What Is a Scissor Lift? A Practical Guide to Safe, Efficient Vertical Access

Scissor lifts are one of the most widely used powered access platforms in the UK, and for good reason. They’re simple, stable, and highly effective for working at height where straight-up vertical access is all that’s required.

If you work in construction, facilities management, warehousing, maintenance, or installation, chances are you’ve used a scissor lift before. But understanding exactly how they work, what they’re best suited for, and how to choose the right model can make a real difference to safety, productivity, and long-term cost.

As the UK’s largest independent supplier of powered access equipment, Access Platform Sales (APS) supplies a wide range of new and Approved Used scissor lifts, backed by nationwide servicing, LOLER inspections, parts, and training through APS Aftercare.

This guide explains what a scissor lift is, how it works, where it’s best used, and what to consider before buying or upgrading your equipment.

What Is a Scissor Lift?

A scissor lift is a type of powered access platform designed to lift operators vertically to a working height. It uses a stacked, criss-crossing metal support structure (the “scissor” mechanism) that expands and contracts as the platform is raised or lowered.

Unlike boom lifts or cherry pickers, scissor lifts do not provide horizontal outreach. Instead, they focus on straight-up access, offering a large, stable working platform that stays level throughout the lift.

Because of their design, scissor lifts are:

• Highly stable at height
  
• Simple to operate
  
• Ideal for tasks that require space for tools or materials
  
• Well-suited to repetitive or long-duration work
  

They are commonly used both indoors and outdoors, depending on the model.

How Does a Scissor Lift Work?

A scissor lift raises and lowers using hydraulic, electric, or pneumatic power. As pressure is applied, the scissor arms extend upward in a vertical motion, lifting the platform evenly from all sides.

Key components include:

• The scissor stack (cross-braced arms)
  
• Hydraulic or electric drive system
  
• Platform deck with guardrails
  
• Control system (platform and ground controls)
  
• Safety systems such as tilt sensors, emergency stop functions, and overload protection
  

Because the lift travels straight up, the platform remains stable and predictable, which is one of the main reasons scissor lifts are often preferred for indoor and controlled environments.

What Are Scissor Lifts Used For?

Scissor lifts are chosen when the task requires safe vertical access with space to work, rather than reach or manoeuvrability.

Common applications include:

• Warehousing and logistics
  
• Facilities maintenance
  
• Mechanical and electrical installation
  
• HVAC and ducting work
  
• Retail and commercial fit-outs
  
• Manufacturing and factory maintenance
  
• Stock picking and racking access
  

In many of these environments, the ability to work comfortably with tools, parts, or multiple operators on the platform is just as important as the working height itself.

Types of Scissor Lifts

Not all scissor lifts are the same. Choosing the right type depends on where and how the machine will be used.

Electric Scissor Lifts

Electric scissor lifts are designed primarily for indoor use.

They are:

• Quiet
  
• Emission-free
  
• Compact and easy to manoeuvre
  
• Ideal for smooth, level floors
  

These models are widely used in warehouses, shopping centres, factories, and commercial buildings.

Diesel Scissor Lifts

Diesel scissor lifts are built for outdoor environments and heavier workloads.

They offer:

• Higher lifting capacity
  
• Greater platform size
  
• More power for uneven ground
  
• Better performance in harsh conditions
  

These are commonly used on construction sites and external maintenance projects.

Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts

Rough terrain scissor lifts are a specialised category designed for sites where ground conditions are unpredictable.

Features typically include:

• Large, foam-filled tyres
  
• Four-wheel drive
  
• Levelling outriggers
  
• Increased ground clearance
  

These machines are ideal for construction, civils, and outdoor infrastructure work.

Scissor Lift Working Heights and Capacities

Scissor lifts are available in a wide range of working heights, typically from around 6 metres up to 18 metres, depending on the model.

Key considerations include:

• Working height (not just platform height)
  
• Platform capacity (number of operators plus tools)
  
• Deck extension options
  
• Overall machine dimensions for access and transport
  

APS helps customers select machines based on real-world usage, not just headline specifications.

