Safe Use of Telehandlers

in Construction
 Safe Use of Telehandlers
In Construction

Strategic Forum for Construction

Good Practice Guide

Working in Partnership

Reference No. CPA 1101

First Published: February 2011
Revised: June 2013
Published by:
Construction Plant-hire Association
27/28 Newbury St
London
EC1A 7HU
Telephone: 020 7796 3366
Email: enquiries@cpa.uk.net
© CPA Copyright – 2011 & 2013

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 2 June 2013

Contents
Page

Foreword …………………………………………………………………… 4

1. Introduction and Summary………………………………………………… 5

2. Definitions …………….……………………………………………………. 9

3. Planning ……………………………………………………………………. 14

4. Telehandler Principles ......................................................................... 17

5. Types of Telehandler and Attachments ………………………………… 24

6. Selection of Telehandlers and Attachments ........................................ 27

7. Provision of Information .………………………………………………….. 29

8. Planning, Supervisory and Operating Personnel ……………………... 31

9. Familiarisation …………………………………………………………....... 36

10. Safe Use of Telehandlers ………...……………………………………... 37

11. Review and Monitoring of the Safe Use of Telehandlers…………….. 49

12. Maintenance and Inspection ……………………………………………... 54

13. Thorough Examination ………………………………………………….... 59

Annex A Example Risk Assessment and Method Statement for Non -

suspended Loads ....................................................................... 60

Annex B Planning of the Lifting of Suspended Loads ..............................

62
Example of a Method Statement for Lifting Suspended Loads
Annex C 70
with a Telehandler......................................................................
Annex D Example of a Lifting Schedule ................................................... 78

Annex E Example of a Checklist for Familiarisation.................................. 79

Annex F Example of Daily (pre-use) Checks ……………………………… 80

Annex G Key Points for Telehandler Operators ........................................ 83

Annex H Key Points for Supervisors of Telehandler Operators ................ 84

Annex I Further Information and Guidance .……………………………… 85

Annex J Topic Index ................................................................................ 88

Annex K Working Group Membership ……………………………………… 89

NOTE: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the material contained within this booklet, no liability is
accepted by the Construction Plant-hire Association in respect of the information given.
No material from this booklet may be reproduced in any shape or form without the permission of the Construction Plant-
hire Association.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 3 June 2013

Foreword
Telehandlers are one of the most versatile pieces of construction site equipment, making
a significant contribution to the efficient delivery of the construction process. The
development of telehandlers in both capacity and reach to the stage where they are able
to carry out many of the tasks traditionally undertaken by mobile and tower cranes
introduces new challenges. Unfortunately the very versatility that makes them so useful
also provides scope for unsafe use, this has led to a significant number of serious
accidents, tragically including some fatalities. Not only do these accidents have a terrible
cost in terms of human suffering, they also have a significant financial cost for all
concerned. Consequently there is a very strong business case for improving safety
performance.
As with all lifting equipment, safe operation of telehandlers depends on a number of
factors including the selection and maintenance of the telehandler, the planning and
supervision of its use, and the competence of the operator. If any of these are deficient,
the risk of a serious accident increases significantly and it is therefore essential that site
managers ensure that all telehandler operations are planned, supervised and carried out
safely by competent people.
This guidance has been developed by a working group representing all parts of
the industry. It provides clarity on the safe use of telehandlers and will help telehandler
suppliers and users improve health and safety standards. The guidance addresses
planning for safe use, roles and responsibilities, inspection, maintenance and thorough
examination and training. The advice in this document is straightforward, comprehensive
and easy to adopt. This guidance may go further than the minimum you need to do to
comply with the law.
I thank those who have been involved in its preparation and commend the guidance to
anyone who owns, supplies or controls the operation of telehandlers. Please read the
publication and turn the advice into action.

Heather Bryant
HM Chief Inspector of Construction
Chair of the Health and Safety Executive’s Construction Industry Advisory Committee
(CONIAC).

