DIY Scissor Lift: Good or Bad Idea?

Here’s a number that may surprise you: Over 25% of all aerial lift deaths involved a scissor lift. In addition, many of these deaths were fall-related, either from falling from a lift or being struck by a falling lift.

So, if scissor lifts are so dangerous, why do people use them?

Well, like most machinery, these lifts can be dangerous if handled improperly, but they provide important functions for workers around the world. They are used in people’s homes as well, and sometimes even made by homeowners.

It can be tempting to use a DIY scissor lift, but it’s important to know when using a DIY scissor lift is appropriate and when it is not.

Scissor Lift Uses

Scissor lifts help lift large loads, such as goods, materials, and people. They also reduce the amount of strain a worker endures while lifting materials themselves. Another benefit is that they can increase efficiency and capabilities.

Imagine working in a warehouse with rows upon rows of merchandise that reaches to the ceilings. Obviously, it would be hard for a worker to lift heavy boxes up to the highest shelves. However, with a scissor lift, the worker can bring him or herself and the product up to those higher shelves much more easily.

Not all scissor lifts are necessarily meant for industrial use, so they aren’t all hydraulic-powered. There are simple, wooden scissor lift tables used all around the world in people’s homes.

When used in a home, a scissor lift table is often self-adjusted without the use of any electricity. And they’re often used to create a unique look for a desktop or piece of furniture.

DIY Scissor Lift: Good or Bad?

It can be a good thing. It can also be a bad thing. It depends on the situation.

If you’re making a scissor lift for use in your home as a piece of furniture and you have the requisite building skills and experience, you can probably create a safe DIY scissor lift no problem.

And why wouldn’t you? They’re handy little things because they can be adjusted to different levels for ease of use. They’re also unique-looking and can make heads turn at the design.

If you’re making a scissor lift for use in your business, however, then a DIY lift is not appropriate. Here are just a few reasons:

  • Scissor lifts used in industrial and commercial settings are built specifically for those purposes.
  • There are standards that have to be followed and important training guidelines involved.
  • Using a homemade scissor lift in the workplace could endanger your workers.
  • A DIY scissor lift will not be the same as a custom-engineered scissor lift that is able to lift thousands of pounds.

Find a New Scissor Lift Today

Remember: Not all scissor lifts are created equal. And even secondhand scissor lifts can be dangerous. If you own a business, going new is the safest option.

For more information regarding scissor lifts, please check out our blog. And feel free to contact us with any questions regarding our wide array of lift products.