The answer to whether you can drive a scissor lift while elevated is nuanced and depends entirely on the specific machine and its operational conditions. Some lifts are engineered for limited movement at height, but the practice is highly restricted and subject to stringent safety guidelines. The decision to move an elevated lift is never a matter of convenience; it is a calculation of engineering and risk management.
The Fundamental Rule of Operation
The default position in the industry is that a scissor lift should only be driven when the platform is fully lowered. This guidance is based on the inherent stability risks that accompany elevated operation. Any deviation must be explicitly approved by the manufacturer. The machine’s Owner’s Manual provides Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) guidelines detailing the maximum allowable drive height and the precise conditions for movement at elevation. If the manual does not specify an allowance for elevated travel, the lift must be lowered before repositioning.
Why Driving While Elevated Is Dangerous
The core danger of driving a scissor lift at height is the reduction in stability caused by the physics of the elevated load. When the platform rises, the machine’s center of gravity shifts significantly upward, making the MEWP susceptible to dynamic forces. Even a small obstacle, like a pothole or debris, can translate into a magnified jolt at the elevated platform. Acceleration or sudden deceleration creates inertia and horizontal forces that can overcome the machine’s stability limits. This combination increases the risk of a tip-over incident.
Distinguishing Between Lift Types
The capacity for a scissor lift to move while elevated is determined by its design classification and intended work environment. Scissor lifts are broadly categorized into two types with differing mobility allowances. Standard electric or slab lifts are designed for smooth, level, indoor surfaces and typically have zero tolerance for elevated movement due to their narrower base and lighter weight. Rough-terrain or diesel-powered lifts are engineered for challenging outdoor environments. These machines feature rugged tires, a wider stance, and four-wheel drive, permitting limited, slow-speed movement at height only when the ground is firm and relatively level.
Regulatory Standards and Compliance
The safe operation of mobile elevating work platforms is governed by regulatory bodies, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) in the United States. These standards classify MEWPs based on their function and movement capabilities. Under the ANSI A92 standards, lifts allowing elevated movement controlled from the platform are classified as Type 3 machines. Regulations mandate that employers must develop and document a formal risk assessment and site safety plan before any MEWP operation. Non-compliance with manufacturer guidelines or safety regulations can result in significant legal penalties.
Conditions for Permitted Movement
When a scissor lift is designed and rated for elevated movement, operation must adhere to strict parameters to maintain stability. Movement must occur only at the machine’s mandatory creep speed, the slowest functional setting. Driving faster than this designated speed is prohibited. Movement is only permitted on a firm, level, and smooth surface, as slight inclines compromise stability. Environmental factors, such as maximum wind speed, must be monitored and must not exceed the manufacturer’s specified limits.
Operator Training and Best Practices
Safe scissor lift operation requires formal certification and adherence to best practices. All operators must complete training that covers theoretical knowledge and a hands-on practical evaluation for the specific class of MEWP being used. This training ensures proficiency and understanding of the machine’s limitations. A pre-shift inspection, often called a walk-around check, must be completed daily to verify that all controls and safety devices are in proper working order. Operators must also strictly adhere to the posted load capacity limits, which account for the total weight of personnel, tools, and materials on the platform.