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    OSHA Operator - Forklift Training & Certification
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    MEWP guide

    Scissor lift certification

    Scissor lift certification means an operator has completed theory training, a hands-on evaluation and familiarization on the specific scissor lift, as ANSI A92.22 and A92.24 describe. Most scissor lifts are Group A MEWPs. In construction, OSHA treats scissor lifts as mobile scaffolds with training rules in 29 CFR 1926.454.

    Last reviewed: · Published by OSHA Operator · Editorial standards

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    Quick facts

    ANSI groupUsually Group A, Type 3
    OSHA (construction)Mobile scaffold rules, training in 1926.454
    Fall protectionGuardrails; follow the manufacturer's instructions on harness use
    Our courseTheory, $25 add-on with forklift training

    What is a scissor lift?

    A scissor lift raises a platform straight up on crossed, folding supports. The platform stays above the base, so it is a Group A MEWP. Most scissor lifts can drive while raised and are controlled from the platform, which makes them Type 3. Slab scissors are for smooth floors; rough terrain scissors are for outdoor use.

    What does ANSI require for scissor lift training?

    ANSI/SAIA A92.22 covers safe use of MEWPs and A92.24 covers training. Together they expect operators to receive theory training, a practical evaluation by a qualified person, and familiarization on the specific make and model before use. Supervisors and occupants also have training responsibilities under these standards.

    ANSI A92.20 classifies MEWPs into groups and types, which training must address:

    • Group A: the platform stays within the tipping lines in every position (for example, most scissor lifts and vertical mast lifts).
    • Group B: the platform can move beyond the tipping lines (for example, boom lifts and cherry pickers).
    • Type 1: may travel only in the stowed position.
    • Type 2: may travel elevated, controlled from the chassis.
    • Type 3: may travel elevated, controlled from the platform.

    What does OSHA require?

    OSHA has no single MEWP standard. In general industry, 29 CFR 1910.67 covers vehicle-mounted elevating and rotating work platforms and says only trained persons may operate an aerial lift. In construction, 29 CFR 1926.453 covers aerial lifts, including that only authorized persons may operate them and that a body harness or restraint with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket is worn in boom-supported lifts. Scissor lifts are treated by OSHA as mobile scaffolds in construction, with training requirements in 29 CFR 1926.454.

    Overhead power lines are a leading cause of aerial lift deaths. 29 CFR 1910.333(c)(3) generally requires unqualified persons and conductive objects to stay at least 10 feet from energized overhead lines of 50 kV or less, with greater distances for higher voltages.

    How to get trained online with OSHA Operator

    Our MEWP course covers theory for Group A and Group B, Types 1 and 3, and is designed to align with 29 CFR 1910.67 and 1926.451-454, ANSI/SAIA A92.20, A92.22 and A92.24. It is a $25 add-on sold only with forklift training. Before operating, the employer must provide a hands-on practical evaluation by a qualified person and familiarization on each MEWP make and model, and authorize the operator.

    Common scissor lift hazards

    Training should cover the hazards that cause most scissor lift incidents.

    • Tip-overs from driving onto slopes, holes or soft ground while raised.
    • Falls when climbing on or leaning over guardrails.
    • Crushing against ceilings or beams when raising the platform.
    • Overloading beyond the platform's rated capacity, including wind limits outdoors.
    • Contact with overhead power lines.

    Get forklift + MEWP training together

    MEWP training is sold as a $25 add-on with forklift training ($69 per operator). It is not sold on its own. Both courses are self-paced online, and your employer still completes the hands-on evaluation and familiarization on each machine.

    Forklift + MEWP bundle Team seats

    Frequently asked questions

    Yes, in practice. OSHA requires trained operators, and ANSI A92.24 requires theory training, a practical evaluation and familiarization.

    In construction, OSHA treats scissor lifts as mobile scaffolds rather than aerial lifts, with training rules in 1926.454.

    Guardrails are the primary fall protection on scissor lifts. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and your employer's rules on harness use.

    No. MEWP training is sold only as a $25 add-on with forklift training ($69 per operator), or for an operator who already has a forklift seat.

    The employer provides a hands-on practical evaluation by a qualified person and familiarization on each MEWP make and model, and authorizes the operator.

    Related guides

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    OSHA Compliance Disclosure

    OSHA Operator is a private training provider. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the U.S. Department of Labor. Our online courses are designed to deliver the formal instruction component of powered industrial truck operator training described in 29 CFR 1910.178(l). Under federal regulation, the employer remains responsible for workplace-specific practical training, the on-equipment operator evaluation, and refresher training. We provide the documentation and evaluation forms your supervisor needs to complete the on-site portion.