ANSI A92: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

Scissor lifts and boom lifts are called MEWPs (mobile elevating work platforms) in the ANSI A92 standards. Updated in 2018, these standards changed how lifts are designed, how operators are trained, and what employers must plan before work starts.

• Construction
• General Industry
• Rental companies

The main parts

Groups and types

• Group A: the platform stays inside the tipping lines (like most scissor lifts).
• Group B: the platform can move outside the tipping lines (boom lifts).
• Type 1: travels only in the stowed position.
• Type 2: travels elevated, controlled from the chassis.
• Type 3: travels elevated, controlled from the platform.

So a typical scissor lift is a Group A, Type 3 MEWP, and a typical boom lift is Group B, Type 3.

Training and familiarization

• Operators must be trained (theory and hands-on) on the group and type of MEWP they operate.
• Familiarization is required on each specific model before use: controls, safety devices, manuals and limits.
• Occupants riding in the platform need training too, including how to use emergency lowering.
• Supervisors of MEWP operators need training on the rules and hazards.

Safe use program

• Risk assessment for each job: ground, overhead hazards, power lines, wind and traffic
• Selection of the right MEWP for the work
• Rescue plan for getting an occupant down if the MEWP fails
• Inspection before each shift (pre-start) and periodic inspections
• Fall protection as the maker requires (restraint or arrest in boom lifts)

How OSHA fits in

OSHA requires training and treats scissor lifts much like mobile scaffolds and boom lifts as aerial lifts, with fall protection in booms. The A92 standards add detail and are what manufacturers and rental companies follow. See Scissor Lifts and Aerial Lifts.

Last updated: October 2, 2026