Scissor lift
Scissor lifts are a type of aerial work platform (AWP) or mobile elevated work platform (MEWP), used to provide temporary access at height. They are commonly used for temporary maintenance purposes and to undertake construction work. Charles Larson, of the USA, first patented the scissor lift in 1963, but he did not invent it. It was invented by John W Parker of California.
Unlike some other types of elevated platform, scissor lift platforms can only move vertically, elevated by linked, folding supports in an ‘X’ pattern, known as a pantograph. Pressure is applied to the external side of the lowest set of supports, which elongates the criss-crossing supports and raises the platform.
Scissor lifts are usually diesel-powered. The platform be lowered without using the power system, by releasing the hydraulic or pneumatic pressure.
As there are inherent limits in only being able to move vertically, the platform may be fitted with a section that extends outwards to allow closer access to the required work area.
They are typically fitted with wheels allowing them to be relocated.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Cherry picker.
- Construction plant.
- Construction tools.
- Forklift truck.
- Hoist.
- Lift table.
- Lifting device.
- Lifting platform.
- Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).
- Post lift.
- Scaffolding.
- Stacker.
- Types of crane.
- Work at height.
- Working platform.
- Working platforms for tracked plant: good practice guide to the design, installation, maintenance and repair of ground-supported working platforms.
Featured articles and news
HSE simplified advice for installers of stone worktops
After company fined for repeatedly failing to protect workers.
Co-located with 10th year of UK Construction Week.
How orchards can influence planning and development.
Time for knapping, no time for napping
Decorative split stone square patterns in facades.
A practical guide to the use of flint in design and architecture.
Designing for neurodiversity: driving change for the better
Accessible inclusive design translated into reality.
RIBA detailed response to Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report
Briefing notes following its initial 4 September response.
Approved Document B: Fire Safety from March
Current and future changes with historical documentation.
A New Year, a new look for BSRIA
As phase 1 of the BSRIA Living Laboratory is completed.
A must-attend event for the architecture industry.
Caroline Gumble to step down as CIOB CEO in 2025
After transformative tenure take on a leadership role within the engineering sector.
RIDDOR and the provisional statistics for 2023 / 2024
Work related deaths; over 50 percent from construction and 50 percent recorded as fall from height.
Solar PV company fined for health and safety failure
Work at height not properly planned and failure to take suitable steps to prevent a fall.
The term value when assessing the viability of developments
Consultation on the compulsory purchase process, compensation reforms and potential removal of hope value.
Trees are part of the history of how places have developed.