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Introduction
This article takes an in depth look at lift tables.
You will learn more about topics such as:
What is a lift table?
Types of lift tables
How lift tables work
The benefits of lift tables
And much more�
Chapter One � What is a Lift Table?
A lift table serves as an adaptable platform intended for supporting materials and modifying their height to suit a variety of applications and individual user requirements. It features a sturdy, stable base frame, which can be placed directly on the floor, integrated into a pit, or equipped with casters or wheels for mobility. Most lift tables incorporate hydraulically powered scissor legs to deliver a seamless and consistent vertical movement essential for accurate positioning and operation.
Offering a versatile workspace, lift tables can be adjusted to facilitate a wide array of industrial activities such as sorting parts, conducting repairs, organizing tools, or creating a flexible work area in small spaces. Crafted with ergonomics as a priority, these tables contribute to a low-stress, comfortable, and convenient work setting.
Chapter Two � What are the different types of lift tables based on their power source and lifting mechanism?
Lift tables are an essential industrial material handling solution designed for efficiently moving, elevating, positioning, and transferring heavy or awkward loads in warehouses, manufacturing plants, logistics centers, and distribution facilities. By providing a cost-efficient and safe method for material handling, lift tables reduce the risk of ergonomic injuries, increase workplace productivity, and optimize available floor space. They play a crucial role in streamlining operations, allowing workers to work comfortably at the ideal height, and thereby promote overall employee well-being and operational efficiency.
There is a wide variety of lift table designs available today, each engineered for specific applications and load capacities. To help users select the optimal equipment, lift tables are commonly categorized by their power source—such as manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric—and by the type of lifting mechanism employed. Understanding these classifications enables businesses to choose the right lifting table solution based on operational requirements, desired lift height, duty cycle, and intended application.
Types of Lift Tables By Power Source
Manual Lift Tables
Manual lift tables represent the most straightforward type of industrial lift table, primarily designed for handling lighter loads and applications that do not require frequent lifting. They are widely used for their reliability, durability, and minimal maintenance needs. Manual scissor lift tables use mechanical means—like a crank, ratchet, screw jack, or hydraulic hand pump—operated by hand or foot pedal to raise or lower the platform. These ergonomic lifting devices are ideal for assembly lines, packaging workstations, and light-duty material handling tasks where power access is limited.
Pneumatic Lift Tables
Pneumatic lift tables utilize a pneumatic air lift system powered by compressed air, eliminating the need for an electrical power source or hydraulic fluids. An air compressor delivers the lifting force, making pneumatic-powered lifting tables highly portable, energy-efficient, and easy to relocate. Unlike hydraulic models, pneumatic lift tables do not use oils, lubricants, or other fluids in their lifting mechanism, eliminating the risk of contamination and making them especially suitable for cleanrooms, pharmaceutical manufacturing, food and beverage processing, electronics assembly, and other environments with strict sanitation standards.
Pneumatic lift tables feature robust, maintenance-free air cylinders for reliable and smooth vertical movement. Their fluid-free design reduces environmental impact and complies with many workplace safety and cleanliness regulations. Pneumatic lift tables are often chosen when mobility, cleanliness, and operator safety are top priorities.
Hydraulic Lift Tables
Hydraulic lift tables are among the most common and versatile industrial lift tables on the market. They rely on a hydraulic system to adjust the platform's height, typically by pumping hydraulic fluid into or out of cylinders connected to a set of scissor legs. As fluid is forced into the cylinder, the scissor mechanism elevates the table, providing powerful lifting capabilities. Hydraulic lift tables are typically electrically powered but may also feature manual or battery operation for mobile configurations.
Hydraulic scissor lift tables are the industry standard across manufacturing, warehousing, automotive, and assembly operations, renowned for their high lifting capacity, durability, and smooth operation. They are ideal for heavy-duty lifting applications, ergonomic work positioning, forklift loading/unloading, pallet handling, and production line integration. Optional features such as tilt tops, turntables, safety rails, and portability kits further enhance their versatility and safety in industrial environments.
