Scissor lifts are a popular choice for many industries due to their ease of use, versatility, and ability to work both indoors and outdoors. However, when working at height, safety should always be the top priority. One of the most critical aspects of working with scissor lifts is fall protection.

Scissor lifts can elevate workers up to 60 feet or more, making falls from such heights extremely dangerous. A single misstep or equipment failure can lead to severe injury or even death. That’s why following OSHA guidelines for fall protection is not just important—it's essential.

While some argue that proper training and adherence to procedures make accidents unlikely, real-world scenarios often involve unpredictable variables. Weather conditions, unstable ground, and human error all contribute to the risks associated with working at height. This is why it's crucial to go beyond the minimum requirements and ensure every worker has the right tools and knowledge to stay safe.

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 means ensuring that workers are protected by either guardrails or a personal fall arrest system (PFAS). Employers are also required to conduct regular inspections and maintain equipment to prevent failures.

In addition to physical safety measures, OSHA mandates that employees receive training on how to properly use fall protection systems and recognize hazards. Documentation of this training is also required to ensure accountability and compliance.

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

Most scissor lifts come equipped with guardrails that meet OSHA standards. These railings should be placed around the entire platform and have a height between 35 and 45 inches. While these are sufficient for basic protection, some experts argue that additional measures are necessary for high-risk jobs.

Despite OSHA's minimum requirements, many companies choose to implement stricter safety protocols. In certain cases, especially when guardrails are removed for access, a personal fall arrest system is required to add an extra layer of protection.

A PFAS includes a full-body harness, lanyard, and anchor point. It is designed to stop a fall before the worker hits the ground. Many scissor lifts have built-in anchor points, making it easy for workers to connect their harnesses and remain secure while working at height.

Even with guardrails, some situations—such as open sides or unstable surfaces—require the use of a PFAS. This ensures that workers are fully protected in case of an unexpected fall or equipment failure.

There is ongoing debate about whether OSHA's fall protection standards for scissor lifts are too lenient. Several documented incidents show that even with guardrails, workers have been ejected from lifts and suffered fatal injuries. This highlights the importance of going beyond the minimum requirements and implementing additional safety measures.

Pre-use inspections are essential to ensure that scissor lifts are in good working condition. This includes checking for damage, wear, and verifying that all safety features are functioning correctly. Regular maintenance and training also play a key role in preventing accidents.

Proper operation and awareness of potential hazards are equally important. Workers should be trained on how to use fall protection equipment and understand the risks associated with working at height. This helps reduce the likelihood of accidents and ensures a safer working environment.

Implementing additional safety protocols beyond OSHA requirements can further enhance workplace safety. This may include emergency procedures, clear signage, and regular safety meetings to reinforce best practices and keep workers informed.

In addition to OSHA regulations, industry standards such as ANSI and ISO provide additional guidelines for scissor lift safety. These standards help ensure that equipment is designed, tested, and maintained to the highest levels of safety and performance.

This standard outlines requirements for mobile elevating work platforms, including scissor lifts. It specifies the need for guardrails when the platform is raised and requires anchor points for personal fall arrest systems.

ISO standards focus on the safety of machinery and include specifications for scissor lifts. They emphasize the design and construction of equipment to ensure it is safe for use and meets international safety benchmarks.

At PowerPak, we specialize in providing fast and reliable access to essential safety equipment, including fall protection systems. We understand that delays in receiving safety gear can put workers at risk, which is why we prioritize quick delivery and availability.

Waiting weeks for a safety harness or fall arrest system can lead to unsafe practices. That’s why we offer same-day shipping for orders within our service area and maintain a large inventory to avoid backorders.

Learn more about how to use safety harnesses properly.

Our commitment to safety is reflected in our four core pillars: fast delivery, no backorders, quick response times, and over three decades of experience in the utility and infrastructure industry.

Whether you're looking for a full-body harness, lanyards, or anchor points, PowerPak has you covered. Explore our offerings at PowerPak.net to find the right safety solutions for your team.

Visit PowerPak.net today to ensure your workers are always equipped with the best fall protection available.