The short answer is no

Working on elevated platforms is a common necessity across various industries in Queensland, from construction and maintenance to retail and warehousing. The scissor lift is one of the most commonly used elevated work platforms (EWPs). But can anyone operate a scissor lift in Queensland? The short answer is no. There are specific requirements and regulations in place to ensure safety.

Understanding Scissor Lifts

A scissor lift is a type of mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) that can move vertically to provide workers with access to higher areas. It’s designed with crisscrossing metal supports that extend upward when raised and retract when lowered. These machines are invaluable for tasks that require reaching different heights safely and efficiently.

Legal Requirements for Operating Scissor Lifts

Do I need a High Risk Work Licence for a scissor lift?

No. Scissor lifts of any platform height do not require a High Risk Work (HRW) Licence. The HRW Licence (WP Class) only applies to boom lifts — specifically self-propelled, truck-mounted, or trailer-mounted MEWPs with a boom length over 11 metres. If you are only operating a scissor lift, a HRW Licence is not required regardless of how high it goes.

However, this does not mean anyone can simply jump on and go. Operators must still receive adequate training before operating a scissor lift.

Training

Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) legislation — and its Victorian equivalent (OHS) — requires that operators of plant equipment undergo activity-based instruction and training delivered by a competent person. Verbal instruction alone is not sufficient; there must be written proof of competency.

The industry-standard way to meet this requirement is the EWPA Yellow Card — a nationally recognised training program run by the Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia. The Yellow Card has a dedicated Scissor Lift (SL) module and provides operators with a photo ID licence that can be verified online. It is valid for five years.

Alternatives to the Yellow Card are permitted, provided they include a structured training format delivered by a qualified workplace trainer/assessor with content that meets or exceeds Australian Standard AS2550.10 and the manufacturer’s safe operating procedures.

Training should cover:

• Machine Operation: Understanding how to safely operate the lift, including starting, stopping, steering, and elevating.
• Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards and understanding how to mitigate them.
• Safety Protocols: Following guidelines for safe use, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

When do you need BOTH a HRW Licence and a Yellow Card?

If an operator is required to use a scissor lift AND a boom lift with a boom length over 11 metres, they will need both a HRW Licence (WP Class) for the boom lift and a Yellow Card covering the relevant MEWP types.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have a legal duty under WHS/OHS legislation to ensure all operators are competent and have received adequate training before operating any plant equipment. This includes keeping training current — the EWPA recommends face-to-face renewal training for operators who have not regularly used the machinery in the past 12 months.

Failure to comply with the Act and Regulations can result in significant fines — up to $6,000 for individuals and $30,000 for companies — and in serious cases, imprisonment.

Safety Regulations and Best Practices

Operating a scissor lift involves inherent risks, so adhering to safety regulations and best practices is crucial. Here are some key considerations:

• Pre-Operational Checks: Before using a scissor lift, perform thorough pre-operational checks, including inspecting the lift for any signs of damage, checking fluid levels, and ensuring all controls are functioning correctly.
• Load Limits: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s specified load limits. Overloading the platform can lead to dangerous situations, including tipping or mechanical failure.
• Environment Assessment: Evaluate the work environment for potential hazards such as uneven ground, overhead obstacles, and weather conditions. Ensure that the operating surface is stable and capable of supporting the lift.

Safe Operating Procedures

• Use Fall Protection: Even though scissor lifts have guardrails, using additional fall protection measures like harnesses can enhance safety.
• Avoid Overreaching: Stay within the confines of the guardrails to maintain balance and stability.
• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operation and maintenance.

Conclusion

Scissor lifts do not require a High Risk Work Licence, but that doesn’t mean they can be operated without proper training. Queensland WHS law requires operators to hold evidence of competency — typically the EWPA Yellow Card — before using any MEWP. Employers are responsible for ensuring their operators are trained, and for keeping that training current.

If you’re unsure about the training requirements for your team, contact an EWPA-accredited trainer or visit ewpa.com.au. If you have any questions about hiring a scissor lift for your project, our friendly team is here to help.