Imagine your employees working diligently on an aerial work platform when suddenly, the equipment malfunctions, creating a life-threatening situation. This scenario, while alarming, represents a very real risk in workplaces with inadequate safety measures. In 2016, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued guideline 3842 specifically addressing aerial work platform accidents, particularly fatal incidents involving scissor lifts—a clear indication of the severity of this issue.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 300-400 workers are injured annually while operating aerial lifts or scissor lifts. More tragically, an average of 20-25 workers lose their lives each year while operating mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), aerial work platforms (AWPs), scissor lifts, and similar equipment. These statistics serve as a stark reminder that aerial work safety demands immediate attention.

The primary causes of these accidents typically fall into several common scenarios. Below are the most prevalent types of AWP incidents:

Improperly balanced or overloaded scissor lifts and aerial platforms are particularly susceptible to tipping over. In the United States, this common aerial lift accident represents a fundamental cause of multiple fatal scissor lift incidents annually. While tip-overs occur more frequently with aerial lifts due to their predominant outdoor use, scissor lifts can also overturn. Even in indoor environments, tipping remains a leading cause of scissor lift accidents.

From pneumatic system failures to worn wiring and inadequate safety restraints, various equipment deficiencies can lead to scissor lift accidents. A comprehensive maintenance program can identify potential equipment defects before they create hazardous situations. Regular, thorough inspections of aerial lifts are essential for preventing accidents or fatalities caused by equipment malfunctions.

Careless operation may result in scissor lift or aerial work platform accidents where operators become pinned between the lift and other objects. Potential hazards include trees, bridges, walls, and overhead obstacles. The most effective prevention method involves proper training and OSHA-compliant certification.

Falls represent the most common cause of fatalities involving aerial lifts and scissor lifts, often resulting in serious injuries. Contributing factors include operator negligence, carelessness, and failure to use appropriate fall protection systems. OSHA recommends using safety harnesses, and operators should always remain within the platform's guardrails when working on AWPs.

Operating guidelines encompass both the manufacturer's manual and an organization's specific safety protocols. To prevent aerial lift accidents, all operators must thoroughly understand both their equipment and work environment. Proper practical training and certification significantly increase compliance with these critical guidelines.

Preventing aerial lift and scissor lift accidents begins with the ground surface. From cherry pickers to boom lifts to scissor lifts, all aerial work platforms require solid, stable foundations. For outdoor work especially, employees should always operate MEWPs on flat, even surfaces, avoiding mud, water, slopes, and other hazardous conditions.

Overhead power lines present a constant hazard. Contact between workers, equipment, and live wires can result in electrocution and severe injuries. Before beginning work, survey the area for dangerous power lines. When work must occur near electrical lines, additional specialized training becomes essential.

Accidents often originate from hazards that initially appear insignificant but can ultimately lead to serious incidents, injuries, or fatalities. Comprehensive training programs that address these common aerial work platform hazards provide the most effective protection for workers.