Scissor lifts are a specialized type of aerial lift, designed to lift larger loads and provide more work space. For manufacturing or industrial work where multiple workers need to be on the same platform, a scissor lift is a must-have.
A scissor lift can be powered by gas or electricity. Diesel or gas-powered scissor lifts – often called rough terrain scissor lifts – are better for outdoor use, but can’t be used indoors. Electric scissor lifts are quiet and emission free, which makes them a better choice for use in warehouses or other indoor work.
The most basic consideration when choosing a scissor lift is the height you need to reach. Because the strength of a scissor lift is the size of the platform and weight it can support, you may not find the same lift heights you would in other types of aerial lifts: most can reach heights of 20 to 50 feet. You’ll also need to consider lifting capacity: most scissor lifts can carry from 500 to 2,500 lbs.
While most scissor lifts can only lift straight up and down, some have a feature that lets you shift the platform horizontally several feet. Others allow you to drive the machine around while the platform is raised – but not all do.
