Fall prevention Construction Injury prevention State Plan states Guidance

MIOSHA releases compliance alternatives for scissor-lift rules

June 30, 2014
Construction falls Construction site safety Construction worker safety Michigan OSHA Scissor lift safety

Lansing, MI – The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration has approved two alternatives for complying with its rules on scissor lifts.

MIOSHA’s Construction Safety and Health Division released a fact sheet on June 25 explaining the alternatives for complying with Rules 3216(3) and (4), which state that the platform’s guardrail system should not be used to support materials, other work platforms or employees. Also, workers should not use railings, planks, ladders or other devices to achieve additional height on the platform.

The alternatives listed on the fact sheet include using approved manufacturers’ attachments and equipment – or adhering to all of the following stipulations:

  • Only use scissor lifts defined in ANSI standard A92.6-1999.
  • Scissor lifts must withstand loads caused by an arrested fall.
  • Scaffold planks should not be used on the extension portion of a scissor lift.
  • Use at least two scaffold planks that can support 4 times the intended load.
  • A box or bracing system must support the two planks.
  • Limit use of the platform to one employee who has a fall restraint or positioning system.
  • Controls cannot be operated on the planked platform.
  • The employee must stand on the lift floor before moving the lift.
  • Planks are not used to exit the lift.
  • Cover holes and openings.
  • Train employees.