Scissor Lift Inspection Form PDF – [Updated for 2023]

The scissor lift inspection checklist is a tool used by operators to ensure that scissor lifts are safe to use. While there’s no “official” form (e.g., a document issued by OSHA), it’s recommended that workplaces adopt a standardized checklist describing everything that needs to be inspected.

This eliminates the risk of operators forgetting a critical step during their daily inspection of the equipment. Below we cover the essential categories outlined in a form and recommendations for what should be included in each part of the inspection guide.

The Inspection Form for Scissor Lifts

The form aims to improve and standardize safety procedures by helping the operator inspect the vehicle methodically. The checklist should only be used by the proper personnel, i.e., someone who has been trained to inspect each area described safely.

This checklist is designed for a daily pre-use inspection. Every component should be checked every day that the scissor lift will be operational. If it fails in any category and there’s no immediate fix, you should retire the equipment for maintenance. Respecting the findings of the checklist is a critical safety concern for employers, even if it means that scheduled work can’t happen on that day.

We’ll now go through the scissor lift inspection form category by category.

1. Identifying Data

If your business uses multiple mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), you can save time by creating a checklist that works for various MEWPs. A platform like an aerial lift has similar testing requirements to a scissor lift, and unique categories (e.g., the boom arm on an aerial lift) can be specified in subsequent sections.

The top section, therefore, can include identifying data for the type of MEWP as well as information about:

Its make and model

The name of the inspector or operator

The date

The MEWP’s ID (where appropriate)

You can typically find the make and model information in the manufacturer’s operation manual or on the vehicle itself. A record of the operator who performed the checks is essential for accountability and ensuring that a qualified person inspected the lift pre-use.

2. Power Off Checks

The next section of the checklist is the power-off inspection. Complete these checks before the equipment is turned on. It’s important to conduct this part of the scissor lift inspection first – these components ensure that the scissor lift is safe to switch on.

Below are the areas covered during the power-off inspection. Ensure that you have the required manuals to hand to double-check any areas of doubt.

Exterior Vehicle

The first part of this examination is the exterior components of the machine. This includes:

Wheels and tires

Lights

Mirrors

Tires should be appropriately inflated. Overinflated tires are especially dangerous on MEWPs because they can cause the machine to shudder, potentially dislodging individuals standing on the platform. While the steering isn’t examined at this point, wheel inspections should ensure that the wheels are securely fastened.

All mirrors (internal and external) should be checked. They should be adjustable to accommodate for the day’s operations and clean. You should also keep the vehicle’s lights clean, and report any signs of damage or cracking immediately.

Engine Area

Operators should have the appropriate OSHA-approved training for engine inspections. These checks should include:

Belts & Hoses

Wires

Batteries

The engine compartment should be free from debris and in good condition. Belts should be inspected for signs of wear & tear to avoid potentially disastrous accidents. All wires should be encased in high-quality rubber where appropriate, and any signs of fraying or other visible damage should be reported.

The battery should be protected and checked for leaks. This process shouldn’t take too long, but operators should follow the manufacturer’s manual carefully.

Hydraulics

The hydraulic mechanisms such as cylinders, rods, and hoses should be kept clean. Lifting components should be even to ensure safe operation of the equipment, and any unevenness or signs of impact damage should be reported. If there are any issues with the hydraulic region, proper maintenance should be carried out before the machine is used.

Fluids

The following fluids should be inspected and at the appropriate levels:

Engine oil

Hydraulic oil

Engine coolant

Fuel

Battery fluid

Employers should provide operators with the appropriate safety equipment, training, and materials to address imbalances in fluid levels. This should be carried out before the power-on checks to ensure the proper operation of all components during these tests.

Platform

The platform and lifting mechanism should be checked, including the boom arm on an aerial lift. The platform’s underside should be examined for leaks, loose parts, and debris – this poses a risk if it falls on pedestrians.

The platform’s guardrail is a critical safety feature, and any sign that parts are coming loose merits maintenance. Lifts should also be kept clean, especially the platform’s floor – this should be free from debris from the last use.

Any weather-resistant storage areas on the platform should be functional and secure.

Accessories & Other Considerations

Scissor lifts from different manufacturers may have differing needs. The scissor lift pre-use inspection should reflect this – when you adopt or download an OSHA-compliant checklist, leave space for individual machines’ unique features and safety requirements.

If a discrepancy has been noted at this point, the review may need to stop – it may not be safe to complete the scissor lift inspection by switching the power on. Operators should use their judgment depending on what part of the equipment needs maintenance.

