MEWP Safety: Keeping Mobile Elevating Work Platforms Compliant

If your crews use scissor lifts or booms for HVAC replacements, lighting maintenance, or signage installs, OSHA expects you to manage those platforms like any other high-hazard machine. The 2020 ANSI A92 updates introduced new classifications, load sensors, and supervisor training requirements, yet many small contractors still rent lifts and hope the rental yard handled compliance. That assumption will not survive the next OSHA inspection—or the next tip-over. Here’s the playbook.

Know Your MEWP Classification

ANSI A92 reorganized lifts into Groups (A: vertical projection inside wheelbase, B: platforms that can extend beyond) and Types (1: travel with platform retracted, 2: travel with platform elevated but controlled from chassis, 3: travel with platform elevated and controlled from platform). Document which models you use, their group/type, and the tasks they support. This classification drives training content, fall protection requirements, and rescue plans.

Inspect Before Every Shift

Operators must complete a pre-start inspection that covers guardrails, gates, tires, brakes, outriggers, emergency lowering systems, pothole protection, load-sensing alarms, and decals. Use a checklist tied to the specific model so nothing gets missed. Any deficiency—beeping load sensor, leaking hydraulics, cracked weld—means the lift stays grounded until repaired. Keep inspection records for at least a year; OSHA has been citing employers who cannot prove daily checks occurred.

Control the Work Zone

Surface conditions cause many tip-overs. Verify floor load ratings, fill potholes, block off traffic, and avoid setting outriggers on frozen ground without shoring. When working near energized lines, maintain minimum approach distances and use insulating guards. Indoors, watch for low clearance, sprinkler heads, and unprotected mezzanine edges. Assign a spotter when visibility is limited, especially when driving near pedestrians or loading docks.

Train Operators and Supervisors

ANSI A92 requires documented training for both operators and supervisors. Operators need theory (stability, load charts, fall protection) and hands-on practice that matches the exact group/type. Supervisors must understand how to select the right MEWP, evaluate the work zone, and verify the operator is qualified. Refreshers are triggered when unsafe operation is observed, equipment is modified, or job conditions change—don’t wait for an annual date. Capture sign-offs and proficiency checks in Worksafely SMB or your training LMS.

Tether Everyone and Plan Rescue

Fall protection expectations differ by platform type, but best practice is simple: tie off anytime there is a risk of ejection. On boom lifts, full-body harnesses with shock-absorbing lanyards or SRLs are mandatory. On scissors, local regulations vary, but many owners now require harnesses when guardrails are removed or when working near openings. Plan for rescue: can you lower the lift from the ground? Do you have a second lift or ladder truck available if controls fail? Practice rescue drills so no one learns during a real emergency.

Manage Load and Tools

Modern MEWPs include overload sensors that prevent elevation when capacity is exceeded. Teach crews to calculate combined weight of people, tools, and materials. Prohibit makeshift material racks or leaning lumber outside the rails. Secure tools to prevent dropped-object incidents, and keep extension cords and welding leads tidy so they don’t snag controls.

Coordinate With Rental Partners

Rental yards should provide inspection logs and proof of annual ANSI-required examinations, but you need to ask. Document acceptance inspections when the lift arrives, note any damage, and verify manuals stay with the machine. When returning equipment, report issues so the next renter isn’t surprised—and so you aren’t blamed.

Next step: Add your MEWPs or go-to rental vendors to Worksafely SMB so operator training, inspection records, and rescue plans live next to each lift’s profile.