Scissor Lifts Australia
A scissor lift is a type of aerial work platform that raises a large work deck straight up using a pantograph (scissor) mechanism. Unlike a boom lift, a scissor lift provides a wider, more stable platform suited to tasks where multiple workers or heavy tools need to be elevated together — making it the dominant machine for building maintenance, retail fit-outs, warehouse operations and slab-level construction work.
EWP Australia inspects, certifies and carries out major inspections on all scissor lift categories operating across Australia — from compact indoor electric scissor lifts to diesel rough terrain 4WD scissor lifts and bi-energy models designed to transition between sites.
Other Names for This Equipment
All of the above terms refer to equipment within this category. Different industries, regions and manufacturers may use different names — EWP Australia services all of them.
Equipment Variants
Electric Slab Scissor Lift
The most common indoor scissor lift, the electric slab model runs on battery power with non-marking foam-filled tyres. Also called an indoor scissor lift or slab scissor lift, it is widely used in retail, warehouses, schools, hospitals and commercial fit-outs where emissions and floor damage are concerns.
Diesel Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
A diesel or rough terrain scissor lift is built for outdoor use on uneven ground. Also sold as a 4WD scissor lift or all-terrain scissor lift, it features large pneumatic tyres, high ground clearance and powerful diesel drive for construction sites, farms and rural infrastructure projects.
Narrow Scissor Lift
Narrow scissor lifts — sometimes called compact scissor lifts — fit through standard doorways and into tight aisles. They are the preferred choice for maintenance in warehouses, libraries and retail stores with restricted access.
Bi-Energy & Hybrid Scissor Lift
A bi-energy scissor lift pairs an electric drive system with a diesel or petrol generator, enabling the same machine to work indoors quietly on battery and outdoors on engine power. Also called a hybrid scissor lift, it reduces fleet requirements for contractors moving between site types.
Tracked (Crawler) Scissor Lift
A tracked scissor lift uses rubber crawler tracks instead of wheels to distribute ground pressure and improve traction on grass, mud and slopes. Also called a crawler scissor lift, it is popular with event companies, landscape contractors and solar installers.
Push-Around Scissor Lift
A push-around or non-powered scissor lift is manually positioned and operated by a foot-pump or electric actuator. Lightweight and manoeuvrable, it suits low-height maintenance tasks in retail and commercial environments.
How to Choose
Platform Height
Scissor lifts typically range from 6 m to 18 m working height. Match the machine to your highest work point plus 2 m for operator reach.
Indoor vs Outdoor
Electric slab models are for smooth indoor surfaces. Rough terrain, 4WD or tracked models handle outdoor conditions. Bi-energy suits both.
Platform Size
Scissor platforms range from 0.75 m wide (narrow models) to 3 m+ wide work decks. Consider how many workers and how much material must be elevated simultaneously.
Safe Working Load
Check the machine's rated SWL — typically 230 kg to 900 kg. Always account for workers, tools and materials combined.
Who Uses This Equipment
- Commercial construction and fit-out
- Warehousing and logistics
- Retail and shopping centres
- Healthcare and hospitals
- Schools and universities
- Events and exhibitions
- Solar farm installation
- Council and local government
Australian Standards & Inspection
Scissor lifts must be inspected under AS/NZS 2550.10 on an annual basis, with a major inspection at the 10-year mark. As a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), the scissor lift is subject to the EWPA Yellow Card scheme and state-based safe work regulations. EWP Australia performs compliant annual and 10-year major inspections on all scissor lift types.
Common Questions
What is the difference between a scissor lift and a boom lift?
A scissor lift raises a wide work deck straight up using a pantograph mechanism — ideal for tasks needing a stable platform for multiple workers. A boom lift extends an arm outward and upward to reach over obstacles — better when horizontal outreach is needed. Scissor lifts cannot reach over barriers; boom lifts can.
Do scissor lift operators need a licence in Australia?
Scissor lifts (vertical-travel MEWPs) do not require a High Risk Work Licence in most Australian states, though some states have specific rules for boom-type machines. A site induction and documented training to AS/NZS 2550.10 are typically required. Always check with your state regulator.
How often must a scissor lift be inspected?
Annual inspections are required under AS/NZS 2550.10, plus a major inspection at the 10-year mark. High-use machines may need more frequent checks — refer to your machine logbook and manufacturer service schedule.
Can a diesel scissor lift be used indoors?
Diesel scissor lifts produce carbon monoxide and are not safe in enclosed indoor spaces without forced ventilation. For indoor work, choose an electric or bi-energy scissor lift. Always assess ventilation before operating any internal combustion machine indoors.
National Infrastructure Support
Reliable fleet access and major inspection services for government, defence, and top-tier contractors.