Safety & Compliance · SOP

Mobile Elevated Work Platform Scissor Lift Pre‑Use Inspection Form

Daily systematic inspection procedure for electric and hydraulic scissor lifts. Perform before every shift to identify defects, ensure regulatory compliance (CSA B354.2 / ANSI A92), and prevent falls or mechanical failures.

Estimated Time

15 min

Difficulty

Moderate

Regulation

CSA B354.2

Version

1.0

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Purpose

To establish a standardized pre‑use inspection procedure for scissor‑type mobile elevated work platforms. This SOP ensures that all operators can identify unsafe conditions before operating the machine, reducing the risk of tip‑overs, falls, crushing, and electrical hazards. Compliance with WorkSafeBC, CSA, and ANSI guidelines is maintained through documented daily checks.

Scope

This procedure applies to all scissor lifts (electric‑powered and hydraulic) used on‑site, including rental units. It is the responsibility of the trained operator to complete the inspection before the first use of each shift, after any repair or maintenance, and whenever the machine is moved to a new work area. Supervisors must ensure forms are archived for at least one year.

Safety Precautions

LOTOPerform lockout/tagout on the machine’s charging system and battery disconnect before accessing any electrical components. Never reach past guardrails.
PPEWear hard hat, safety glasses, steel‑toed boots, and high‑visibility vest. Gloves are required when inspecting hydraulic hoses and batteries.
FALLDo not use the lift if guardrails, chains, or gate are damaged or missing. Always use a lanyard attached to a certified anchor point when the platform is elevated.
LIFTNever rely solely on hydraulics — always engage mechanical safety locks before working under the raised platform.
AREAInspect the floor for holes, debris, excessive slopes, or soft surfaces that could cause instability. Barricade the test area during inspection.

Required Tools & Materials

Manufacturer’s operator manual (specific to machine model)
Pre‑use inspection checklist (paper or SafeDesk digital form)
Flashlight for dark‑area inspection
Clean gloves (leather or nitrile)
Lockout/tagout kit + danger tags
Measurement tape (for guardrail gap checks)
Level (digital or bubble) for tilt sensor calibration check
Camera or phone for photo documentation of defects

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Procedure: Step-by-Step

1 Approach & Visual Walk‑Around. Walk around the entire machine. Look for structural damage, fluid leaks, loose bolts, or signs of tampering. Verify the serial plate, load chart, and all safety decals are present and legible.

2 Tires / Casters & Stability. Inspect tires (or base pads) for cuts, bulges, low pressure, or uneven wear. Ensure the machine sits level on the floor and that outriggers (if equipped) deploy and lock smoothly.

3 Guardrails & Entry Gate. Open and close the entry gate. Check that top and mid‑rail tubes are straight and not bent. Verify the latching mechanism holds firmly and that the chain or gate returns automatically.

4 Battery & Charger. Inspect battery terminals for corrosion, cables for fraying, and fluid level (if lead‑acid). Confirm charger cord is undamaged and plug is dry. Press the horn to test the audible alert.

5 Hydraulic Leaks & Cylinders. Examine hoses, fittings, and cylinder rods for leaks, swelling, or chafing. With the engine off but key ON, operate the lift function — platform must rise and lower smoothly with no jerky movement or drift.

6 Controls & Emergency Stop. Test all ground controls: lift/lower, steering (if applicable), and emergency stop push‑button. Then move to platform controls and complete the same test. Every function must stop immediately when the e‑stop is depressed.

7 Safety Devices & Limit Switches. Verify lanyard anchor points are present and undamaged. Test the tilt sensor (if applicable) by manually tilting the platform — the alarm and stop function must engage. Activate the platform limit switch to confirm engine shut‑off.

8 Platform & Floor Condition. Check the platform floor for debris, oil, or slippery substances. Confirm the slip‑resistant surface is intact and that the toe‑kick plate is fixed in place. No tools or loose items should be left on the platform.

9 Document & Tag Results. Complete the inspection form – record machine ID, date, hour meter reading, and any defects found. If any safety item fails, remove the machine from service, apply a lockout tag, and notify a supervisor immediately.

10 Final Communication. Sign and date the form. If the unit passes, attach a green ‘Daily Inspection Passed’ tag to the joystick. If failed, attach a red ‘DO NOT OPERATE’ tag and submit the form electronically or to the maintenance office.

Mobile Elevated Work Platform Scissor Lift Pre‑Use Inspection Form

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