Scissor lifts

Scope

Scaffolds used in general industry must meet the requirements in 29 CFR 1926, Subpart L, Scaffolds. OSHA considers scissor lifts to be mobile scaffold and regulates them at 1926.452(w).

Regulatory citations

• 29 CFR 1910.27 — Scaffolds and rope descent systems
• 29 CFR 1926.452 — Additional requirements applicable to specific types of scaffolds ((w) Mobile scaffolds)
• 29 CFR 1926.454 — Training requirements

Key definitions

• Guardrail system: A vertical barrier, consisting of, but not limited to, toprails, midrails, and posts, erected to prevent employees from falling off a scaffold platform or walkway to lower levels.
• Mobile scaffold: A powered or unpowered, portable, caster or wheel-mounted supported scaffold.
• Scaffold: Any temporary elevated platform (supported or suspended) and its supporting structure (including points of anchorage), used for supporting employees or materials or both.

Summary of requirements

Employers need to ensure:

• Only trained persons are allowed to operate a scissors lift.
• Each employee who performs work while on a scaffold is trained by a person qualified in the subject matter to recognize the hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used and to understand the procedures to control or minimize those hazards.
• Each employee who is involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, maintaining, or inspecting a scaffold is trained by a competent person to recognize any hazards associated with the work in question.
• Training for employees is done in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations for instruction, operation, and maintenance outlined in the operator’s manual for each lift.
• Refresher training is provided when there are observed deficiencies in operation, accident or near misses, or a different type of lift is used.
• Lifts are inspected prior to use and in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations in the operator’s manual.
• The operator’s manual is present on the lift at all times for operation, maintenance, and training needs.
• Fall protection is provided via manufacturers guardrails that meet OSHA requirements or personal fall protection if the guardrails are removed.
• Capacity limits as specified by the manufacturer are observed.
• Proper operation and use procedures are used.
• Weather precautions, such as high wind, are observed.
• Overhead hazards, such as power lines, are observed.
• Outriggers and other stability measures are used.