Short answer: no high risk work licence is required for scissor lifts in NSW — but that doesn’t mean anyone can just hop on.
The actual rules
- Scissor lifts (any height): no WP high risk work licence required, because they’re vertically-elevating platforms, not boom-type. Operators must still be trained and competent under WHS law — the EWPA Yellow Card is the industry-standard evidence.
- Boom lifts 11m and over: a WP class high risk work licence from SafeWork NSW is required. This applies to boom-type EWPs like our 34ft knuckle boom — confirm the specific machine’s boom length when booking.
- Under-11m booms: no WP licence, but Yellow Card training strongly recommended.
What “trained and competent” means in practice
Your PCBU obligations require operators to be instructed on the specific machine type: pre-start checks, controls, emergency descent, harness rules (booms yes; scissors generally no harness required unless the risk assessment says so), and site hazards. A Yellow Card course covers this and takes about half a day.
What we’ll ask
When you hire from Equip Hire we’ll talk through who’s operating and their experience. If nobody on the crew is confident, select “Yes, please quote this” for an operator in the quote form — often cheaper than a stalled first morning.
Rules current at publication; confirm with SafeWork NSW for your situation.
FAQs
Is the Yellow Card a legal licence? No — it’s nationally recognised training evidence, not a statutory licence. For scissors, it’s the practical standard.
Can an apprentice operate? Only with training, competence and supervision per your safe work method statement.
Need a machine for this job? Get a hire quote — tell us the job and suburb and we’ll quote the right machine and delivery. Or use Help Me Choose. Call 0472 721 234.