Electric Lift Tables
Electric lift tables use powerful electric motors, operating on either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC), to automatically raise and lower the lifting platform with the push of a button. These electrically powered lift tables may be plugged into an electrical outlet or powered via on-board rechargeable batteries for greater flexibility and mobility. Safety features such as emergency stop switches, overload protection, and remote controls ensure operator security and ease of use. Standard configurations use 12v DC or 24v AC motors, though other voltage options are available for specialized requirements.
Electric lift tables are ideal for environments requiring frequent load repositioning, precise height adjustments, and minimal physical effort by operators. They are commonly used in assembly lines, shipping and receiving departments, laboratory settings, and robotic workstations. Their rapid, smooth, and quiet lift operation enhances workflow efficiency and supports automation in advanced manufacturing environments.
Lift Table Types By Lifting Mechanism
Scissor Lift Tables
Scissor lift tables use scissor-shaped support arms, known as pantograph mechanisms, that open and close to vertically raise or lower the platform. These versatile tables can be powered by hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric systems, and can accommodate a wide range of load sizes and weights. Scissor lift platforms deliver a stable, uniform lifting surface and can be custom-tailored with different platform sizes and accessories to handle uniquely shaped loads.
The range of scissor lift table designs includes single scissor, double scissor, and even multi-stage configurations, enabling lifts from a few inches to several meters in height. They are ideal for palletizing, order picking, conveyor integration, machine feeding, mezzanine access, and work positioning. Single scissor lift tables can manage loads of up to eight tons, while double or tandem scissor configurations provide extended vertical reach for heavy, oversized, or extra-long loads, including bulk packages and multiple pallets simultaneously.
Screw Scissor Lift Tables
Screw scissor lift tables incorporate a mechanical screw drive within the scissors support structure. A threaded screw, driven by a motor or operated by hand crank, extends or retracts to raise or lower the table. This precision motion allows for smooth, incremental height adjustment without the use of hydraulic fluid or compressed air. Screw-driven lift tables are valued for their self-locking ability, which keeps the platform stable in any position and minimizes the risk of accidental descent.
This reliable screw mechanism is ideal for precision assembly tasks, laboratory workstations, testing environments, and any application demanding fine control over lifting and positioning. Because there are no fluids involved, screw scissor lift tables are low-maintenance and contamination-free. The base of the table structure provides clear visibility of the screw drive in most designs.
Belt Drive Lift Tables
Belt drive lift tables operate using an electric motor that powers one or more belts to actuate the scissor lifting mechanism. The quantity and arrangement of belts depend on design requirements and payload capacity. Each belt can be adjusted for optimal tension and is typically replaceable, making these lift tables easier to service and maintain. The compact, internally mounted electric motor and customizable work platform size are key advantages of belt-driven lift tables.
These tables provide reliable, low-maintenance vertical transportation, making them ideal for repetitive cycle operations, automated assembly lines, and electronics manufacturing where a clean, efficient, and quiet lifting solution is necessary. Belt drive mechanisms also enable application in spaces with low overhead clearance or limited floor space.
Rack and Pinion Tables
Rack and pinion lift tables utilize a rigid support column and a pinion gear mechanism, powered by a geared electric motor, to adjust the platform's height. This industrial lifting method allows for exceptional structural integrity and can accommodate extremely heavy or oversized loads. The rack acts as a linear gear that guides vertical movement, while the motor-driven pinion gear translates rotational force into vertical lifting motion—comparable to automotive jacks or industrial hoists.
Because of their robust and durable construction, rack and pinion lift tables are commonly used in foundries, machine shops, and heavy fabrication facilities requiring frequent elevation of exceptionally large or awkward loads. They are valued for their longevity, consistent lifting power, precision, and the ability to withstand rugged operating environments.
Articulated Lift Table
An articulated lift table features a multi-link (often two-part) lifting mechanism, typically powered by one or more electric motors. As one support segment elevates, the upper linked segment rises in tandem, smoothly carrying the work surface to the required height. This unique lifting geometry allows for versatile movement, including both vertical and horizontal adjustments in some models. Articulated lift tables are reflective of cherry picker or aerial work platform designs, making them suitable for technical work, light assembly, and environments where access to varying heights and ergonomic positions is required.
