Knowing if the lift table will be pit installed or surface installed is an important factor in the design of the lift table platform. Lift tables that are installed in a recessed pit must have the platform equipped with either 4 sided beveled toe guards or electric toe sensors. 4 sided beveled toe guards provide a physical alert and are intended to push toes or other objects away as the platform lowers into the pit. Electric toe sensors stop the downward descent if contacted by any obstruction. If the lift table is surface or floor installed straight platform toe guards are adequate.
The lift table platform should be sized to assure the load is stable as the product is positioned on the platform. If there is an operator and product on the platform it should be sized to provide free and clear access as the operator moves around on the platform
When a lift table has operators on the platform the ends or sides that are not used for loading or unloading are most commonly equipped with 42” high guard rails c/w mid-rail and 4” high kick plate. The ends or sides of the platform that are used for loading or unloading are most commonly equipped with access chains or electrically interlocked gates (lift table will not operate unless gate(s) is closed and locked). Selecting a checker plate steel platform as opposed to a standard smooth steel platform increases the operator traction on the lift table platform reducing the chance of operator injury due to an accidental slip or a fall.
It is important to identify the traffic direction travelling over the lift table platform. Lift tables have a higher rolling load capacity rating when the load travels in the same direction as the scissor legs or across the ends of the platform as opposed to travelling 90 degrees to the scissor legs and over the sides of the platform in a  raised position. Knowing the traffic travel direction over the lift table platform assures the proper measures are taken to determine the correct lifting capacity and use parameters to maintain platform stability throughout the operating range.
Another important factor to consider is the location of the lift table controls. If the operator is on the platform of the lift table when it is in use there is merit in having the lift table controls installed on a post on the platform. For 35+ years Pentalift has assisted in the design and functionality of a wide range of lift tables to suit many applications earning the reputation as a leader in the lift table and material handling industry. For additional information or assistance in your particular lift table application please contact the Pentalift Sales Department.