Scissor lifts must have guardrails installed to prevent workers from falling (see 29 CFR 1926.451(g) or 29 CFR 1910.29(a)(3)(vii)). Employers should train workers to: Check to see that a guardrail system is in place before working on the scissor lift. Only stand on the work platform; never stand on the guardrails.

In conclusion, bucket trucks, boom lifts and scissor lifts are all considered to be vehicles. Personal fall protection is required for persons working above 2.4 metres in bucket trucks and boom lifts, regardless of whether the aerial platform is guarded.

ANSI/SIA Standards A92. 5 and A92. 6 section 6.6(2) state aerial lifts should be inspected every three months or 150 hours of use. It's important to follow all OSHA aerial lift inspection guidelines and recommendations for legal reasons and to reduce personal and workplace hazards.

While daily inspections and walkarounds are imperative, scissor lifts and boom lifts also require other regular inspections based on the number of hours they've been in operation. A qualified equipment mechanic should inspect the machines every three months or 150 hours, whichever comes first.

While OSHA does not have a specific standard for the hazard you raised, employee exposure to hazards related to heavy lifting and back injuries may be addressed under Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act, commonly referred to as the General Duty Clause.

OSHA notes that guardrails can provide adequate fall protection on scissor lifts. It also recommends scissor lift operators wear a harness for extra protection against falls. Wearing a harness won't prevent a fall from a scissor lift. But, it can help a scissor lift operator avoid accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

OSHA regulations 29 CFR 1926.451(g) and 29 CFR 1910.29(B) require scissor lifts to always be equipped with adequate guardrails that are in place under all conditions.