Scissor Lift Safety Tips
Overview
Scissor lifts are commonly used for accessing elevated work areas, but their stability and operation characteristics create unique safety challenges. Unlike boom lifts, scissor lifts provide a large work platform but have different hazard profiles that require specific safety measures.
Why This Is Important
Scissor lift accidents often involve tip-overs, falls from the platform, or workers being caught between the lift and overhead obstacles. The large platform can give workers a false sense of security, leading to risky behaviors like leaning over rails or standing on them.
Because scissor lifts only move straight up and down, workers may be tempted to move the entire lift while elevated to reach different work areas, creating dangerous instability and increasing tip-over risk.
Best Practices & Safety Tips
Check Ground Conditions
Ensure the lift is on firm, level ground free of holes, debris, or slopes that could cause instability.
Use Fall Protection
Wear a full-body harness attached to the designated anchor points on the platform, not to structural components.
Maintain Safe Zone
Keep the area around the base of the scissor lift clear of personnel and obstacles during operation.
Monitor Load Limits
Never exceed the platform's weight capacity including workers, tools, and materials. Check the data plate for limits.
Lower Before Moving
Always lower the platform completely before moving the scissor lift to a new location.
Additional Safety Considerations
- Pre-Use Inspection - Check all controls, safety systems, and structural components before each use
- Avoid Overhead Hazards - Be aware of overhead obstacles, power lines, and structures that could trap or strike workers
- Proper Entry/Exit - Use designated access points and never climb over platform rails
- Weather Awareness - Don’t operate in high winds or adverse weather conditions
- Emergency Procedures - Know how to lower the platform manually in case of power failure
- Training Requirements - Ensure all operators are properly trained and authorized for scissor lift operation
Discussion Questions
- What are the most common mistakes you've observed with scissor lift operation?
- How do we ensure proper fall protection is used consistently on scissor lifts?
- What ground conditions in our work areas pose the greatest stability risks?
- How can we improve our pre-use inspection process for scissor lifts?
- What should you do if you encounter overhead hazards while elevated?
Action Items
- Review scissor lift weight capacity and ensure loads stay within limits
- Inspect fall protection anchor points on all scissor lift platforms
- Identify and address ground stability issues in work areas
- Verify all operators understand proper movement and positioning procedures
Related Safety Topics
Takeaway: Scissor lifts provide excellent access to elevated work areas but require the same respect and safety precautions as any aerial equipment. Never let the stable appearance of the large platform lead to complacency — falls from scissor lifts can be just as deadly as any other elevated work accident.