These tables can generally lower the platform close to floor level for convenient loading/unloading and are frequently used for small parts assembly, sorting areas, light-load workstations, and environments demanding precise operator access and safety. Articulated lift tables are also valued in the electronics and clean energy sectors for their precise adjustment and ease of maneuverability.
How to Choose the Right Lift Table for Your Needs
When selecting the ideal industrial lift table for your application, consider several important factors: required load capacity, maximum lift height, platform dimensions, power source availability, workspace layout, frequency of use, and required safety features. For specific environments—such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, or electronics manufacturing—opt for fluid-free pneumatic or screw drive lift tables to minimize contamination risk. For heavy-duty operations, a hydraulic or rack and pinion system may provide the necessary strength and reliability. Always verify manufacturer ratings, service support, available accessories, and industry compliance to ensure your scissor lift or platform lift table delivers optimal performance and long-term value.
Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers
Chapter Three � What are the different types of lift tables based on their function?
Lift tables are classified not only by their construction or mechanisms, but also according to their specific functional applications in industrial settings, warehousing, and material handling. Understanding the different types of lift tables by function is critical for companies seeking to enhance worker safety, streamline workflows, and handle material handling tasks efficiently. Whether your operation needs a compact lift for repetitive light-duty workstations or a high-capacity scissor lift for industrial environments and heavy equipment, there is a lift table designed to meet those requirements.
Leading lift table manufacturers provide a wide selection of ergonomic lift tables to fit diverse applications, including heavy-duty industrial automation, warehouse loading docks, assembly lines, pallet handling, and specialized processes like molten metal transport or truck unloading. Choosing the right material handling lift solution depends on the table’s design, power source, load capacity, and compatibility with your operational needs.
Standard Lift Table
The standard lift table is a stationary, versatile platform designed for safe vertical lifting of loads up to three tons (6,000 lbs.). Its primary function is to create an ergonomic adjustable work surface, reducing workplace injuries caused by excessive bending, reaching, or awkward lifting. These tables are widely used in manufacturing, packaging, and logistics operations—especially in automated conveyor systems and assembly lines where frequent vertical load transfer or work positioning is required.
With a minimum lowering height of approximately eight inches, standard lift tables can be efficiently loaded or unloaded with common warehouse equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. Most models use electric or hydraulic motors for smooth, stable lifting motion, and feature robust scissor mechanisms for safety and durability. Standard lift tables improve production throughput and help organizations comply with occupational health and safety protocols.
Rotating or Turntable Tables
Turntable lift tables offer a seamless way for workers to rotate loads for optimal access during assembly, inspection, or packaging. The 360-degree rotating platform allows for effortless repositioning and precise handling of materials, which is particularly beneficial during order picking, quality control, or any operation requiring multi-side access. Available in manual or powered configurations, rotating scissor lift tables align with ergonomic best practices, minimizing manual handling risks and enhancing safety in demanding environments.
Portable Lift Tables
Portable lift tables, also called mobile lift carts, combine versatility and mobility for dynamic workspaces. Engineered for easy movement and positioning, these lift tables accommodate material transport, shop floor flexibility, and on-demand lifting. Models range from manually operated hydraulic lifts to battery-powered or electric mobile lifts, supporting applications such as order picking, shipping and receiving, stock replenishment, and equipment maintenance.
Portable scissor lift tables vary in platform size, lift height, and load rating, offering tailored solutions for both lightweight goods and heavy industrial loads. Their easy-rolling casters, push handles, and modular build enable quick adaptation and reconfiguration, making portable lift tables ideal for lean manufacturing setups, distribution centers, and retail backrooms. Robust versions can even serve as alternatives to pallet jacks or compact forklifts for moving bulky items safely and efficiently.
