SCISSOR LIFT

This course provides classroom instruction and hands-on training for operators of scissor lifts (self-propelled and push-around vertical mobile elevating work platforms). OSHA regulates scissor lifts as mobile scaffolds under 29 CFR 1926.451/1926.454 in construction and 29 CFR 1910.29 in general industry, and requires operators to be trained by a qualified person in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the applicable ANSI/SAIA A92 consensus standards. Participants learn safe operating principles with emphasis on platform stability, fall protection, guardrail use, and elevated work practices, followed by a practical skills demonstration and performance evaluation. Successful completion supports employer certification of the operator for the specific equipment type and workplace.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Identify the controls, instrumentation, and operating characteristics of a scissor lift
  • Interpret the manufacturer's load chart and determine safe platform capacity, including occupant, tool, and material weight
  • Explain platform stability and how ground conditions, wind, and platform extension affect it
  • Properly inspect and use guardrails and, where required, personal fall protection while working from the platform
  • Perform a pre-operation inspection and properly report defects
  • Operate the scissor lift safely, including travel, elevating, positioning, and descent
  • Recognize and respond to workplace hazards affecting safe operation, including overhead obstructions, drop-offs, and holes

EVALUATION AND CERTIFICATION

Each operator's performance is evaluated in the workplace by a qualified trainer or evaluator. The employer certifies that each operator has been trained and evaluated for the specific make and model of equipment. The certification record includes the name of the operator, the date of the training, the date of the evaluation, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation.