MEWP Training for Boom Lifts & Scissor Lifts (OSHA & ANSI A92 Compliant)

Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Training & Certification

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), including boom lifts and scissor lifts, are widely used in construction, maintenance, and industrial work. While they improve efficiency, they also introduce serious hazards such as falls, tip-overs, and struck-by incidents.

Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.453 (Aerial Lifts) and ANSI A92 standards, employers must ensure operators are properly trained, evaluated, and competent.

KARM Safety Solutions provides MEWP Training for Boom Lifts & Scissor Lifts designed for real-world jobsite conditions and compliance.

OSHA & ANSI Requirements for MEWP Training

MEWP training is governed by:

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1926.453 – Aerial Lifts
  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.67 – General Industry Aerial Lifts
  • ANSI A92.20, A92.22, A92.24 – MEWP Standards

Employers Must Ensure:

  • Operators are trained and evaluated
  • Equipment is used safely
  • Hazards are identified and controlled

Important Compliance Note:
OSHA requires training and evaluation, while ANSI A92 requires formal operator training, familiarization, and supervision.

What Is a MEWP?

A Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) is equipment used to elevate workers to perform tasks at height.

Common Types:

Boom Lifts

  • Extendable arms (articulating or telescoping)
  • Used for reaching over obstacles

Scissor Lifts

  • Vertical lifting platforms
  • Used for stable, straight-up elevation 

Common MEWP Hazards

MEWP incidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to:

  • Falls from height
  • Tip-overs from unstable ground
  • Electrocution from power lines
  • Struck-by or caught-between hazards
  • Equipment misuse

These hazards are frequently cited by OSHA.


What This Training Covers

This course prepares operators for safe MEWP operation:

Equipment Types & Controls

  • Boom lift and scissor lift operation
  • Control functions and limitations

Hazard Recognition

  • Identifying fall and tip-over risks
  • Power line safety
  • Site-specific hazards

Pre-Use Inspections

  • Equipment inspection requirements
  • Identifying defects and hazards

Safe Operation Practices

  • Proper positioning and movement
  • Load capacity and stability
  • Traveling and setup

Fall Protection Requirements

  • Harness use (required in boom lifts)
  • Guardrail system use

OSHA & ANSI Standards

  • 1926.453 requirements
  • ANSI A92 updates and expectations


Who Needs MEWP Training?

This training is essential for:

  • Construction workers
  • Maintenance personnel
  • Warehouse and industrial workers
  • Contractors using aerial lifts
  • Supervisors overseeing elevated work

Anyone operating or riding in a boom lift or scissor lift must be trained and evaluated.


ANSI A92 Updates (Important)

Recent ANSI A92 updates introduced:

  • Expanded training requirements
  • Operator evaluation and familiarization
  • Increased focus on safe use and supervision

Many employers are not fully compliant with these updated standards.


OSHA Inspections & Compliance

OSHA frequently cites MEWP-related violations.

Inspectors may review:

  • Operator training records
  • Equipment inspections
  • Fall protection practices
  • Safe operating procedures

Proper training helps prevent incidents and reduce citations.


Certification & Documentation

Upon completion:

  • Certificate of Completion issued
  • Operator training documentation
  • Evaluation records for compliance

OSHA requires training and evaluation, not a universal operator license.

Why Choose KARM Safety Solutions

KARM provides real-world MEWP training:

  • OSHA and ANSI A92-aligned programs
  • Practical, jobsite-based instruction
  • Focus on hazard recognition and prevention
  • Designed for construction and industrial use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MEWP training required by OSHA?

Yes. OSHA requires operators to be trained and evaluated before operating aerial lifts.

Do boom lifts require fall protection?

Yes. A harness and lanyard are required in most boom lift operations.

Do scissor lifts require a harness?

Generally, no, if guardrails are in place, but site-specific rules may apply. Some job sites require them.

How often is training required?

Refresher training is required when unsafe operation is observed or when conditions change. Not to exceed 3 years per ANSI.

Can training be done online?

Yes, but operator evaluation and familiarization are also required.


Schedule MEWP Training Today

KARM Safety Solutions offers:

  • Boom lift and scissor lift training
  • OSHA and ANSI-compliant programs
  • On-site and online training options

Contact us today to train your team and improve jobsite safety.