Scissor Lift—Inspection Checklist
29 CFR 1910.29
Scissor Lift—Inspection Checklist
A common piece of equipment in many workplaces is the scissor lift. A key step in protecting workers is to have them inspect the scissor lift prior to using it.
Inspection
Since each manufacturer’s scissor lift is different, always have employees use the manufacturer’s pre-operational inspection checklist.
However for training purposes, use the following generic checklist that covers most of the major inspection areas:
Safety Signs / Check for missing or damaged signage.Battery / Check for proper charge and levels.
Gauges and Lights / Verify they are working properly after start-up.
Pivot Pins / Check for missing mechanical fasteners or damaged pins.
Control Functions / Verify that all the controls are working properly. (operating, lower level and emergency controls)
Tires / Check for bulging or cuts. Verify tire pressure is within the manufacturer’s acceptable range.
Steering & Brakes / Verify steering and brakes are operating correctly.
Frame / Check frame structure and insulation components for damage.
Hydraulic System / Look for leaks and damage to hoses and connectors.
Fluid Levels / Check all fluid levels (oil, hydraulic, fuel and coolant).
Platform / Check that safety rails and toeboards are in place and undamaged.
Remember, that this is a generic checklist. Employees should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for pre-operational inspection if it is available.
Take it Out of Service
If the scissor lift is found to be defective or if it doesn’t function properly, it must be taken out of service until a qualified person inspects and repairs it. To prevent others from using the lift, it should be locked out and tagged with a sign indicating it is not fit for use.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and service at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer.
Employee Training
Because OSHA considers scissor lifts to be mobile scaffolds, §1910.29 applies. Employers have a general responsibility to provide a safe workplace. This would include training employees on the proper use of scissor lifts, including their capabilities, limits and operational safety.
Training Tips
- Discuss where in the facility scissor lifts are used.
- Explain why it is important that employees do a pre-operational inspection of the scissor lift.
- Have scissor lift available, and perform a pre-operational inspection.
- If printed inspection forms are used, pass out samples. Explain what record-keeping requirements the facility has, if any.
For more information see:
- 29 CFR 1910.29—Manually propelled mobile ladder stands and scaffolds
Scissor Lift—Inspection ChecklistHandout
You may use scissor lifts to help you perform tasks at heights. However, scissor lifts must be used properly and inspected before each use in order to be used safely.
Inspection
Each manufacturer’s scissor lift is different, so use the manufacturer’s pre-operational inspection checklist, if one exists. If not, use the following checklist.
However for training purposes, use the following generic checklist that covers most of the major inspection areas:
/ Safety Signs / Check for missing or damaged signage./ Battery / Check for proper charge and levels.
/ Gauges and Lights / Verify they are working properly after start-up.
/ Pivot Pins / Check for missing mechanical fasteners or damaged pins.
/ Control Functions / Verify that all the controls are working properly. (operating, lower level and emergency controls)
/ Tires / Check for bulging or cuts. Verify tire pressure is within the manufacturer’s acceptable range.
/ Steering & Brakes / Verify steering and brakes are operating correctly.
/ Frame / Check frame structure and insulation components for damage.
/ Hydraulic System / Look for leaks and damage to hoses and connectors.
/ Fluid Levels / Check all fluid levels (oil, hydraulic, fuel and coolant).
/ Platform / Check that safety rails and toeboards are in place and undamaged.
Take It Out of Service
- If the scissor lift is defective or doesn’t function properly, do not use it until a qualified person inspects and repairs it.
- Make sure to lock out and tag it with a sign indicating it is not fit for use.
Scissor Lift—Inspection Checklist Sign–Off Sheet
The employees of ______Company Name______, have taken part in a training session Scissor Lift—Inspection Checklist. The session covered:
- Where in the workplace scissor lifts are used.
- Some of the hazards of working with scissor lifts.
- The importance of doing a pre-operational check of the scissor lift.
- What to do if the inspection reveals defects.
Date of Training: / Facility:
Employee Signature / PRINT NAME
______
Supervisor’s Signature