Scissor Lifts vs Other Access Platforms

Scissor lifts are often compared with other MEWPs such as boom lifts and cherry pickers.

In simple terms:

• Scissor lifts are best for vertical access and platform space
  
• Boom lifts provide height and horizontal outreach
  
• Cherry pickers offer flexible up-and-over access in compact formats
  

If your work involves reaching over obstacles, a scissor lift may not be suitable. But if the job is directly above and requires stability, they’re often the most efficient solution.

Safety, LOLER and Compliance

Scissor lifts are lifting equipment and are therefore subject to LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations).

This means:

• They must undergo a LOLER thorough examination every six months when used to lift people
  
• They must be properly maintained and suitable for the task
  
• Operators must be trained and competent
  
• Safety systems must be fully functional
  

APS provides nationwide LOLER inspections, servicing, and compliance support through APS Service Plans, removing the administrative burden from customers and ensuring machines remain safe and legal.

Maintenance and Servicing

Regular maintenance is essential to keep a scissor lift operating safely and reliably.

Typical servicing covers:

• Hydraulic systems
  
• Electrical components
  
• Drive motors and brakes
  
• Control systems
  
• Safety devices
  
• Structural integrity
  

APS offers fixed-price service plans with Aftercare, that include:

• Two six-monthly LOLER examinations
  
• Annual full-service
  
• Labour, travel, and consumables
  
• Detailed inspection reports
  
• Predictable costs with no hidden extras
  

This approach reduces downtime and extends the working life of the equipment.

New vs Approved Used Scissor Lifts

Many businesses choose Approved Used scissor lifts as a cost-effective alternative to buying new.

APS’s Approved Used machines:

• Are thoroughly inspected
  
• Meet strict performance standards
  
• Are supplied with certification
  
• Offer excellent value for money
  

This makes them particularly popular with rental fleets, contractors, and businesses expanding their access equipment without over-stretching budgets.

Choosing the Right Scissor Lift

When selecting a scissor lift, APS typically advises customers to consider:

• Working height requirements
  
• Indoor or outdoor use
  
• Ground conditions
  
• Platform size and capacity
  
• Frequency of use
  
• Transport and access constraints
  
• Budget and lifecycle cost
  

Because APS is an independent supplier, advice is based on suitability, not brand preference.

Why Buy a Scissor Lift from APS?

APS has supported the powered access industry since 1987 and is the UK’s largest independent supplier of access platforms.

Customers choose APS for:

• Extensive stock availability
  
• New and Approved Used machines
  
• Leading manufacturers, including LGMG, Genie, Hinowa, Niftylift, BoSS, Wienold Lift and ToughLift
  
• Nationwide delivery
  
• Flexible finance options
  
• Industry-leading aftercare through APS Aftercare
  

From initial advice to long-term support, APS provides a complete solution for working at height.

FAQs

What is a scissor lift used for?
Scissor lifts are used for vertical access tasks such as maintenance, installation, warehousing, and construction work where platform space and stability are required.

Do scissor lifts need LOLER inspections?
Yes. Scissor lifts must undergo a LOLER thorough examination every six months when used to lift people.

Can scissor lifts be used outdoors?
Yes. Diesel and rough terrain models are specifically designed for outdoor use.

Are electric scissor lifts suitable for indoor use?
Yes. Electric scissor lifts are quiet, emission-free, and ideal for indoor environments.

Does APS supply Approved Used scissor lifts?
Yes. APS offers a wide range of Approved Used scissor lifts, fully inspected and supported.

Find the Right Scissor Lift with APS

Whether you’re upgrading your fleet or buying your first access platform, choosing the right scissor lift is about more than height alone. Stability, safety, compliance, and long-term support all matter.

APS supplies one of the UK’s widest ranges of scissor lifts, backed by expert advice, nationwide aftercare, and full compliance support through APS Aftercare.

To view available models or speak to a specialist, visit our selection of Scissor Lifts here or call 01480 891251.