Benefits of Using Scissor Lift Ramps for Workshop and Site Access - 2023

Importance of Ramps for Scissor Lifts

A scissor lift is an invaluable piece of equipment for many workshops and facilities. It allows workers to safely access heights to perform tasks such as maintenance, repairs, installations, and more. However, a key factor in effectively utilizing a scissor lift is having the proper access ramps.

Allowing Access for Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts are mounted on wheels or casters to provide mobility around a job site. However, these units are quite heavy, often weighing thousands of pounds. Without a proper ramp for scissor lifts, it can difficult or even impossible to move the equipment in and around a facility.

Ramps allow scissor lifts to easily move across small obstacles and elevation changes. They provide a graduated slope the lifts can safely travel up and down. Ramps are essential for allowing access into buildings, getting equipment across thresholds or onto platform lifts, loading onto trucks for transport, and more.

Types of Scissor Lift Ramps

There are a few main types of ramps for scissor lifts to consider:

• Portable fold-up ramps - These portable ramps fold up for easy transport and storage. They come in varying lengths and can connect together to span larger gaps and obstacles.
• Drive-up workshop ramps - Permanent or semi-permanent steel ramp options allow lifts to easily drive up into workshops, warehouses, and bays. These heavy duty ramps securely attach to the floor.
• Truck and trailers ramps - Special heavy duty modular ramps allow loading and unloading scissor lifts onto truck beds and trailers for transporting equipment to job sites.

Key Advantages of Using Ramps

Investing in proper ramps for scissor lifts provides some major advantages for your facility and technicians/operators:

• Prevents damage to equipment - Attempting to manually move lifts across gaps or elevation changes often results in damage to the unit. Ramps provide a graduated slope to smoothly transition.
• Improves efficiency - Using ramps saves significant time when accessing buildings or loading/unloading for transport. Workflows are not hindered by obstacles.
• Enhances safety - Technicians no longer have to manually move heavy lifts. Ramps greatly reduce potential worker injury risks from pushing/lifting equipment.
• Promotes proper maintenance - Routine maintenance requires lift manufacturers to access units to perform inspections and repairs. Ramps enable easy entry/exit from workshops.

Types of Scissor Lift Access Ramps

When determining the ramp system that will offer the best usability for your scissor lift there are some key considerations:

Portable Folding Ramps

Fold out jointed ramps provide flexible portable access:

• Modules connect together to reach desired length
• Lightweight aluminum construction with carrying handles
• High traction surface prevents tires slipping
• Quick setup without tools required
• Use indoors or outdoors

Drive-Up Workshop Vehicle Ramps

Permanent steel ramps for workshop access:

• Allow lift drive-up directly into bays and buildings
• Bolts securely to floor to prevent movement
• Wide design accomdates scissor lifts
• Textured deck prevents slipping
• Eliminate thresholds obstructing access

Truck Loading Ramps

Heavy duty ramps to load lifts onto transports:

• Modular interlocking sections
• Handle weight of loaded lift
• Prevent unloading issues at job site
• Creates smooth bridge from ground to truck bed
• Easy teardown after unloading

Safety Considerations for Lift Ramps

When introducing any type of ramp, it's crucial to establish proper safety protocols. Clearly communicate procedures and expectations to technicians before use.

General Guidelines

Refer to manufacturer specifications for rated capacities. Key precautions include:

• Secure ramps in position before attempting to ascend/descend
• No sudden acceleration when driving up ramps
• Watch wheel placement near ramp sides
• Use spotters if vision is obstructed
• Check ramp condition prior to use, replace if damaged
• Only carry tools/materials allowed by scissor lift ratings

Loading/Unloading Truck Transport

Special considerations for loading onto truck or trailers:

• Use ramps of appropriate capacity and length
• Make small lift adjustments when driving across ramp joints
• When possible use dedicated loading docks
• Avoid tilting lift platform when on ramps
• Wear high visibility safety vests when directing operators

Following these guidelines allows crews to fully leverage scissor lifts safely with the assistance of proper access ramp equipment.

FAQs

What weight capacity should my scissor lift ramps be rated for?

Check the specifications of your lift model and ensure the ramp capacity exceeds the maximum weight. Also account for the weight of any tools, materials, and operators that may be on the platform when determining ramp ratings.

How long do folding ramps need to be for access?

Measure the width of thresholds, platforms, and other obstacles you need to span. Ramps should extend at least 18-24 inches beyond to account for a safe transition angle. Multiple folding ramp sections can connect together to reach desired lengths.

Can I use truck loading ramps with different style lifts?

Truck ramps that safely manage the weight of loaded scissor lifts can potentially work for boom lifts and other equipment. However, ensure the platform size suits the wheelbase and consider potential differences in weight distribution on the ramp.

Should ramps be secured before accessing?

Proper securing is vital - portable ramps should have locking pins, straps, or supports engaged to prevent unexpected shifting. Permanent workshop ramps must be firmly bolted to the floor to handle repeated lift use without creeping.