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 4 June 2013

1.0 Introduction and Summary
Telehandlers (also known as Rough Terrain Telescopic Handlers or Variable Reach Trucks)
make a valuable contribution to the construction process by enabling materials to be
unloaded from delivery vehicles, transported around construction sites and placed at height
(reach). They are versatile machines which can be fitted with a wide range of attachments
such as buckets, skips, work platforms and crane jibs. Unfortunately there have been a
significant number of accidents involving the use of telehandlers, which have tragically
included a number of fatalities.
This document is intended to provide guidance on the management and supervision of the
use of telehandlers on construction sites including planning, equipment selection, selection
and training of personnel, provision of information, familiarisation, safe use, maintenance,
inspection and thorough examination, together with monitoring of the whole process. It is
essential that in managing the use of telehandlers, adequate attention is paid to all aspects
of the process – selection of the correct equipment for the application, planning its use by
competent people, monitoring the activity and rectification of issues; if any one aspect is
ignored the probability of an incident will increase significantly, putting both the machine
operator and people in the vicinity at risk.
The document structure starts with principles and moves on to specific requirements and
information. This inevitably leads to information on certain topics, such as visibility,
appearing in more than one section and is a deliberate strategy to ensure that readers who
dip into the document are given adequate information in one place. A topic index had been
provided at Annex H to facilitate easy navigation of the document.
The advice given in this document is based on the current state of the art of telehandler
design. As new designs are developed, this document will be updated to reflect any such
changes to the state of the art.
Whilst the document is aimed specifically at the construction industry, its guidance applies to
other sectors of industry where telehandlers are used. Where local rules are more onerous
than those set out in this document, they take precedence.
The following parts of Section 1.0 are a summary of the main body of the document, giving a
brief outline of the items covered. Sections 2 to 13 and the Annexes should be consulted for
detailed guidance

1.1 Planning
All operations on construction sites should be planned to ensure that they are carried out
safely and that all foreseeable risks have been taken into account. Poor planning is one of
the major causes of accidents arising from the use of telehandlers and the responsibility for
planning tasks lies with the employer who is undertaking that task. The employer should
ensure that they identify a person who is competent to undertake the planning and give them
that duty. The planning process should identify the task to be undertaken, identify the
hazards associated with that task, carry out a risk assessment, identify control measures,
develop the method to be used, record the planning in a method statement, communicate
the plan to all those involved in the task and review the plan before the job starts.
Where a telehandler is to be used as a crane for lifting suspended loads, additional planning
is required by a person competent to undertake the task, the “Competent Person”. Details of
this process are given in Annex B. Additional planning is also required for other non
standard lifting operations such as unusual loads, or circumstances, loads with large wind
areas, use of integrated work platforms, use of special attachments, use in confined spaces,
and use in tight areas where contact with other structures could be hazardous.

1.2 Telehandler Principles

Telehandlers are generally designed to European Standard BS EN1459. The scope of this
Standard very clearly states that it applies only when the telehandler is stationary and lifting
on substantially flat, level and compacted ground. It also applies only to use with forks.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 5 June 2013

Consequently if a telehandler is used in other circumstances such as travelling with loads on
the forks, travelling or lifting on slopes or with attachments other than forks, the additional
risks need to be reassessed.

1.3 Types of Telehandler

Telehandlers fall into two main types:-
1.3.1 Non-rotating
These machines comprise a powered wheeled chassis onto which is mounted a telescopic
boom, pivoted on the chassis, which can be elevated from below the horizontal to an angle
approaching the vertical. The outer end of the boom is fitted with a fork carriage and forks for
handling unit loads. Levelling of the forks in the longitudinal plane, as the boom elevation
changes, is carried out automatically.
These machines are able to transport loads from one part of a site to another and place the
load at height. On construction sites, the wheels are generally fitted with lug grip tyres to
enable the chassis to negotiate unpaved ground.
Many telehandlers are fitted with stabilizers which are deployed when the machine is
stationary to provide additional stability and enhance the machine's lifting capacity.

