26.10.2017
Safe/Unsafe?
Spotted by a reader in New York earlier this week, two scissor lifts working in a street near Times Square, with large plastic sheet covers.
In the words of our correspondent: "Please see attached pictures of two machines seen a couple of blocks from Time square in New York within the last three days. Surely this is misuse as I am sure the manufacturer did not calculate the additional wind loads of these covers. They seemed to be welding and grinding from these on a busy street."
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Spotted in New York City scissor lift with irregular attachment
It is true there is no way that a sail area of this magnitude was allowed for in the stability calculations, and in open areas with a brisk gust of wind, this machine would almost certainly overturn. However in this application there is little to no chance of moving above the building and as such will not be subject to a direct wind gust that would push the machine away from the building. Wind from the back will simply push the machine into the building – presenting hazards of a different kind including the risk of pinching and crushing.
A strong wind running up the street could create problems too, although not of the same magnitude as one hitting the side of the machine. And in all likelihood the plastic would probably be ripped from the platform in such a scenario? There are proper products for this sort of application, that use a similar fabric to scaffold nets, that catch sparks but let the wind pass through, reducing the effect of the sail. On balance it ought to be in our Death Wish series.
But what do you think- safe or unsafe? Comments below
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A second unit wiht a bigger sail
Peter Wellspring
The question would need to be asked - Is this structure actually secured to the scissor lifts. It may be in position around the work area and the scissor lift just comes up behind it. Without being 100% certain, you would almost give them the benefit of doubt that they have addressed the risk.
Maybe plastic sheeting is not the best if they are welding and a more suitable shield could have been sourced.
Tmayes
The simple answer is it?s in America of course it?s not safe, next week he will probably get thrown from it, electricuted or turn it over by try to uproot a tree with it.
Always Learning
Is it safe? Look no further than that operator's manual provided with that machine. In it you will find instructions such as :
Any modifications from the original design are strictly forbidden without written permission from SKYJACK.
AND...
DO NOT increase the lateral
surface area of the platform.
Increasing the area exposed
to the wind will decrease
aerial platform stability. Avoid
tenting.