Self-Leveling Lift Tables
Self-leveling lift tables utilize a weight-activated compression spring system to automatically adjust platform height as materials are added or removed. By maintaining a constant ergonomic position, these pallet positioners are indispensable for efficient pallet loading, shrink-wrapping, and manual assembly processes. Self-leveling platforms minimize repetitive strain injuries by keeping the load at the ideal working height throughout all stages of material handling.
Often incorporating a rotating or turntable top, self-leveling lift tables support high-throughput environments such as distribution hubs or manufacturing cells. Their design enhances worker productivity and adherence to best ergonomic practices, as employees avoid constant stooping, stretching, or lifting. These tables are essential for operations prioritizing operator comfort, efficiency, and workplace safety compliance.
Lift and Tilt Tables
Lift and tilt tables provide precision positioning by combining vertical lifting with controlled tilting action. Featuring an integrated tilt base, these advanced scissor lift mechanisms allow users to position heavy loads at the optimal angle, reducing repetitive strain and manual effort in assembly, inspection, and sorting operations. Open-frame construction allows a low-profile lowering position—an advantage for workspaces with spatial constraints.
Commonly utilized in machine shops, electronics manufacturing, and repair facilities, lift and tilt tables support a wide range of weights and load geometries. Their dual-function design (lifting and tilting) is powered by hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric systems, offering angle adjustments up to 90°. Multiple platform sizes, power sources, and safety features are available to suit diverse material handling requirements.
Specialized models such as ground entry lift and tilt tables, recessed into the floor, allow for convenient access by forklifts, pallet jacks, or warehouse robotics, reducing manual handling and risk of injury. With the ability to lift and position everything from palletized goods to awkward machinery, these tables are a cornerstone of ergonomic material flow in both light-duty and heavy-duty operations.
Multi-Stage Lift Tables
Multi-stage lift tables, sometimes referred to as "double scissor lifts" or "high-lift scissor tables," use stacked scissor mechanisms to achieve greater vertical elevation in a compact footprint. These tables are invaluable for applications requiring above-average lifting heights—such as vertical stacking, mezzanine feeding, or order picking in multi-level warehouses—without expanding horizontal space requirements.
Multi-stage designs can be adapted to a wide variety of industrial, manufacturing, and storage environments. By ensuring both stability and platform versatility at height, these high-lift tables contribute to safer and more efficient handling of goods in space-constrained facilities. When workload demands reaching tall racking or accessing multiple platform levels, multi-stage lift tables deliver superior performance.
The image below has three of the more common multi-stage table lifts.
Tandem Lift Tables
Tandem lift tables—characterized by two or more connected scissor lift mechanisms working in parallel or sequence—offer an extended work platform for moving bulky or elongated materials. These industrial lift tables can handle wide, long, or irregular loads that exceed the capacity of standard single-platform lifts, making them ideal for sheet metal, panel boards, large assemblies, or furniture manufacturing.
Their robust parallel scissor arrangement increases load stability and capacity, supporting heavy-duty lifting for large-scale production, automotive assembly, or warehouse consolidation. Configurations may change to accommodate specific workflow or conveyor lines. Tandem lift tables enhance throughput, safety, and handling precision for oversized or multi-point loads.
Heavy Duty Lift Table
Heavy-duty lift tables are engineered for the extreme demands of manufacturing, assembly, and industrial environments that require the safe elevation of exceptionally heavy loads. Featuring reinforced steel construction, large-diameter scissor rollers, and multiple hydraulic cylinders, these tables withstand heavy use and high load stress. They can be customized for specialized lifting, such as die handling, heavy tool changeovers, vehicle assembly, and bulk material transfer.
Durable upper rollers and multi-cylinder hydraulics ensure smooth and controlled lifting of loads that can exceed several tons. Every major component is constructed for maximum structural integrity, providing safety in high-stress operations and supporting consistent productivity even under rugged conditions. To increase the lift capacity of the table, it has multiple hydraulic cylinders mounted side by side. These heavy-duty lift tables are often integrated into automated production lines or used as mobile equipment lifts for repair bays and industrial workshops.
