Top 5 Safety Checks Before Operating Any Access Platform

Working at height is one of the most high-risk activities on any construction or maintenance site. Access platforms, whether scissor lifts or boom lifts, are designed to make the job safer — but only if the equipment is in proper working condition. A quick inspection before use can help prevent accidents, breakdowns, and costly downtime.

Here are the top five safety checks every operator should perform before using an access platform:

1. Tyres and Wheels

Tyres are your machine’s first line of defence against instability. A damaged or worn tyre can compromise balance, especially on uneven ground.

• Look for visible cuts, cracks, or bulges.

• Ensure wheels are free from debris that could affect traction.

• Check inflation (for pneumatic tyres) or condition (for solid tyres).

Ignoring tyre issues risks tip-overs, uneven lifting, and excessive strain on the hydraulic system.

2. Guardrails and Platform Controls

The platform is the operator’s workspace, and it must provide maximum safety at height.

• Confirm that guardrails and gates are secure and undamaged.

• Test the platform controls for responsiveness.

• Look out for worn buttons, sticky joysticks, or warning lights on the display.

If any controls feel loose or sluggish, the machine should be taken out of service until repaired.

3. Emergency Lowering Systems

Every access platform comes with an emergency descent system — and it must work.

• Test the emergency lowering lever or button before starting operations.

• Check that ground controls can override platform controls.

• Make sure all operators know how to use it in case of a power or hydraulic failure.

A faulty emergency system can put lives at risk if the platform becomes stuck at height.

4. Hydraulic and Oil Leaks

Leaks may start small but can quickly escalate into major failures.

• Inspect the base of the lift for oil patches or drips.

• Look over hoses and fittings for signs of wear.

• Check hydraulic fluid levels where possible.

Even a small leak can cause erratic lifting or complete system failure — and it’s also a slipping hazard for those on the ground.

5. Charge or Fuel Levels

Running out of power mid-job isn’t just inconvenient, it can be dangerous.

• For electric machines, ensure batteries are fully charged and chargers disconnected properly.

• For diesel or hybrid machines, check fuel and AdBlue levels before starting.

• Monitor warning lights to confirm power levels are stable.

A well-prepared operator never takes a platform up without enough energy to complete the task.

Why These Checks Matter

These five checks take just a few minutes but can prevent hours of downtime, expensive repairs, and serious safety incidents. They also ensure compliance with UK workplace regulations such as LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations).

Keep Your Platforms Safe with Access Repairs

At Access Repairs, we specialise in keeping your access equipment safe, reliable, and fully compliant. From preventative maintenance to emergency breakdown repairs, our expert engineers help you minimise downtime and maximise safety.

👉 Contact Access Repairs today to book a service or discuss a tailored maintenance plan for your fleet.