The most common scissor lift accident is a fall from the platform, often linked to improper use, irregular ground, or lack of training. Preventing these accidents requires proper operator training, daily inspections, effective fall protection, and careful site planning to reduce tip-over risks and other hazards.
Scissor lift accidents happen across various industries, including construction sites, maintenance operations, warehousing, and facility management. Although many workers assume scissor lifts are safer than other aerial lifts, incident data from occupational safety authorities show that falls, tip-overs, and contact with overhead hazards remain the leading causes of injuries.
What are the common Scissor Lift Accidents and Why They Occur
Among common scissor lift accidents, falls account for the most serious injuries. These incidents frequently occur when operators lean beyond guardrails, climb on rails, or operate the lift on uneven ground.
Other common scissor lift accidents include:
- Tip overs: often caused by uneven ground, high winds, or improper positioning;
- Crush injuries: when workers are caught between the platform and overhead hazards;
- Electrical accidents: involving power lines or electrical sources;
- Falling objects: striking workers below the lift;
- Mechanical failures: frequently linked to poor maintenance.
Many of these accidents can be reduced by following best practices to operare a scissor lift safely, suitable machine options for safety operations and reinforcing awareness of site-specific hazards.
Do You Have to Wear a Harness on a Scissor Lift?
Harness requirements depend on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA regulations); safety risk prevention guidance, site rules, and risk assessments for construction workers.
Scissor lifts are typically equipped with guardrails, which act as the primary fall protection system. OSHA does not always require harnesses when guardrails are intact and used correctly. However, harness and fall protection requirements may apply when:
- Guardrails are removed or compromised;
- Operators are exposed to additional fall risks;
- Site-specific safety protocols require harnesses;
- The lift is used near edges or unusual configurations.
When required, harnesses must be connected to approved anchor points. Using proper personal protective equipment plays a key role in preventing falls and limiting injuries.
How Can Tip-Over Accidents Be Prevented?
Tip overs are among the most dangerous scissor lift accidents because they often involve the entire machine overturning. Preventing these risks requires disciplined operating practices:
- Operate scissor lifts only on firm, level ground;
- Avoid uneven ground and temporary surfaces;
- Respect platform load limits;
- Lower the lift before repositioning;
- Stop operation during high winds;
- Maintain safe distances from power lines.
Effective site planning and awareness of ground conditions are critical. Many accidents happen because operators underestimate how quickly risk increases once the lift is elevated.
What Pre-Use Inspections Should Be Done on a Scissor Lift?
Pre-use inspections are a core element of scissor lift safety to avoid common injuries, and they are aligned with OSHA requirements.
Before the job, operators should complete daily inspection checklists for aerial lifts, verifying:
- Guardrails, gates, and platform integrity;
- Controls and emergency stop functions;
- Tires, wheels, and ground contact points;
- Hydraulic systems and visible leaks;
- Warning labels and load charts.
Poor maintenance remains a contributing factor in many accidents. Lifts showing signs of wear or malfunction should be removed from service immediately.
Proper Training to Reduce Aerial Lift Accidents
Proper training is one of the most effective ways to reduce scissor lift accidents and improve workplace safety. Employees should receive formal operator training for aerial work platforms, covering:
- Safe operating procedures;
- Hazard identification and awareness;
- Emergency response protocols;
- OSHA certification requirements;
- Equipment-specific limitations.
Untrained or uncertified workers significantly increase accident risk. Training improves awareness of blind spots, overhead hazards, and interactions with other machines or scaffolding on active job sites.
Conclusion:
Falls are the most common scissor lift accident, followed by tip overs, electrical contact, and crush injuries. These incidents typically result from improper use, uneven ground, or insufficient training.
Reducing scissor lift accidents depends on proper training, daily inspections, fall protection awareness, and thoughtful site planning. Everstar supports safer aerial work platform operations by combining reliable equipment with safety-focused design, training guidance, and operational support.
By prioritizing safety over shortcuts, Everstar helps operators reduce risk and work more confidently at height. For more information, please contact our specialist team.