Post Lift Tables
Post lift tables utilize vertical support posts instead of the traditional scissor mechanism, resulting in a stable platform with open space beneath. These tables are favored for workbench applications, lab operations, and light industrial processes where unobstructed access under the lift is needed for tools, parts, or waste bins. A single hydraulic piston—activated by a hand or foot pump—elevates the table, locking it at the desired height for stable material handling or assembly work.
Available in multiple styles, including fixed, mobile, tilt-top, and turntable variants, post lift tables offer design flexibility to match unique workspace needs. While typically offering less vertical adjustment than scissor lifts, they can be specified for exact ergonomic requirements and accommodate custom lift mechanisms or power sources.
Low Profile Tables
Low profile lift tables are purpose-built for fast, efficient ground-level loading and unloading of pallets or materials. With a collapsed height of less than four inches, these tables minimize ramp requirements and are easily accessible by forklifts, pallet jacks, or hand trucks. Their compact frame makes them ideal for environments with limited vertical clearance or where integration into existing conveyor or packaging lines is required.
Common uses include ergonomic palletizing, goods receiving, and light assembly. Some models offer built-in locking turntables or rotating platforms for enhanced repositioning of loads, further streamlining warehouse material flow and reducing manual labor. Customers benefit from streamlined workflows, improved operator safety, and enhanced productivity, especially in high-volume logistics and distribution centers.
Pit Mounted Lifting Table
Pit mounted lifting tables are installed so that the platform is flush with the floor, granting easy roll-on/roll-off access for pallets, pallet jacks, or carts. Common in logistics operations and loading docks, these hydraulic lift tables eliminate tripping hazards and create a seamless transfer zone for material movement. The integrated scissor lift mechanism enables ergonomic elevation of goods from ground to desired height with minimal manual intervention.
Pit mounted tables feature load capacities ranging from 250 kg (550 lbs) to 6000 kg (6 tons), depending on industrial requirements. Anti-slip platforms, guardrails, and custom sidewall options can be added for increased safety, especially when lifting unstable or oversized loads. Installation may require professional floor modifications to ensure long-term durability and load stability.
Choosing the Right Lift Table for Your Application
Selecting the ideal lift table involves assessing key factors such as load capacity, lift height, platform size, safety features, power source (manual, electric, or hydraulic), duty cycle, and industry-specific requirements. Consider the following:
Ergonomics & Operator Safety: Choose models with built-in safety rails, anti-slip platforms, and ergonomic controls to minimize worker injuries.
Customization: Many manufacturers offer custom lift tables tailored for unique material handling processes—such as hazardous material transport, oversized pallet handling, or cleanroom-compatible tables.
Compliance: Ensure your chosen lift table meets all applicable OSHA, ANSI, and CE safety standards for industrial and warehouse equipment.
Integration: For automated facilities, verify that the lift table can be integrated with conveyor systems, robotics, or AGVs for seamless operation.
Whether upgrading a manufacturing process, refining warehouse logistics, or pursuing ergonomic improvements for your team, leveraging the right type of lift table will enhance operational efficiency, improve workplace safety, and yield long-term cost savings. Explore the extensive array of lift solutions available and consult with your supplier to identify the best lift table configuration for your industrial, material handling, or commercial application.
Chapter Four � How Lift Tables Work?
Lift tables come in various designs based on their lifting mechanisms and power sources. Each type is tailored to specific applications. Despite the numerous configurations, all lift tables share a fundamental purpose: to elevate a load, making it easier to handle and transport.
While there are many different types of lift tables, each one incorporates four essential features: a base, a platform, legs, and a power or lifting source. These components are crucial for supporting and safely lifting the load.
Using a Lift Table
Plate or Platform
The lift plate is supported by legs that move vertically. Most lift tables feature wheels located underneath the plate, which facilitate smooth rolling within the plate's underside. The size of the lifting plate is designed to match or slightly exceed the dimensions of the largest item intended for placement on it. Its primary function is to securely hold items or loads in place during lifting.
