Scissor Lift - Training

Operating a scissor lift safely requires proper training to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of operators and others on site. This checklist ensures all required elements are covered during training.

Pre-Training Preparation

• Identify and select qualified trainers with verifiable scissor lift experience.
• Ensure all training materials, manuals, and documentation are current and equipment-specific.
• Confirm that training area and equipment (for practical) are safe, charged and ready for use.

Classroom Training:

• Show a scissor lift safety video.
• Provide an overview of lift types, components, and functions.
• Stress the importance of reading the manufacturer’s operating manual.
• Teach applicable regulations and standards (local OHSA requirements).
• Review common hazards, including tip-overs, entrapment, falls, and electrocution.
•  Discuss safe operating procedures and emergency protocols.
•  Explain load capacities, load distribution, and overloading risks.
•  Address stability, including working on slopes, uneven ground, or weather conditions.
•  Review personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements (e.g., harnesses, hard hats, boots, high-vis gear).
• Cover fall protection requirements (if applicable).

Hands-On Training:

• Confirm the annual lift inspection is current.
• Conduct training in a controlled and hazard-free environment.
• Demonstrate pre-operational inspections: controls, hydraulics, guardrails, tires, platform gate, and safety devices.
• Instruct on daily function tests and documentation.
• Demonstrate safe platform entry/exit procedures using three-point contact.
• Train operators on control functions, including speed, elevation, and descent.
• Emphasize awareness of overhead hazards, such as beams and power lines.
• Teach safe maneuvering techniques, including:
  1. Steering, braking, and turning.
  2. Operating on inclines or uneven terrain.
  3. Maintaining a safe distance from edges and drop-offs.
  4. Working around pedestrians, vehicles, and customers.
  5. Safe loading/unloading onto trailers or trucks.
• Discuss wind speed limits and weather-related restrictions (if outdoors).

Emergency Procedures:

• Review actions for platform malfunction, power failure, or operator injury.
• Demonstrate use of emergency lowering mechanisms.
• Train use of emergency stop buttons.
• Cover Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures if the machine is unsafe or requires servicing.
• Emphasize need to barricade work areas to prevent unauthorized access during operation.

Documentation:

• Issue a training certificate upon successful classroom and hands-on completion.
• Maintain records of inspections, training dates, participant names, and materials used.

Periodic Refresher Training:

• Schedule refresher courses annually, or when:
  1. Regulations change.
  2. Equipment changes.
  3. Operator is involved in an incident or shows unsafe behavior.

Supervision and Evaluation:

• Assign supervisors to oversee new or inexperienced operators.
• Conduct regular evaluations and spot checks to ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Fostering a Safety Culture

• Encourage reporting of hazards, near-misses, and safety concerns.
• Promote a culture where safety overrides deadlines or pressure.
• Regularly communicate about lessons learned from incidents or observations.