Huddle script
On September 11, 2023, a framer fell from a scissor lift and was struck by a 418-pound wooden beam; he died. Washington FACE reports that the beam had been placed unsecured across the top guardrails of two lifts. This account is based on preliminary data, not final determinations about the incident or injury cause. FACE recommends using a forklift, crane or contractor material lift to raise construction materials, rather than a scissor lift. Check the manufacturer's manual and its warnings about materials on guardrails. OSHA advises workers to stand only on the platform, never on the guardrails. Washington FACE; OSHA scissor lift guidance.
Plan together
Adapt these discussion prompts to the task: Can the material be handled without working at height? What suitable material-lifting equipment is available for this load and location? How will the crew confirm the equipment and plan are appropriate? Confirm how workers can stop work and report concerns without retaliation.
OSHA recommends considering elimination or substitution and engineering solutions first, followed by safe work practices and administrative controls, then PPE. FACE recommends material-lifting equipment such as a forklift, crane or contractor material lift. Its guidance also recommends training operators using the manufacturer's manual, including warnings against placing materials on guardrails or extending them beyond guardrails unless the manufacturer approves. OSHA says never exceed the platform's manufacturer load rating. OSHA hazard controls; Washington FACE; OSHA scissor lift guidance.
Before work
- Choose suitable equipment and a method for lifting the materials. Owner: Crew: assign a person Due: Before work
- Review the lift manufacturer's manual and warnings with the operators. Owner: Crew: assign a person Due: Before lift use
- Check the guardrail system is in place and in good working condition; report defects. Owner: Crew: assign a person Due: Before lift use
Adaptable planning prompt: Who will resolve any concern, and by when? How will the crew track it and verify the control works before work proceeds? Close the loop: How will the person who reported the concern learn what was done? Verification question: Are the selected controls in place and working right now? OSHA hazard controls.
Comprehension check
Comprehension check: Where should you stand while working from a scissor lift? Stand only on the platform, never on the guardrails.
Sources
- Framer Struck by Beam after Falling from Scissor Lift — Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Accessed 2026-11-11. lni.wa.gov
- Scaffolding: Scissor Lifts — OSHA. Accessed 2026-11-11. osha.gov
- Hazard Prevention and Control — OSHA. Accessed 2026-11-11. osha.gov