TL;DR: OSHA Training for Powered Lifts: What You Need to Know
- Training is lift-specific – OSHA requires separate training for each type of powered lift due to unique operational risks.
- Forklifts & industrial trucks – Must meet truck- and site-specific OSHA training (29 CFR 1910.178).
- Manlifts & aerial lifts – Different rules apply; boom lifts, bucket trucks, and scissor lifts each have distinct requirements.
- Scissor lifts = scaffold training – Covered under OSHA’s scaffold standards (29 CFR 1926.454), not aerial lift rules.
- Compliance is key – Proper training prevents accidents, ensures OSHA compliance, and improves workplace safety.
When it comes to operating powered lifts in the workplace, training isn’t a one-size-fits-all requirement. Each type of lift comes with its own specific risks, operational procedures, and OSHA-mandated training requirements. So, do workers need to be trained separately for each type of powered lift? The short answer: Yes.
OSHA’s Training Requirements: Truck- and Site-Specific Rules
Under OSHA’s industrial truck rule (29 CFR 1910.178(l)), training must be both truck-specific and site-specific. This applies to industrial trucks such as:
- Forklifts
- Tractors
- Platform lift trucks
- Motorized hand trucks
- Other specialized industrial trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines
Each piece of equipment has unique operational challenges and workplace hazards. General training isn’t enough—workers must be trained on the specific truck they’ll use and the worksite conditions where they’ll operate.
What About Manlifts? Different Rules Apply
The term "manlift" can refer to different types of equipment, and each has its own separate training requirements. Here’s how they differ:
1. OSHA-Defined "Manlifts" (29 CFR 1910.68)
This type of manlift is a continuous vertical belt lift with platforms or brackets and handholds. It’s designed exclusively for personnel transport in a single direction.
Training requirements include:
- Only trained and employer-authorized workers may operate them.
- Operators must understand safe use, inspections, and emergency procedures.
2. Aerial Lifts (Boom Lifts, Bucket Trucks) – 29 CFR 1910.67
Aerial lifts are often referred to as “man lifts,” but OSHA classifies them separately. These include boom lifts, bucket trucks, and telescoping or articulating lifts.
Training requirements for aerial lifts include:
- Only trained workers are permitted to operate them.
- For construction use, only authorized personnel can operate them.
What About Powered Platforms? (29 CFR 1910.66)
Powered platforms are commonly used for window washing and high-rise building maintenance. To operate them, workers must:
- Be proficient in operation, inspection, and safety procedures.
- Follow OSHA’s strict fall protection and equipment safety guidelines.
Scissor Lifts – Covered Under Scaffold Training (29 CFR 1926.454)
Unlike aerial lifts, scissor lifts fall under OSHA’s scaffold safety standards. Training for scissor lifts includes:
- Recognizing hazards specific to scaffolding equipment.
- Learning control measures to minimize risks.
Why Proper Training Matters
Safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. Proper training helps prevent accidents, ensures compliance with OSHA regulations, and keeps worksites operating efficiently. Whether it’s a forklift, aerial lift, or scissor lift, having the right knowledge and certification protects workers and minimizes risks.
Neglecting proper training can lead to accidents, injuries, and OSHA violations, making compliance a critical aspect of workplace safety.
Need Aerial Lift or Scissor Lift Training?
At Colorado Training Supply, we offer comprehensive, OSHA-compliant training for:
✅ Aerial Lifts (Boom Lifts, Bucket Trucks, and More)
✅ Scissor Lifts – Scaffold Training
📞 Call us today at 303-537-5832 to schedule your training session!