Thanks to their flexibility and mobility, most workplaces utilize aerial lifts and scissor lifts for their work. Though both these lifts are heavy machinery helpful in elevating an employee to perform certain tasks, there are key differences between them in terms of their functionality.

This blog explores the core differences between an aerial lift and a scissor lift. Understanding the major differences between the two can help in making informed decisions depending on the task.

What is an aerial lift?

Aerial lifts, also called boom lifts, are vehicle-mounted devices useful in elevating a worker. This kind of machinery can move the personnel in both vertical and horizontal directions and even around a vertical axis. Workers can make use of an aerial lift to perform a task from a raised platform and in addition, they can also carry their equipment and supplies.

Scenarios where you can use an aerial lift

Aerial lifts have their varied uses on the construction site. The versatility of these lifts makes them useful in other industries as well. These lifts are useful in:

  • Tall buildings or power lines
  • Equipment installation in complex settings
  • Pipeline installation
  • Cleaning and maintenance of building walls
  • Manufacturing & maintenance of large equipment
  • Plants, venues and construction sites

Fall protection for aerial lifts

OSHA requires personnel to use a personal fall restraint system while they operate on an aerial lift/3b mobile Boom Lift .

  • A body belt having a tether anchored to the boom
  • Body harness with the lanyard

What is a scissor lift?

Scissor lifts are mobile-supported scaffold work devices that are used to safely move people vertically and to various locations in diverse industries. These kinds of platforms can move only in a vertical direction. Scissor lifts can lift personnel and equipment safely to height.

Scenarios where you can use a scissor lift

Scissor lifts are useful in reaching elevated areas such as:

  • Warehouses
  • Construction sites
  • Ceiling works
  • Fixing power lines
  • Maintenance repairs
  • Hanging signs
  • Hospitals, schools, factories and similar buildings with high ceilings

Fall Protection for scissor lifts

  • As per the guidelines of OSHA, workers must be tied off into the basket of a scissor lift while they start the task.
  • No matter the height or duration of work, people should always be tied off while they operate a scissor lift

Key differences between an aerial lift and a scissor lift

Aerial lift Scissor lift
Extends to great lift heights from 30 to 135 feet can raise personnel up to 60 feet
Moves both vertically and horizontally. can only move vertically
Lightweight and narrow, useful in hard-to-access areas Cannot reach heights
Highly maneuverable Not manoeuvrable
Have space for just one worker Large platforms for heavier weight capacity.
Useful outdoor applications Different models for indoors or outdoors.

Choosing the right MEWP

Now you will have understood the major differences between aerial lifts and scissor lifts. Depending on the accessibility and height of the project, the number of people to be lifted, and the work location, you can choose either of the choice.