07.01.2011

HSE warns on RT scissors

The UK Health & Safety Executive has issued a warning regarding the oscillating axle interlock on JLG 400/500RTS models.

The warning follows three separate incidents in the past four years which have resulted in a total of five fatalities after the units have overturned.

The safety alert is intended to warn service and maintenance engineers and those in the construction industry who use these models of scissor lift, to ensure that safety critical components are working correctly. It also recommends that all machines with oscillating axles are routinely checked and reminds users and owners that the law requires such checks.

In all three accidents, the oscillating axle which allows the machine to maintain four tyre contact while being driven on uneven ground, failed to lock-out when the platform was raised.
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A JLG 500RTS

The malfunctioning lift/drive interlock systems also allowed the platform to be elevated and driven above its 6.7 metre cut-out height without the stabilisers being deployed.

Owners of both these types of scissor lifts are being advised to ensure that the oscillating axle lockout system and the lift/drive cut out switches are checked for correct functioning (in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations) before the machine is next used and that users complete daily inspections and function testing of both elements.

HSE inspector Richard Clarke 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.”

"Used as directed and with all the necessary checks, we continue to recommend the appropriate use of mobile elevating work platforms as a tool to enable work at height to be carried out safely."

The safety alert can be viewed in full at www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletins/scissorlifts.htm

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