to the heights. However, scissor lifts are more beneficial than ladders. If you belong to the construction industry then this blog will be helpful for you to decide between ladder and scissor lifts on the site. So, let’s explore the advantages of using scissor lifts over ladders.
Difference Between Ladders and Scissors Lifts
Scissors lifts are aerial platforms of metals, plastic, or fiberglass and can move in different directions. Ladders are synchronized steps that are helpful for upward movement. The main difference between the ladder and scissor lift is their mobility and flexibility. Aerial lifts can access any position at any direction while ladders are placed on a specific place and they can touch a limited high point in a certain direction.
Why are Ladders not Recommended?
Ladders are used on small construction sites where the migration of heavy machinery or objects is not involved. However, it is not recommended for more significant construction sites. The hazardous points of using ladders on construction sites are as under
- You can not use a ladder on the uneven surfaces.
- Descending from the top through a ladder is unsafe, as you must pay attention to the steps.
- There is a chance of injury if you ascend or descend while carrying heavy objects.
- Wood or rope ladders can not bear heavy weights, and breaking ultimately leads to injuries.
- Ladders do not fulfill the requirements of stability, which are three points of contact on the surface, while ladders usually have two points of contact on the surface.
- Ladders have standard heights and reach a specific limit; you can not access the highest points on construction sites with ladders.
Why Choose Scissor Lifts Over Ladders?
Scissor lifts are preferred over ladders on heavy-duty construction sites. The reason for this selection is due to various facts. Exploring the facts about ladders and lifts can help you to make informed decisions at a time and you can ensure the safety of your workers. Let’s have a look at facts that make scissor lifts preferable over ladders.
- Stable Supporting Structure
Scissor lifts have a stable base structure with a base and can support heavy weights, while ladders do not have a supportive base. Their base steps must be more robust to lift and bear heavy weights.
- Convenient for Workers
Scissor lifts are operated by electrical power, hydraulic pressure, or diesel. Workers have to stand on the lifts, which easily land them at their desired height. On ladders, laborers manually move upward and downward, which easily makes them tired and affects their working efficiency.
- Protect From Falling on the Ground
Scissor lifts have a secure system to prevent laborers from falling from heights. In the scissors lifts, body harnesses and lanyards are attached to the lift’s access point to protect the falling of labor.
- Maximum Reach
Ladders have limited reach and can not be extended to maximum heights, while scissor lifts are easily extendable to maximum heights. Therefore, lifts are easily used for high places, such as multi-story building construction.
- Cost Efficient
Ladders are potential risk factors for injuries in the workforce, while lifts are secure and cause minimum injuries. Fewer injuries mean less hospital expenditure and no need to hire new labor.
- Flexible Movement
Scissor lifts are flexible and can move in any direction: upside down, downside, and in the right and left directions, while ladders are fixed in a position and only provide upward movement, that too with a man’s force.
Few Tips And Tricks to Use Lifts Efficiently
Following are a few tips for using aerial lifts efficiently on the construction site.
- Always check that the lift is in working condition and properly working.
- Thoroughly inspect the site and analyze any danger or risk factor on the construction site while using lifts and resolve them.
- Never overload the lift. You must have a sound knowledge about the capacity of all types of lifts to put the thrush to hold weight.
- Make sure that the lifts are fully equipped with all safety standards.
Conclusion
Scissor lifts are recommended over ladders due to their maximum benefits, such as fall protection, flexibility to move in various directions, convenience for workers, cost efficiency, and protection from injuries. However, scissor lifts should also be used with great care. You should follow all the rules and regulations and check all regulatory measures for the safety of the lifts.
