Guelph Scissor Lift Safety Training - A scissor lift is a kind of platform lift which moves vertically. The lift table is moved in a vertical motion because of criss-cross folding supports that are linked in what is known as a pantograph. The platform is able to propel vertically because of the application of pressure to the outside of the lowest set of supports. This elongates the crossing pattern and causes the equipment to rise. Various kinds of scissor lift also have an extending "bridge" that allows operators to have closer access to the work area as the vertical only movement can have some inherent limits.
There are lots of different models of scissor lifts obtainable. They could be powered by a variety of means including mechanical, via a rack and pinion or lead screw system, or pneumatic or hydraulic. Various models may need no power to enter "descent" mode but instead depend on a simple release of pneumatic or hydraulic pressure depending on the power system used. These pneumatic and hydraulic methods of powering these lifts are preferred because releasing a manual valve gives a fail-safe choice of returning the platform to the ground.