Scissor lifts are a popular choice for many industries due to their ease of use, versatility, and safety when operated correctly. However, working at height always comes with risks, and fall protection is one of the most important aspects of using these machines safely.

Many scissor lifts can elevate workers up to 60 feet or more, which means that a fall from this height can be fatal. While these lifts are generally considered safe, it's essential to follow all safety guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries.

Some people believe that proper training and adherence to procedures make accidents nearly impossible. However, real-world conditions can vary greatly, and even the most experienced operators can face unexpected dangers on the job site.

According to OSHA, employers must provide fall protection for employees working at heights of four feet or higher in general industry and six feet or higher in construction. For scissor lifts, this includes guardrails or personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). Employers are also required to inspect equipment before each use and ensure that it's maintained properly.

In addition to physical safety measures, OSHA requires that all employees receive fall protection training. This training should cover how to use fall protection equipment and understand the hazards associated with working at height. Records of this training must be kept as well.

Fall protection for scissor lifts typically involves either guardrails or personal fall arrest systems. Both are effective, but the choice depends on the specific work environment and job requirements.

Most scissor lifts come equipped with guardrails around the platform. These must meet OSHA standards—typically between 35 and 45 inches high—to prevent falls. Even on lifts that reach over 100 feet, the requirement is just a single set of guardrails.

Despite this, some industry experts argue that guardrails alone may not be enough at extreme heights. Many companies have implemented additional safety protocols beyond what OSHA requires.

A PFAS includes a full-body harness, lanyard, and anchor point. It is designed to stop a fall and prevent injury. Most scissor lifts have built-in anchor points, so workers can attach themselves quickly and easily.

When guardrails are removed for access, OSHA requires the use of a PFAS in addition to the remaining guardrails. This ensures that even in open areas, workers remain protected.

There has been much debate about whether OSHA’s current fall protection standards for scissor lifts are sufficient. Several incidents have shown that even with guardrails, workers can still be ejected from the lift. One notable case involved a worker who fell to his death after driving over an unmarked hole. These events highlight the importance of going beyond minimum requirements.

Before using a scissor lift, always perform a thorough inspection. Check for any damage, wear, or issues with safety features. This helps ensure that the equipment is in good condition and ready for use.

Proper training is also crucial. Workers should know how to operate the lift safely and understand the risks of working at height. They should also be trained on how to use fall protection equipment effectively.

Regular maintenance is another key factor. Keeping the lift in good condition reduces the risk of mechanical failure and ensures that all safety features function properly.

Employers should also implement additional safety protocols beyond OSHA requirements. This includes having emergency plans in place and clearly marking potential hazards to keep workers informed and alert.

In addition to OSHA, other organizations like ANSI and ISO provide additional safety guidelines for scissor lifts. These standards help ensure that equipment is designed, tested, and maintained to the highest safety levels.

This standard outlines the design and safety requirements for mobile elevating work platforms. It includes specific rules for guardrails and anchor points to ensure worker protection during use.

This international standard covers the safety of machinery, including scissor lifts. It sets requirements for design, construction, and maintenance to reduce the risk of injury.

At PowerPak, we specialize in providing fast and reliable access to critical safety equipment. We understand that delays in receiving fall protection gear can lead to unsafe situations, so we prioritize quick delivery and availability.

Waiting weeks for a safety harness is not an option. We offer immediate access to all necessary equipment to ensure your team is always prepared.

Learn more about how to properly use safety harnesses and other protective gear.

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