While the platform's dimensions can vary, it should not be smaller than the length and width of the scissor mechanism or base. However, it can be larger and more expansive than these components. Platforms may also include additional features such as turntables, conveyor stops, tilting mechanisms, and clamps.
Lift Capacity
The rated lifting capacity of a lift table is a crucial factor in determining its effectiveness. This rating indicates the maximum weight the table can handle while fully loaded, with typical capacities ranging from 500 to 20,000 lbs. For tables designed to manage rolling loads such as pallet trucks, rolls of paper, or steel coils, additional ratings for single axle end load and side load are provided. These additional ratings are relevant when the table is elevated.
Raising the Table
Most lift tables feature scissor legs that support both the platform and the load. These legs, typically arranged in pairs, are attached to both the base and the platform. As the scissor legs extend, the platform rises vertically. Various designs exist for scissor legs; some models have one leg fixed while the other moves, whereas others involve both legs moving.
The scissor legs are mounted on enclosed rollers situated on both the base and beneath the table. When the lift mechanism is engaged, the rollers either come together or move towards a stationary leg, causing the platform to elevate. The rate at which the table ascends or descends is controlled by the motor, which can be fine-tuned based on the specific type of lift table.
Lowering the Table
The descent of a lift table is meticulously regulated by the motor to ensure that the table lowers smoothly and maintains stability of the load. In the event of a power outage or any obstruction, the table will automatically halt. The rate of descent is governed by the motor type, which may be hydraulic, electric, or pneumatic. For hydraulic lift tables, the speed of descent is managed through a flow valve that controls the hydraulic fluid exiting the cylinder.
Base of the Table
The table's base is constructed from durable, heavy-duty metals. It serves as the lift table's foundational support and features tracks designed for guiding rollers. This base is essential for holding and stabilizing the entire table structure and its components. The dimensions of the base are influenced by the platform's size, its load capacity, and the method used for loading and unloading the lift table.
Base frames can be installed in various ways, including embedding them in pits, mounting them on wheels or casters, or fixing them directly to the floor, with the floor-mounted option being the most prevalent. The image below illustrates a rectangular base with rollers, and this particular model includes two cylinders for its hydraulic system.
Scissor Legs
The scissor legs consist of vertical supports located beneath the platform and anchored to the base. These components are crucial for the lift mechanism, allowing the table to rise and fall while connecting the base with the platform. They are responsible for adjusting the height of the platform and guiding the load during operation.
The orange metal structures visible under the table and resting on its base are the scissor legs of this hydraulic lift table.
Power of a Lift Table
The power for a lift table comes in several forms. Though hydraulic is quite common, pneumatic, electrical, chain, belt, and other drive forms are also used. For hand powered lift tables, a pump raises and lowers the table, which can be activated by foot or hand. Electrical motors are used for hydraulic tables for powering the hydraulic cylinders. Electric motors can be DC or AC, depending on the type of table. Hydraulic and pneumatic lift tables can be powered by hand or by electric motors.
Chapter Five � What are the benefits of using lift tables?
Lifting operations are a staple in industrial settings and often require robust equipment. Relying on workers for repetitive lifting tasks can lead to issues like fatigue, injury, decreased productivity, inefficiency, and accidents. Studies have shown that repetitive lifting, if not done correctly, can cause damage to muscles in the arms, legs, and back. Lift tables were designed to address these ergonomic challenges.
By positioning items at the optimal height and level, lift tables alleviate various physical and mental strain issues. This results in increased worker efficiency and a more positive attitude towards their tasks.
Lift Table Advantages
Stable Platform
One of the primary advantages of a lift table is its stability, which ensures the safety of the materials placed on it. The gradual and controlled movement of the table helps prevent the risk of dropping valuable items, components, or equipment. A stable platform also prevents loads from swinging or becoming unsecured.
Height Benefit
Lift tables can be engineered to achieve virtually any height requirement. Once the table reaches the desired height, it maintains this position even during power outages.
