Safety & Compliance · SOP

Scissor Lift Annual Certification

Thorough inspection and testing procedure to certify scissor lifts for continued safe operation. Meets CSA B354.7-17 and WorkSafeBC requirements for annual recertification.

Estimated Time

120 min

Difficulty

Advanced

Regulation

CSA B354.7-17

Version

2.0

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Purpose

To provide a standardized, repeatable procedure for annual recertification of scissor lifts to ensure all structural, hydraulic, electrical, and safety systems meet manufacturer specifications and regulatory standards. This SOP minimizes the risk of catastrophic failure, reduces workplace injuries, and maintains compliance with Canadian provincial OHS regulations.

Scope

Applies to all scissor lifts used on company property, including electric, engine‑powered, and rough‑terrain models with a rated capacity of 1,000 lb (454 kg) or less. Excludes boom lifts, mast lifts, and personnel hoists. This procedure must be performed annually by a qualified technician trained on the specific make/model.

Safety Precautions

LOTOPerform lockout/tagout on primary energy source (battery disconnect, fuel shut-off, or electrical plug). Verify zero energy before starting any inspection.
PPEWear safety glasses, hard hat, steel‑toed boots, and cut‑resistant gloves. Use hearing protection if operating near engines.
BARRErect barriers around the lift during load test. Keep all non‑essential personnel outside the barrier zone. Maximum test weight 110% of rated capacity.
FALLIf working on platform at height during inspection, use a full‑body harness lanyard attached to an engineered anchor point. Do not climb on scissor arms.

Required Tools & Materials

Scissor lift manufacturer’s service manual
Inspection checklist (CSA B354.7‑17 or equivalent)
Calibrated torque wrench (range covering wheel nuts and pivot bolts)
Digital multimeter
Hydraulic pressure gauge set (0‑5000 psi)
Test weights (rated capacity plus 10%)
Lockout/tagout kit with padlocks and tags
Full‑body harness and lanyard
Personal protective equipment as listed above
Camera or smartphone for documentation
Certification sticker and report form

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Procedure: Step-by-Step

1 Pre‑inspection hazard assessment. Park the lift on level, solid ground. Lock out and tag out all energy sources. Place signage and barricades. Verify lifting capacity, model, and serial number before beginning.

2 Visual inspection of structure. Inspect scissor arms for cracks, bending, or weld defects. Check platform deck for corrosion or perforations, guardrails for secure mounting, and entrance gate for self‑closing latch. Document any damage.

3 Hydraulic system check. Examine all hoses, fittings, and cylinders for leaks, chafing, or abrasion. Verify hydraulic oil level and condition. Replace filter if service interval is due. Record pressure readings at idle and under load.

4 Electrical system test. On electric models, check battery voltage (minimum 12.4V under no load), clean terminals, and verify charger operation. Test all limit switches, emergency stop, and tilt sensor by simulating conditions.

5 Functional test of controls. Using both ground and platform controls, raise and lower the platform through full range. Test drive and steering (if applicable). Verify that the platform does not drift when controls are released. Check for smooth operation without jerking.

6 Load test at rated capacity. Place test weights equal to 110% of rated platform capacity at the centre of the platform. Slowly raise to full height and lower three times. Monitor for unusual sounds, pressure drops, or structural deflection. Approve only if no anomalies detected.

7 Torque critical fasteners. Using calibrated torque wrench, tighten wheel nuts, scissor pivot pins, scissor arm mounting bolts, and platform attachment points to manufacturer’s specified torques. Record as‐found and final torque values.

8 Final documentation and sticker. Record all measurements, test results, and observations on the certification form. If no failures, affix the annual certification sticker to the lift (visible near controls). Sign and date. Submit report to safety file.

Scissor Lift Annual Certification

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