Scissor Lifts: Safety and Practical Use Guide

Scissor lifts have become a common sight on construction sites, in warehouses and in building maintenance, offering a controlled way to work at height. Used correctly, they can improve both safety and productivity, but misuse can quickly create serious hazards. Understanding how they work, the rules that apply in the UK, and the everyday practices that support safe use is essential for anyone planning or carrying out work with this type of platform.

Understanding scissor lift operation and safety basics

A scissor lift is a type of mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) that raises a work platform vertically using crossed metal supports shaped like a pair of scissors. Power is usually provided by electric batteries for indoor work or diesel engines for outdoor and heavier-duty tasks. Controls are located both at the base and on the platform, allowing the operator to manoeuvre and lift from the working position when it is safe to do so.

Safe operation starts with competence. In the UK, workers should receive appropriate training on the specific model they will be using, including familiarisation with the controls, emergency lowering systems and manufacturer instructions. Pre-use inspections are critical: operators should check guardrails, toe boards, tyres, hydraulic systems, control functions and emergency stop switches before starting work. Any defects should be reported and the machine taken out of service until checked by a competent person.

Working at height rules also apply. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require planning, supervision and the use of suitable equipment. That means assessing whether a scissor lift is the right choice for the task, ensuring surfaces are firm and level, and preventing people from leaning or climbing over guardrails. Where there is a risk of ejection, a suitable restraint harness may be required, attached to an approved anchorage point on the platform.

General insights into effective scissor lift usage in projects

Using a scissor lift effectively in a project involves more than simply raising and lowering the platform. Before work begins, planners should consider the sequence of tasks, the number of people needed on the platform, and the materials or tools they must carry. This helps in choosing a machine with adequate safe working load and platform size, reducing the temptation to overload the lift or use unsafe workarounds.

Route planning is another important factor. Operators need clear, obstacle-free paths between the storage area and the work location. Overhead hazards such as beams, pipework, electrical cables or sprinkler systems must be identified in advance. On busy sites, separating vehicle and pedestrian routes from scissor lift movements can reduce the risk of collisions. Signage, barriers and communication with other trades all support safer operation.

Environmental conditions also influence effective use. Indoor projects require good ventilation, particularly with diesel-powered units, and careful management of noise. Outdoor projects must take account of wind speeds, rain and uneven ground. Many scissor lifts have maximum wind ratings; exceeding these can increase the risk of tipping, so work should be paused when conditions are unfavourable.

General overview of scissor lift equipment and applications

Scissor lift models vary widely, and matching the equipment to the application is a core safety control. Electric slab scissor lifts are typically compact, with non-marking tyres, and are suitable for smooth indoor floors in warehouses, shopping centres and factories. They are often used for tasks such as installing electrical systems, ductwork, lighting or signage, and for routine inspection and maintenance.

Rough-terrain scissor lifts are built for outdoor use on more uneven ground. These machines may have larger platforms, higher lifting capacities and features such as four-wheel drive, stabilisers or outriggers. They are common on construction sites, road projects and external building works such as cladding or facade repairs. Selecting a machine with the right platform height and outreach ensures that work can be completed without stretching or improvised access.

Some scissor lifts incorporate additional features, such as extendable decks that provide extra horizontal reach or narrow chassis designs for working in tight aisles. Regardless of the model, all equipment should be inspected and maintained in line with manufacturer schedules and relevant UK regulations. Thorough examinations by a competent person at appropriate intervals help confirm that critical components remain in safe condition.

Practical considerations for scissor lift use in projects

Practical planning around scissor lift use begins with a risk assessment covering the specific task and location. This should address ground conditions, slopes, edges and openings, overhead obstructions, nearby traffic and the presence of other workers. Control measures might include levelling the ground, installing edge protection, isolating the work area or adjusting the work method where hazards cannot be fully removed.

Access and egress require particular attention. The platform should only be entered and exited at ground level or at a safe, designated point, never by climbing over guardrails at height. Gates and chains must be secured before elevation, and tools or materials should be organised to avoid tripping hazards on the platform floor. Good housekeeping reduces the chance of slips and falls while the lift is in use.

Communication is another practical aspect. Operators and ground staff should agree simple hand signals or radio communication methods before starting. In some situations, a banksman may be appointed to guide movements, especially where visibility is limited or other plant is operating nearby. Everyone involved should know how to operate emergency lowering controls and who to contact in the event of an incident.

Battery management and storage also affect safe day-to-day use. For electric units, charging should be carried out in suitable areas with adequate ventilation, following manufacturer guidance. Cables should be routed to avoid trip hazards, and charging connectors must be checked for damage. When not in use, scissor lifts should be parked on level ground with brakes applied, platforms fully lowered and keys removed to prevent unauthorised operation.

In summary, scissor lifts offer a controlled means of working at height across many UK industries, but they demand respect and disciplined use. By understanding how these platforms operate, applying core safety basics, selecting appropriate equipment and planning practical project details carefully, organisations can support safer, more efficient work while meeting their legal duties and protecting everyone on site.