Aerial Lift and Scissor Lift Program
Operator training, pre-use inspection, fall protection, and ground conditions.
What this document is
This document is a written Aerial Lift and Scissor Lift Program that contractors can customize for their jobsites. It establishes procedures for operator training, equipment inspection, fall protection, and ground conditions to keep workers safe.
The regulation that requires it
29 CFR 1926.453 governs aerial lifts in construction and requires that employers provide training, ensure safe operating practices, and address fall hazards. The standard adopts ANSI A92 requirements for platform design, stability, and maintenance. It specifically states that "aerial lifts shall be inspected prior to each use" and that "only authorized persons shall operate an aerial lift." California contractors must also meet Title 8 CCR Section 3648, which aligns with the federal rule but adds state-specific enforcement.
Who needs it
General contractors, subcontractors, electrical contractors, plumbing contractors, and any trade that uses boom lifts, scissor lifts, or other aerial platforms need this program. It applies to all employers in California and across the United States who have employees operating this equipment. California contractors face Cal/OSHA enforcement of Title 8 standards that mirror 29 CFR 1926.453 and ANSI A92.
What happens without it
OSHA and Cal/OSHA inspectors routinely check lift programs during site visits and issue citations when written procedures are missing or incomplete. Serious violations currently carry penalties from $16,131 up to $161,323 for willful or repeated violations according to the published OSHA penalty schedule. Multi-employer worksites increase citation risk because controlling contractors can be cited for subcontractor non-compliance. Lack of training documentation often leads to additional citations and possible shutdown of lift operations.
What's included in the generated document
- Purpose and scope
- Definitions and responsibilities
- Operator training and qualification requirements
- Pre-use inspection procedures
- Fall protection and safe work practices
How to implement it at your company
- Talk to Guy first. Describe your operation, trade, and location — Guy draws from 300,000+ verified OSHA and state regulatory citations to build a compliance plan specific to your company. Your answers shape every section of the document you receive. Takes about 10 minutes.
- Download the PDF and edit it with your company name, specific equipment list, and responsible personnel.
- Have your safety manager or qualified person review the document and add any site-specific hazards or procedures.
- Provide the completed program to all employees who operate or work near aerial lifts and document their training.
- Schedule and conduct daily pre-use inspections using the included checklist forms.
- Keep the written program available on every jobsite where lifts are in use and review it annually.