When is fall protection required?

Fall protection is required when using both scissor and aerial lifts due to the inherent risks associated with working at heights. These lifts can elevate workers to significant heights, where a fall can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Fall protection measures, such as harnesses, guardrails, or safety nets, help mitigate these risks by providing a safety mechanism that prevents workers from falling off the lift or losing their balance.

The requirement for fall protection is based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, which emphasize the importance of protecting workers from potential fall hazards when they are elevated above ground level, regardless of the type of lift being used. This comprehensive approach ensures that all workers operating lifts are kept safe, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents on the job.