3. Power On Checks

The scissor lift inspection checklist next covers the MEWP’s technology and controls. Operators should test these at the beginning of the day when they’re confident that the power-off checks have all been passed.

Power Checks

Scissor lifts should switch on quickly and without needing repeat attempts. Instruments and gauges should indicate if there’s something wrong (such as fuel levels). All warning lights and alarms should be tested thoroughly – proper use of a scissor lift relies on these safety features alerting pedestrians to potential danger.

Emergency Controls

The emergency controls and safety systems should be examined during inspections. The operators’ manual will explain how to test emergency systems properly.

An operator should refer the matter upwards if there’s any sign that the emergency systems might not be operational – if an accident happens and OSHA finds that the lift had faulty emergency controls, you could be liable for a fine and potentially a lawsuit.

Function Controls

The final step of the power-on inspection is to check the function controls. This includes:

The boom arm (in aerial lifts) or scissor lift extension mechanism

The turret’s rotation system

Driving controls

Steering

Platform controls, like tilting

Stability devices

The operator’s manual will explain which functions need checking and how to do it, page by page. Operators should be free to report quality issues to supervisors and request additional training if they feel unsure at any stage of the inspection.

4. General Checks

This part of the scissor lift inspection checklist covers general concerns, including the vehicle’s safety & hygiene.

The cabin should be free from clutter. The operation manual should be stored on the vehicle at all times. Safety placards and other warnings in the cabin should be displayed prominently and be easy to read.

This section can also be used to detail missing parts or other miscellaneous concerns.

5. Work Area Inspection

Once the vehicle inspection is complete, the work site should be examined. OSHA mandates that proper environmental checks should be carried out before heavy equipment like scissor lifts are deployed.

Ground Conditions

Operators should check the ground area for obstructions, uneven surfaces, and weak areas. An imbalanced scissor lift can cause serious accidents, so it must be deployed on flat, sturdy ground wherever possible.

Pedestrians

Inspections should describe the type of pedestrian traffic near the scissor lift wherever it can be anticipated. If the equipment is operating in a public area, proper cordons should be set up to keep members of the public at a safe distance from the equipment.

On a job site, inspectors must note who will be working around the vehicle and what type of PPE they might need. This will typically include hard hats, high-visibility jackets, and protective footwear. This part of the checklist can be used to prepare the team before work is started.

Electrical & Environmental Hazards

The area should be checked for electrical safety hazards such as overhead power lines. Proper PPE should be provided if the scissor lift is used to repair or maintain electrical equipment. Any area carrying a risk of exposure to electricity must be cordoned off.

This part of the form also covers safety hazards like exposed water mains pipes, potholes, and fire hazards. All potential hazards should be noted on a separate sheet if space isn’t available for each section on the form.

Weather Conditions

A daily lift inspection must include the weather conditions at the start of the day and note the forecast. Inspectors should be wary of high wind warnings or the potential of sudden torrential rain. High temperatures and bright sunlight can also be hazardous; if these are expected to be exceptional, workers might need precautions like sunglasses or regular breaks.

6. Reporting & Tagging

The final section of the form should provide space for the inspector to note any problems identified during the scissor lift inspection. These must be written down during the inspection process – operators shouldn’t wait until the end before making notes, as they may forget a “minor” issue if a more significant problem is identified later.

The form should be signed off with the operator’s name and the date and time of the inspection. It must then be handed to a supervisor – if the supervisor agrees that there are no issues, the equipment can be used.

How to Create a Scissor Lift Inspection Checklist

The best way to create an OSHA-approved inspection checklist is to download a pre-existing form designed for your MEWPs. If your business uses scissor lifts, you can find a document online that details all standard features of this type of equipment and also leaves space for you to add in extra categories where necessary.

Using inspection forms is good practice because it protects workers’ rights as well as your rights as an employer. It ensures that the correct individuals are held accountable for adequately checking the machinery and minimizes the chance of serious accidents.

When to Perform Scissor Lift Inspections

This type of inspection must be performed daily. It takes around 10 minutes to complete if conducted by a trained operator.

You should also schedule in-depth inspections every three months or after every 150 hours of use. Furthermore, OSHA requires you to arrange annual inspections with a specialist engineer. It’s best to arrange these in advance to prevent your equipment from being taken out of commission for too long.

Final Thoughts

A scissor lift checklist is a great way to standardize processes and keep your workers safe. It guarantees that vital equipment is always fully operational and creates accountability in your workplace. Find or create a form that suits your needs and raise your standards today.