Do You Need Certification to Rent a Scissor Lift in Ontario?

Introduction

Renting a scissor lift in Ontario can be a huge asset for construction, maintenance, and industrial projects. But there’s one question contractors and site supervisors often ask: “Do I need scissor lift certification to rent or operate a scissor lift in Ontario?”

Short answer: Yes — for operation, not for rental.

Let’s break it down so you don’t get caught offside with safety laws or workplace liability.

What Is a Scissor Lift and Why Is Certification Important?

A scissor lift is a type of aerial work platform (AWP) used for vertical elevation. It’s commonly used for indoor electrical jobs, exterior siding, warehouse installs, and more.

Because these lifts elevate workers off the ground, they’re classified as “powered mobile equipment” under Ontario health and safety regulations. That means training and certification are required before operation.

Do You Need Certification to Rent a Scissor Lift?

No, you do not need certification to rent — but the operator must be certified.

Rental companies like NAM Rentals will not require proof of certification at the time of booking. However, it is your legal responsibility to ensure that:

• The operator is trained under Working at Heights (WAH) guidelines
• The operator has completed MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) training
• The worksite is compliant with Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
  

Failure to comply can result in:

• Jobsite shutdowns
• Heavy fines
• Workplace injuries or liability claims
  

What Certification Is Required to Operate a Scissor Lift in Ontario?

Here’s what your crew needs before operating a lift:

1. Working at Heights Certification
   Mandated by Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, this ensures workers understand fall protection, harness use, and risk assessment.
2. MEWP Training (Scissor Lift-Specific)
   MEWP is a CSA-standard training covering lift types, safe operation, and inspection protocols. It must be provided by a certified trainer and includes both theory and practical assessments.
3. Site-Specific Orientation
   Many general contractors or commercial job sites will also require a site-specific safety orientation.
   

Who Is Responsible for Ensuring Certification?

In Ontario, the employer or contractor is responsible for ensuring that:

• Operators are trained
• Certifications are up-to-date
• Records are available for inspection by MOL (Ministry of Labour) officials
  

Even if you rent from a third-party provider, liability falls on the jobsite supervisor and employer.

Can I Get Certified Online?

Yes — many recognized providers offer online + in-person hybrid options:

• 4Safe
• Ontario Safety Training
• Safety First Training
• Herc Safety (if you’re an existing customer)
  

Ensure any course includes CSA B354 compliance and has a practical evaluation component.

What Happens If You Use a Scissor Lift Without Certification?

Operating without valid training or certification can result in:

• MOL orders and work stoppage
• Fines ranging from $500 to $25,000
• Serious injuries and insurance denial
  

Ontario takes workplace safety seriously. Don’t risk your crew or your contract.

Renting a Scissor Lift? NAM Rentals Has You Covered

At NAM Rentals, we offer:

• Fully inspected, jobsite-ready scissor lifts
• Flexible daily, weekly, and monthly rental rates
• 24/7 delivery across Toronto and the GTA
  

Need help finding a CSA-certified training provider? We can connect you.

Call +1 437-999-0659 or request a quote online today.

FAQs About Scissor Lift Certification in Ontario

Question: Can I rent a scissor lift without a license?
Answer: Yes, but the person operating it must be certified. The rental itself doesn’t require a license.

Question: How long does MEWP certification last?
Answer: Most MEWP and WAH certifications are valid for 3 years in Ontario.

Question: Do indoor scissor lifts require certification too?
Answer: Yes — regardless of location, certification is mandatory for all scissor lift use.

Question: Does NAM Rentals provide training?
Answer: Not directly, but we can recommend certified third-party trainers across Ontario.

Question: What qualifications do you need to operate a scissor lift?

Answer: In Ontario, operators need a valid Working at Heights certification and MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) training specific to scissor lifts. These must meet CSA B354 standards.

Question: Who can use a scissor lift?

Answer: Only individuals who have completed approved training and certification for scissor lift use under Ontario’s health and safety laws. Operators must also be at least 18 years old and authorized by their employer.

Question: Do you need training to operate a scissor lift?

Answer: Yes. Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), certified training is mandatory before operating any type of scissor lift, whether electric or diesel.

Question: Is a scissor lift easy to operate?

Answer: While scissor lifts are designed for user-friendliness, safe operation requires formal training, especially when working at height or on uneven terrain. Controls are straightforward, but understanding stability, load capacity, and risk zones is essential.

Question: Does a scissor lift need to be level?

Answer: Yes. Scissor lifts must always be operated on firm, level ground. Using a lift on an incline or uneven surface can cause tipping and is strictly prohibited by safety standards.

Question: What qualifications do I need for a scissor lift?

Answer: You need two main qualifications:

1. Working at Heights Training (Ontario Ministry of Labour-approved)
2. MEWP Training** (covering lift operation, fall protection, inspection, and rescue plans)

Question: How much is scissor lift training?

Answer: Scissor lift (MEWP) training typically costs between \$150–\$250 CAD, depending on the provider and whether it’s a blended (online + practical) format. Some training centres bundle Working at Heights + MEWP for a reduced rate.

Question: How much does it cost to hire a scissor lift for a week?

Answer: In Toronto, weekly scissor lift rental rates typically range from \$375 to \$950, depending on the lift height, type (electric or diesel), and delivery location. NAM Rentals offers weekly rentals starting at \$399 with 24/7 delivery across the GTA.

Question: Do you need a ticket to hire a scissor lift?

Answer: No, you don’t need a “ticket” to rent the equipment — but the operator must be certified. In Ontario, this includes Working at Heights and MEWP (scissor lift) certification. If you’re hiring for someone else to operate, ensure they have valid training.

Question: How long does a scissor lift charge?

Answer: Electric scissor lifts typically require 6–8 hours for a full charge using a standard 110V or 220V power source. Runtime varies, but a full charge usually supports 6–10 hours of operation, depending on usage and model.

Question: Are scissor lifts expensive?

Answer: Scissor lifts are considered cost-effective for short-term elevation work. Purchasing can be expensive (starting around \$12,000–\$25,000), but renting one is far more affordable, especially for temporary projects. NAM Rentals offers daily rates starting at \$145.

Question: What is a disadvantage of a scissor lift?

Answer: The main limitation of a scissor lift is that it only moves vertically — it lacks horizontal reach. For tasks that require up-and-over access or higher elevation, a **boom lift** may be more suitable.

Question: What is the alternative to a scissor lift?

Answer: Alternatives include:

Boom Lifts – for greater height and outreach

Scaffolding – for static access over long duration

Ladders or Podiums – for low-height, low-risk tasks

  Each has trade-offs in cost, mobility, and safety.

Question: What is the life expectancy of a scissor lift?

 Answer: A well-maintained scissor lift has a lifespan of 10–15 years, or 5,000+ operating hours. Rental units are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure performance and safety.

Stay compliant. Stay safe. Get your scissor lift from NAM Rentals and operate with confidence.

Call us at +1 437-999-0659

 Serving Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Vaughan, Scarborough