A boom lift is a style of aerial work platform characterized by a bucket or platform located at the end of a telescoping arm. The arm, which can be articulated for greater mobility, moves both vertically and horizontally to allow workers to reach hard-to-access areas and perform elevated work tasks.

ANSI/SAIA A92 classifies boom lifts as Group B MEWPs because the platform can move outside the horizontal footprint of the base or outriggers. These machines can also be relocated during use with controls on the lift. As such, they are also classified as Type 3 mobile elevated work platforms.

OSHA MEWP regulations can be found in 29 CFR 1926.451 through 29 CFR 1926.454. Those rules govern all mobile elevating work platforms, including aerial work platforms and mobile scaffolds. Specific requirements are listed below.

• 29 CFR 1926.453 covers rules for a variety of aerial work platforms, including boom lifts.
• 29 CFR 1926.454 outlines the training and certification requirements for boom lift operators.

OSHA frequently references ANSI best practices, including ANSI A92.22 and A92.24.

No. Your Certificate of Completion does not expire. However, you should periodically repeat this training course to refresh your safety knowledge.

In addition to periodic retraining, your employer may require you to repeat boom lift operator training to improve workplace safety or prevent observed hazards.

You should repeat this course at least once every three years. Doing so helps you stay up to date with the newest regulations, safety rules and industry developments.

Employers may also require retraining if any of the following occur:

• A workplace incident occurs involving an aerial lift.
• Hazards related to aerial lifts are discovered on the jobsite.
• You start working with or around a different type of MEWP.
• Your employer observes improper use of a lift platform.

Even after you finish your training, you can log in to review what you've learned for up to 180 days from the date of purchase.

Yes. Only trained personnel may operate an aerial lift. That includes dedicated operators, infrequent lift users and anyone else who works on the equipment.

OSHA does not approve training courses or certify lift operators. This training course complies with all OSHA training standards found in standard 29 CFR 1926.454 related to boom lifts.

The training requirement includes anyone who performs work while occupying the lift, not just the individual controlling the unit.

The boom lift certification process includes both classroom education and practical training. OSHA requires all aerial lift operators to complete both portions before using the equipment on the job.

This boom lift online training course teaches mandatory safety topics for working at heights, including fall protection, pre-use inspection, outrigger deployment and tip-over hazard calculations. The course ends with a multiple-choice exam.

After you finish, your employer will provide hands-on instruction with the specific equipment you will operate in your unique work environment. Finally, your employer will evaluate your skills. Once you pass, you will be certified as a boom lift operator.

It will take you approximately 90 minutes to finish all lessons and take the final test. Study at your own pace on your schedule. We automatically save your progress every time you log out.