Scissor and boom lifts are on almost every commercial job. Here is how to keep the work fast and safe.
In this article
- Aerial lifts make work at height easier, and riskier
- Operator training
- Pre-use inspection
- Fall protection
- Check the surface
- Watch the wind
- Avoid caught-between hazards
- Power line clearance
- Rescue plan
- Never overload or misuse
- Rented lifts
- The ground crew
- A toolbox talk example
- Frequently asked questions
- Frequently asked questions
Aerial lifts make work at height easier, and riskier
Scissor lifts and boom lifts are on almost every commercial jobsite. They reduce the need for ladders and scaffolding, but tip-overs, falls, electrocutions and caught-between injuries still happen. A clear aerial lift plan keeps the work fast and safe.
Operator training
Workers must be trained on the specific type of lift before using it, including hazards, controls and the manufacturer's manual. Keep training records.
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Pre-use inspection
Check controls, emergency lowering, guardrails, tires, alarms and fluid leaks before every shift. A damaged lift should be tagged out until repaired.
Fall protection
On boom lifts, workers should wear a harness and lanyard attached to the designated anchor point. On scissor lifts, guardrails are the primary protection, and the manufacturer's instructions on harness use apply.
Check the surface
Holes, drop-offs, slopes and soft ground cause tip-overs. Walk the path before moving the lift.
Watch the wind
Each lift has a maximum wind speed for operation. Check the forecast and stop work when limits are exceeded.
Avoid caught-between hazards
Workers can be crushed between the platform and overhead structures. Move slowly near beams and ceilings.
Power line clearance
Keep the required distance from overhead power lines. Plan the work before raising the platform.
Rescue plan
If a worker is stuck or suspended in a harness, rescue must be fast. Know how to use ground controls.
Never overload or misuse
No climbing on guardrails, no ladders on the platform and no exceeding rated capacity.
Rented lifts
Most lifts on site are rented. Inspect on delivery, confirm the manual is on board and report problems to the rental company right away. Make sure workers are familiarized with that specific model, since controls differ between brands.
The ground crew
Someone on the ground should know how to lower the platform in an emergency and keep the area below clear of people and traffic.
A toolbox talk example
"Boom lift today. Harness on and clipped before you leave the ground. Check the path for holes, and if the wind picks up, bring it down."
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a harness in a scissor lift?
On scissor lifts, guardrails are the primary fall protection, and the manufacturer's instructions apply. On boom lifts, workers should wear a harness and lanyard attached to the designated anchor.