Scissor Lift Course in Singapore: What You Learn and How the Test Works
Short answer: To operate a scissor lift at work in Singapore, you need to pass the WSQ Operate Scissor Lift course. MOM lists it as the accredited course for employees who operate a scissor lift. The course is 1 day: theory, a practical session, then a written test and a practical test. You must pass the written test before you can take the practical.
Who needs the scissor lift course
Anyone who operates a scissor lift at work. A scissor lift is a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP): the platform rises straight up on a folding “scissor” frame. MOM’s circular on MEWP safety states that operators must pass a MEWP course for the type of MEWP they operate. A scissor lift course does not cover a boom lift or a vertical personnel platform, which have their own courses. Our guide Scissor Lift and Boom Lift Training in Singapore: What MOM Requires explains MOM’s rules.
What you learn: the 3 parts of the course
- Prepare for scissor lift operations: choose the right scissor lift for the job, carry out pre-use checks, and check the work area for hazards.
- Carry out scissor lift operations: raise, lower and move the platform safely, keep within the safe working load, and use the controls and safety devices correctly.
- Post-operation: shut down and park the scissor lift, carry out routine checks, and report any damage or defects.
The WSH Council’s technical notes for the course list the topics: the hazards of scissor lift work, such as overturning, entrapment, falls and collisions, and what affects stability; selecting a scissor lift; pre-use checks; main components, safe working load, safety devices, signage and controls; WSH legislation and industry guidelines; personal protective equipment; and safe work practices, including manoeuvring and stable operation.
How the scissor lift test works
Under the WSH Council’s technical notes for the course:
- Written test first: a closed-book test of 30 questions, with a pass mark of 80%.
- Practical test second: you operate the scissor lift and the assessor marks you Competent or Not Yet Competent. You can only take it after you pass the written test.
- Safety comes first: ignoring safety instructions, hitting an object, mounting a kerb or any dangerous act means an immediate Not Yet Competent.
- No resit without retraining: a learner who is not yet competent has to attend the course again before re-taking the assessment.
Learners who pass receive a WSQ Statement of Attainment. THT Academy also issues a course pass, valid for 5 years.
Working safely with a scissor lift
MOM’s circular on the safe use of MEWPs also states that familiarisation training shall be given to the operator by a competent person who is trained and competent in that model of MEWP. This is in addition to the accredited course.
The scissor lift course at THT Academy
- Course: WSQ Operate Scissor Lift (course code TGS-2022013290)
- Duration: 1 day (9 hours: 6 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical and 1 hour of assessment), 8.00am to 6.00pm
- Languages: English, Mandarin, Tamil and Bengali
- Funding: English classes are eligible for SkillsFuture funding and SkillsFuture Credit for eligible learners. See the latest fee after funding on MySkillsFuture.
- Learner rating: 5.0 on MySkillsFuture (October 2026)
- Where: THT Academy, Woodlands Spectrum 1, 2 Woodlands Sector 1, #01-03, Singapore 738068
Fees and class dates are on the course page. Workers who also use boom lifts can take WSQ Operate Boom Lift. Booking for a group? Contact us at sales@thtc.com.sg or 6269 5269.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a course to operate a scissor lift in Singapore?
Yes. MOM lists WSQ Operate Scissor Lift as the accredited course for employees who operate a scissor lift, and MOM’s circular states that MEWP operators must pass a course for the type of MEWP they operate.
How long is the scissor lift course?
1 day (9 hours) at THT Academy, including the written and practical tests.
What is the pass mark for the scissor lift written test?
80%. The WSH Council’s technical notes set a closed-book written test of 30 questions with an 80% pass mark.
Does the scissor lift course cover boom lifts too?
No. Each type of mobile elevating work platform has its own course. For a boom lift, take WSQ Operate Boom Lift.
Which languages is the scissor lift course taught in?
English, Mandarin, Tamil and Bengali at THT Academy. Only English classes are eligible for SkillsFuture funding and SkillsFuture Credit.
How long is the scissor lift course pass valid?
THT Academy issues a course pass valid for 5 years. You also receive a WSQ Statement of Attainment.
Sources
