Operating a Boom Lift or Scissor Lift may look simply, but every safe and productive job starts
before the platform goes up. A quick, systematic pre-operation inspection helps prevent breakdowns, protects operators, and ensures your worksite stays compliant.
If your team regularly works at height, these checks should become a non-negotiable habit—just like harnessing up.
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Start With a Full Visual Walkaround
Before stepping onto the platform, circle the equipment once—slowly.
Look for:
- Damaged guardrails
- Cracked or worn tyres
- Leaks under the machine
- Loose bolts or missing pins
A few seconds of visual checks can save hours of downtime. If you rent equipment from
Mtandt Rentals, every machine already comes pre-inspected, but operators should still validate the condition on-site.
Scissor Lift | Boom Lift
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Test All Controls on the Ground First
Every machine reacts differently depending on site conditions.
Before elevating:
- Test lift, lower, steer and emergency stop.
- Check for unusual sounds or sluggish movement.
- Confirm that decals and limit markings are clearly visible.
Ground-level function testing ensures the platform performs exactly how you expect once you’re elevated.
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Ensure the Work Zone Is Clear
Before moving the lift:
- Look up for cables, ducting, or any part of the structure that could obstruct elevation.
- Mark a safe radius around the machine with cones.
- Check surface grade—boom lifts and scissors need firm, level ground.
Your “safe work zone” is as important as the lift itself. Clearing the area helps prevent tip-overs and collisions—two of the most common causes of aerial lift accidents.
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Inspect Guardrails and Platform Components
A lift is only as reliable as its platform.
- Ensure all rails are secured
- Test entry gates
- Check platform extension (for scissor lifts)
- Confirm anchor points for harness lanyards
If any component feels loose or stiff, stop operation and report it immediately.
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Verify the Safety Essentials
Never elevate without confirming:
- Emergency lowering system works
- Load capacity matches the task
- Operator has the right PPE
- Weather conditions are suitable
- Battery/fuel levels are adequate
These checks keep the lift stable and help avoid mid-operation issues. When you rent from
Mtandt Rentals, machines come fully maintained—your team only needs to perform on-site validation to stay compliant.
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Review Documentation & Operator Qualification
Every lift has its own limitations.
Operators must:
- Know the model’s operating manual
- Understand alarms and warnings
- Be trained for the specific equipment type
If you need trained operators or guided induction, Mtandt Rentals provides support as part of their rental service.
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FAQs
- How often should pre-operation checks be done for boom or scissor lifts?
Before
every single shift. Even if the lift was inspected yesterday, site conditions may have changed today.
- Does Mtandt Rentals provide inspected and certified lifts?
Yes. All Boom Lifts and Scissor Lifts from Mtandt Rentals undergo routine maintenance and safety checks before delivery. Operators only need to confirm the on-site condition again.
- What should I do if I find an issue during inspection?
Stop operation immediately. If it’s a rental machine, contact Mtandt Rentals for quick replacement or service support. Never operate a lift with visible damage or malfunction.
