Elevated Work Platform (EWP) and Scissor Lift Safety

Date: 2026-01-29

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To ensure all personnel understand and adhere to safety procedures for operating EWPs and scissor lifts, minimizing risks and preventing accidents.

Introduction

This toolbox talk covers essential safety procedures for operating Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) and scissor lifts. It emphasizes pre-operation checks, fall protection, and emergency shutdown procedures to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Key Points

• Pre-Operation Inspection: Before each use, a thorough inspection of the EWP or scissor lift is crucial. Check for any visible damage, ensure all controls are functioning correctly, and verify that safety devices are in place and operational.
  • Check for hydraulic leaks.
  • Inspect tires and wheels for damage.
  • Verify proper functioning of all controls.
• Fall Protection: Proper fall protection is mandatory when working on EWPs and scissor lifts. This includes wearing a full-body harness with a lanyard attached to an approved anchorage point.
  • Ensure the anchorage point is suitable and can withstand the required force.
  • Inspect the harness and lanyard for any signs of wear or damage.
  • Use a self-retracting lifeline (SRL) when appropriate to minimize fall distance.
• Safe Operating Procedures: Operate EWPs and scissor lifts according to the manufacturer's instructions and established safety guidelines. Maintain a safe distance from hazards such as power lines and overhead obstructions.
  • Never exceed the maximum load capacity.
  • Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and hazards.
  • Use outriggers or stabilizers according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Emergency Shutdown Procedures: Know the location and proper use of emergency shutdown controls. In case of a malfunction or hazardous situation, immediately shut down the equipment and follow established emergency procedures.
  • Familiarize yourself with the location of the emergency stop button.
  • Know the procedures for lowering the platform in an emergency.
  • Report any incidents or near misses immediately.
• Training and Competency: Only trained and authorized personnel are allowed to operate EWPs and scissor lifts. Training should include both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
  • Ensure operators are familiar with the specific model of EWP or scissor lift they are using.
  • Regular refresher training should be provided to maintain competency.
  • Operators should be able to demonstrate their ability to safely operate the equipment.

Hazard Identification

Operating EWPs and scissor lifts involves several potential hazards that must be identified and controlled to prevent accidents and injuries.

• Falls from Height: Severe injuries or fatalities due to inadequate fall protection or unstable platforms. (Risk: High)
• Electrocution: Contact with overhead power lines can result in electrocution or serious burns. (Risk: High)
• Tip-Overs: Unstable ground conditions or exceeding load capacity can cause the EWP or scissor lift to tip over, leading to injuries. (Risk: Medium)
• Crushing Hazards: Being caught between the platform and overhead structures or equipment can result in crushing injuries. (Risk: Medium)
• Equipment Malfunction: Failure of critical components such as hydraulics or controls can lead to accidents and injuries. (Risk: Medium)

Control Measures

• Conduct Pre-Use Inspections: Perform a thorough inspection of the EWP or scissor lift before each shift, checking all critical components and safety devices.
• Ensure Proper Fall Protection: Require all occupants to wear a full-body harness with a lanyard attached to an approved anchorage point at all times.
• Maintain Safe Distances from Hazards: Keep a safe distance from overhead power lines and other potential hazards, following established clearance guidelines.
• Adhere to Load Capacity Limits: Never exceed the maximum load capacity of the EWP or scissor lift, and distribute the load evenly on the platform.
• Provide Adequate Training: Ensure all operators are properly trained and certified to operate the specific type of EWP or scissor lift they are using.
• Implement Emergency Shutdown Procedures: Familiarize all operators with the location and proper use of emergency shutdown controls and establish clear emergency response protocols.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Hard Hat: Always wear a hard hat to protect against head injuries from falling objects or overhead hazards. Ensure the hard hat fits properly and is in good condition.
• Safety Glasses: Use safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust, debris, and other potential eye hazards.
• High-Visibility Vest: Wear a high-visibility vest to ensure you are easily seen by other workers and equipment operators, especially in low-light conditions.
• Fall Protection Harness: A full-body harness is required when working at heights. Inspect before each use and ensure proper fit.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. What are the most common hazards you encounter when operating EWPs or scissor lifts?
2. What steps can we take to improve safety procedures on site?
3. How can we ensure that pre-operation inspections are consistently thorough?

Emergency Procedures

1. In the event of an emergency, immediately activate the emergency stop button to halt all operations.
2. Lower the platform to the ground in a controlled manner, if possible.
3. Evacuate the area and report the incident to the supervisor or safety personnel.

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always conduct a pre-operation inspection before using an EWP or scissor lift.
• Use proper fall protection equipment and ensure it is in good condition.
• Operate the equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines.
• Know the emergency shutdown procedures and be prepared to respond to incidents.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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