1.3.2 Rotating
Rotating telehandlers have all of the features of the non-rotating type with the addition of a
rotating or slewing superstructure on which the boom and operator's cab are mounted.
These machines also have outriggers fitted at either end of the chassis which enable the
entire chassis to be lifted clear of the ground for maximum stability.
The main advantages of these machines over the non-rotating type is compact chassis size,
enhanced lifting height, increased stability and ease of placing loads without moving the
chassis.
All telehandlers can be fitted with a wide range of attachments such as buckets, skips, work
platforms and crane jibs.

1.4 Selection of Telehandlers and Attachments

An effective and safe telehandler is one which is well matched to the type and size of load to
be carried and lifted, together with the environment in which it is to be used. Attachments for
use with telehandlers should be chosen with care to ensure that the combination of
telehandler and attachment is both safe and productive. It is essential that all attachments
are compatible with the telehandler with which they are to be used. Where necessary and
appropriate, the telehandler manufacturer should be consulted when third party attachments
are to be used. The selection of the telehandler and any attachments should be part of the
planning process.

1.5 Provision of Information

The wide variation of designs and the increasing complexity of telehandler technology make
it essential that supervisors and operators are supplied with adequate information to enable
them to carry out their duties effectively and safely. Information comes in various forms and
from several sources such as telehandler or third party attachment manufacturers.
Telehandler owners must ensure that a robust system is in place to provide adequate up to
date information to users and maintenance personnel.

1.6 Supervisory and Operating Personnel

Employers must ensure that their personnel are competent to work safely with telehandler
operations. Employers must therefore assess the competence of their staff and, where
necessary, provide training to achieve the level of competence required. The training needs

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 6 June 2013

to reflect the ability and level of responsibility of the individual, degree of complexity of the
task and the risks involved.
Any gaps in the knowledge, skills and understanding of competent persons (planning),
supervisors and operators must be remedied by suitable training. This may be carried out
in-house or by an external training provider. At the end of the training period the trainee must
be assessed to ensure that the learning objectives have been met.
Requirements for telehandler operator basic training and testing are set out in HSE (L117)
Rider operator lift trucks: Operations training Approved Code of Practice and Guidance.
Basic telehandler operator training does not include the lifting of suspended loads,
the lifting of persons or the use of other attachments. If such tasks are to be carried
out the employer must ensure that the operator is suitably trained and assessed as
competent. In addition basic operator training for non-rotating machines does not
cover rotating machines. This can normally be carried out by a local training provider.

1.7 Familiarisation
Telehandlers come in a variety of shapes and sizes with significant differences in operating
controls and characteristics. It is therefore essential that operators and supervisors are given
adequate familiarisation on an unfamiliar type or model of telehandler or attachment before
they begin operations. The employer of the telehandler user is responsible for ensuring
that familiarisation is provided.

1.8 Safe Use of Telehandlers

Two of the most significant hazards associated with telehandler operation are lateral stability
and visibility.

1.8.1 Lateral stability

As a load on the forks of a telehandler is lifted, the centre of gravity of the whole machine
rises. This does not matter if the machine is level: if however the machine is on a cross
slope, the centre of gravity will move towards the tipping line as the load is raised with a risk
of overturning. This effect is exacerbated when the telehandler is driven with a raised load.
Lateral stability is also an issue when lifting and travelling with suspended loads as the load
may swing, adding to potential instability.

1.8.2 Visibility
Restricted visibility when the boom is raised or when large loads are carried, plus poor
segregation have been identified as a major cause of accidents involving pedestrians and
telehandlers. Telehandlers are often fitted with aids to improve visibility and the operator's
awareness of people in the vicinity of the telehandler. These aids should be in good working
order and properly adjusted. It is the operator’s responsibility to check the condition of all
secondary aids to visibility and NOT TO USE THE MACHINE if they are not present or not
working correctly. It is the Supervisor’s responsibility to fully support the operator in this
action.
Whilst the Principal Contractor has the primary responsibility to ensure adequate segregation
and the Supervisor must ensure that it is enforced, it is remains the operators responsibility
to look around and check for the absence of pedestrians before moving and whilst
manoeuvring and travelling. If the operator cannot see clearly, they should seek assistance
or leave the cab to look around to confirm it is safe to continue the procedure.
Wherever possible pedestrians should be segregated from moving vehicles, including
telehandlers. Visibility aids and operator vigilance are valuable control measures, but
segregation should always take priority.
Thought should also be given to the operator's ability to keep the load in view at all times,
particularly with high reach telehandlers where the operator may have difficulty in judging
distance at height.
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 7 June 2013
1.9 Review and Monitoring
It is important that the use of telehandlers is subject to regular review and constant
monitoring to ensure that tasks are being carried out as planned, that supervisors and
operators have the necessary competences and that planning is effective.

