Lift Trolleys: An In-Depth Material Handling Guide

Scissor lift trolleys are valuable in any environment where flexibility, mobility, and adjustable height are required for material handling, assembly, maintenance, or safety. Their ability to combine lifting with mobility makes them a popular choice for improving efficiency and reducing workplace injuries.

Scissor lift trolleys are an essential tool for many workplaces. Whether you need industrial lifting platforms or scissor lift trolleys, we have created this in-depth guide to explain everything you need to know about lift trolleys and how to use them safely. 

What are scissor lift trolleys?

Scissor lift trolleys are mobile lifting equipment that operate with a scissor mechanism to raise and lower a platform or tabletop. The combination of the scissor lift and the mobility of the trolley makes this an essential piece of equipment for many workplaces. It is ideal for use in industrial, warehouse, manufacturing and a range of other settings. If you need to be able to move materials or equipment at various heights, a scissor lift trolley can make this much easier and safer.

Take a look at some of its key features:

• Scissor mechanism: One of the standout features of a scissor trolley is the lifting mechanism. This consists of crossing supports that resemble a pair of scissors. When the supports are compressed, the platform is lowered, when extended, the platform is raised. This provides the user with a stable lift.
• Adjustable height: The scissor lift trolley can function at different heights, giving the user ultimate flexibility to achieve various tasks. Scissor lift tables are generally powered by a battery or manually foot-pumped
• Mobility: Another key feature of lift trolleys is the ability to move around with ease. They are typically equipped with wheels or casters so that the trolley can be moved easily around the workspace. This helps transport materials, tools, or equipment from one location to another.

Applications of lift trolleys

Many industries can benefit from the use of industrial lifting platforms. They increase safety, ergonomics and efficiency. Here are a few industry applications of the scissor lift table design.

• Industrial/Warehouse: They are commonly used in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centres for moving heavy materials, loading and unloading goods, and positioning items at ergonomic heights.
• Workshops and Maintenance: In workshops or maintenance settings, they can be used to elevate equipment or machinery for easier access and repair.
• Retail and Office: In retail environments, scissor lift trolleys can be used to stock shelves, and in offices, they can serve as adjustable-height mobile tables or workstations.

How are scissor lift trolleys used?

Scissor lift trolleys are versatile tools used across various industries to lift, transport, and position materials or equipment. Their unique design, combining a scissor lift table mechanism with a mobile trolley base, allows them to serve a variety of functions. 

Material handling

Firstly, in many industries, material handling is a key task that sees the movement of heavy or bulky items with warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centres. This can be challenging and dangerous without the right tools. It can lead to injuries and accidents if not done properly, which is why industrial lifting platforms are so vital. The adjustable height features allow users to easily load and unload goods at a level that is convenient to them. This helps create a more ergonomic method of working and reduces the risk of back strain and other injuries.

Ergonomics

As mentioned above, scissor lift trolleys can significantly improve ergonomics. If workplaces require employees to lift or move heavy items repetitively, this can cause workers to lift in awkward positions and experience musculoskeletal injuries. However, with the addition of a lift trolley, ergonomic workflow is improved and can make assembly lines, packaging and shipping areas much more comfortable.

Safety

As well as reducing the chances of injury, lit tables significantly increase safety in the workplace. The likelihood of heavy or bulky items being dropped onto workers or other accidents is reduced because of the safety design features of the lift trolley.

Maintenance and repair

Scissor lift trolleys are used to elevate equipment or machinery for easier access during maintenance or repair work. The adjustable height allows technicians to position the platform at the ideal level for performing tasks without straining.

Assembly lines

In manufacturing settings, scissor lift trolleys can be used to move components along assembly lines. Their adjustable height helps ensure that parts are positioned at the right level for assembly, allowing workers to perform tasks efficiently and ergonomically.

Loading and unloading

In loading docks or shipping areas, scissor lift trolleys are used to raise or lower goods to match the height of trucks, containers, or other platforms. This makes the process of loading and unloading more efficient and reduces the need for manual lifting.

Stocking and warehousing

In retail and warehouse settings, scissor lift trolleys are used to stock shelves, organise inventory, or retrieve items from higher levels. The mobility of the trolley allows for easy manoeuvring through aisles or storage areas.

Medical and healthcare

Although less common, scissor lift trolleys can be used in medical settings for transporting equipment or supplies, allowing for adjustable height to accommodate different procedures or requirements. Stainless steel lift trolleys are available, which are commonly used in cleanroom environments such as laboratories and other hygienic medical environments.

Safety precautions

There are several safety precautions to consider before using industrial lifting platforms. Ensure operators are familiar with the equipment’s controls and safety features. When it comes to load limits, never exceed the manufacturer’s specified load capacity. This includes the combined weight of the load and any additional equipment or accessories. 

You should always keep the load centred and balanced to prevent tipping. Avoid placing heavy objects on one side of the platform. Additionally, when operating, ensure that the path is clear of obstacles, debris, or uneven surfaces. Be cautious of floor drains, cables, or other trip hazards. Operators should always wear appropriate protective gear, including safety shoes, gloves, and eye protection, as needed.

Lift trolley operating instructions

Here is a guide to operating your scissor lift table design:

• Adjusting height: Use the lift controls to raise or lower the platform. Move slowly and smoothly to avoid sudden movements that could destabilise the load.
• Securing the load: Ensure that the load is secured on the platform. Use straps, clamps, or other securing mechanisms if necessary.
• Moving the trolley: Push the trolley from a stable position. Use the handles provided, and ensure that the wheels are not locked when moving.
• Locking wheels: Once in position, lock the wheels to prevent accidental movement. Unlock the wheels only when ready to move again.
• Avoid tilting: Do not tilt the platform when it is elevated, as this can cause instability. If tilting is necessary, ensure the load is stable and the angle is within safe limits.
• Keep hands clear: Keep hands and other body parts clear of the scissor mechanism during operation.

Emergency procedures

Unfortunately, accidents can happen in the workplace, so it’s always smart to be prepared for such instances. Should an accident happen, all workers should be aware of first aid kit locations and there should be someone on site who is trained and able to perform first aid. This ensures quick action in the event of an incident.