Why is it a good idea to do technical inspections on scissor platforms?
TECHNICAL INSPECTION - INSPECTION AND TESTING OF MOBILE PLATFORMS
To exclude potential hazards during the operation of mobile platforms, the machine must be subjected to periodic technical inspections. Most lifts are subject to supervision by the Office of Technical Inspection - it supervises and commissions all tests on mobile platforms.
Equipment to be inspected
Lifts subject to inspection by the Office of Technical Inspection are all mobile lifts with rectilinear movement - with a lifting capacity of more than 250 kg. They require both an UDT declaration and a current medical examination. An exception to this regulation is for portable, rectilinear hoisting equipment with a maximum lifting capacity of less than 250 kg. This type of equipment only requires maintenance by qualified service technicians.
Types of technical examination
Among the range of tests commissioned by the DTU in connection with the operation of lifting machinery are:
- Performance tests - are focused on checking that the machine has been operated correctly - in accordance with the machine's instructions. If there has been an upgrade, replacement of parts or repair, the ability of the machine to continue operating is checked. This is mainly carried out at the written request of the applicant if: load-bearing linkages, booms, safety devices have been replaced or repaired, additionally for any non-standard upgrades.
- Periodic examinations - are carried out before the expiry of the previous review. Among other things, they verify that the recommendations of the previous period's protocol have been implemented. In addition, the presence of any instructions, information and warnings is checked. It is important that they are visible and legible in the space provided. In summary, they review the covers and any changes or damage that may prevent the safe operation of the lift in the future.
- Emergency and post-accident tests - are commissioned when an appliance has broken down, suffered significant damage or been involved in an accident. It is usually performed to determine the cause of the accidental event. The technical condition of the mobile platform is estimated - whether it will be possible to continue operating it after repair or whether the machine should be taken out of service. Unfortunate accidents involving people should be reported immediately.
Preparation for technical tests
The machine submitted for technical testing must be prepared in an appropriate manner. Safe conditions must be taken care of: preparation of the site, appropriate tools or required loads for testing. The presence of the machine's maintainer and a certified operator will be essential. It is also advisable to show the maintenance logbook of the machine, the revision book, the operator's qualification certificates and the electrical measurement protocol.
The delegated inspector has the right to refuse technical supervision when the above conditions are not met. In addition, a refusal may be encountered when the following are not ensured: proper lighting, sufficient condition of the equipment, as well as when the permissible working conditions according to the occupational health and safety standard are exceeded.
Why is this important?
Periodic and emergency examinations on scissor lifts are essential for several reasons:
- Employee safety - Scissor lifts are heavy equipment that are used to lift and move people and heavy objects at height. It is therefore important that these pieces of equipment are fully operational and safe for users. Regular technical inspections help to identify and repair any technical problems, and emergency examinations help to respond quickly to problems that arise unexpectedly.
- Compliance with regulations - legislation requires regular technical and emergency examinations on scissor lifts. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to financial penalties and also increase the risk of accidents at work.
- Increasing the performance and lifetime of equipment - Regular maintenance checks allow defects to be detected and repaired at an early stage, increasing the efficiency and life of the equipment. As a result, scissor lifts are able to last longer and perform to their full potential.
Questions and answers
Do I have to make a fault report on a scissor lift?
If your equipment is subject to a UDT inspectorate, defects should be reported immediately for technical inspection.
What documentation do I need to provide during a technical inspection?
A maintenance logbook for the equipment, an inspection book, an electrical measurement report and a certificate of qualification for the lift operator should be prepared.