Table Versatility
Lift tables offer significant versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of operations. They can be customized for use with conveyor belts, tilted as needed, and fitted with various accessories such as clamps, rails, and remote controls. With numerous designs and configurations available, lift tables can be tailored to meet specific operational needs.
Mobility of Lift Tables
The popularity of portable or mobile lift tables is on the rise due to their flexibility. They can be moved to areas with limited space, providing a stable work surface where needed. Mobile lift tables are particularly useful for moving heavy equipment to repair locations where a forklift cannot reach.
Table Maintenance
Lift tables are built to endure even the toughest conditions. They are robust tools that can perform as reliably as heavy machinery. Designed to be durable, lift tables typically require minimal maintenance and can often outperform other equipment in the facility without frequent repairs or adjustments.
Advanced Programmability
Many advanced lift tables feature programmability, allowing users to set and control height positions, movements, and loads through an automated system. This capability is essential for applications that demand precise timing and immediate responses.
Ergonomic Design
Efficiency, quality, and performance are crucial in industrial operations, and achieving these goals depends on having staff who are operating at their best. Physical discomfort and mental strain can lead to decreased effort, poor performance, and inefficiency.
The ergonomic design of lift tables not only alleviates physical strain but also addresses mental fatigue. By adapting to the needs of various tasks, lift tables help mitigate concerns related to handling heavy loads, thus enhancing overall worker well-being.
Vertical Range
Lift tables have an extensive vertical range, particularly with the advent of multi-stage lift models. These tables can function similarly to elevators, allowing for lifting to considerable heights within a facility while adhering to proper safety standards.
Chapter Six � What are the standards for lift tables?
As with any form of equipment used in an industrial operation, lift tables have standards, requirements, and regulations used to determine their use and safety. Standards for lift tables have been somewhat overlooked sunce most attention has been dedicated to carts, hand trucks, forklifts, and pallet jacks.
The British Standards Institute (BSI) establishes standards for the United Kingdom and has focused on lift tables by creating specific standards for their operation and use. They offer certifications and guidelines for a broad range of equipment and tools.
Additionally, two major international bodies have developed standards for lift tables: European Standards (EN) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
European Standards set forth technical criteria and guidelines for the operation of various equipment and machinery. These standards are overseen by ISO, a global organization responsible for developing both national and international standards.
Standards for Lift Tables
The British Standards Institute (BSI)
BS EN 1570-1 outlines the safety standards for lift tables that handle up to two fixed items.
European Standards (EN)
To complement the BSI guidelines, the EN has established standards for lift tables that encompass:
Rules for loading, strength, and stability calculations.
Safety requirements for people and goods
Construction clearances
Protection for people, goods, and installations
Raising and lowering speeds
Overload protection
Prevention of lowering if there is damage to the mechanism
Inclusion of control systems
Testing standards for new lift tables
Instructions for maintenance, inspection, installation, and safe operation
International Organization of Standardization (ISO)
The ISO is a global organization with members from all industrialized countries, dedicated to creating standards and guidelines.
Included in ISO 3691-5:2014 are standards for lifting equipment such as forklifts and platform lifts.
Rules for strength and stability calculations, including testing
Attachment of safety measures for preventing a load from falling
Minimum clearance levels
Protection for goods, workers, and fixed installations
Ergonomic design
Guidelines for wheel brakes
Overload protection
Raising and lowering speeds
Guidelines for electrical control systems
Guidelines for maintenance, installation, manufacture testing, warnings against misuse, risks of operation, and methods of inspection
Conclusion
A lift table is a platform capable of holding materials as well as raising, lowering, and adjusting them to any height to meet the needs of an application and the requirements of the user.
Lift tables are an easily accessible work surface that can be adjusted to meet the needs of various industrial applications such as sorting parts, doing repairs, holding tools, or providing a flexible workspace in a limited or enclosed area.
Lift tables are an excellent solution for improving productivity while providing increased work space.
A key factor related to the use and selection of lift tables is their design and the loads they will carry.
Regardless of the many configurations, every lift table has the same basic function: lift a load to make it easier to work and transport.
Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers
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