1.10 Maintenance and Inspection

The effective maintenance of a telehandler is an essential part of safe operation. As with all
machines, a telehandler will wear, deteriorate and can suffer damage over time. The
maintenance process, including checks and inspections, monitors, prevents and rectifies this
deterioration. It is important that the personnel asked to carry out these tasks have the
necessary machine-specific training, experience and competence in both periodic and
breakdown maintenance.
Telehandlers require the manufacturer’s preventative maintenance instructions to be strictly
complied with, if safety is to be maintained in use. Checks and inspections should be carried
out taking account of the frequency of use of the telehandler and the environmental
conditions in which it works.
Both the user and owner of the telehandler, and any attachments used with it, have a
responsibility to ensure that they are maintained in a safe working condition. In practice the
maintenance, other than pre-use checks, is normally undertaken by the telehandler owner on
behalf of the user.

1.11 Thorough Examination

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) require that all
lifting equipment is thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals. In the
case of a telehandler, it should be thoroughly examined as follows:-
• When the telehandler is put into service for the first time (LOLER Reg. 9(1))
NOTE: If the telehandler has not been used before and the EC declaration of conformity was made not
more than 12 months before the telehandler was put into service, the declaration may be used as
evidence of the first through examination.
• At regular intervals of:-
o a period not exceeding 12 months if the telehandler is only used for lifting
goods (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(ii));
o a period not exceeding 6 months if the telehandler is used for lifting persons
(LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(i));
• After any major alteration or damage (event) (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(iv)).
LOLER also requires that lifting accessories and lifting attachments are thoroughly
examined at intervals not exceeding six months (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(i)).

1.12 Key Points for Operators and Supervisors

Key points for telehandler operators are given in Annex G and key points for supervisors
of telehandler operators are given in Annex H. These may be reproduced in a
convenient form such as pocket cards.

1.13 Statutory Regulations

Attention is drawn to the statutory regulations listed in Annex I.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 8 June 2013

2.0 Definitions
attachment
Bucket or other device which can be easily attached to the boom of a telehandler, either
directly or via a quick hitch

de-stacking
Removing loads (generally palletised), from a vertical stack

fork arm extensions

Manual or hydraulic extensions to increase the length of fork arms and used to reach loads
in deep racking or to handle extra depth loads.

lifting operation complexity

Measure of the complexity of a lifting operation taking into account both the complexity of the
load and the environment in which it is being lifted (See Figure B1 in Annex B)

lifting attachment
Hook or jib which can be easily attached to the boom of the telehandler, either directly or via
a quick hitch, to facilitate the lifting of suspended loads

load centre
The distance from the centre of gravity of the load to the front face of the fork shank (vertical
member) (See Figure 1)

Figure 1 – Load Centre

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 9 June 2013

load chart
Durable load chart which should be affixed in a prominent position, easily readable by the
operator including information on rated and actual capacities (see Figure 2))

Figure 2 - Example Load Chart

longitudinal load moment indicator(LLMI)

Device that warns the operator of a change to the load handling geometry which would
increase the longitudinal load moment, beyond pre-determined limit(s)

longitudinal load moment control (LLMC)

Device that prevents the operator changing the load handling geometry in direction(s) which
would increase the longitudinal load moment, beyond the allowable limit(s)

method statement
Document produced to describe the safe system for the use of a telehandler

outrigger
Device to increase the stability of the telehandler by increasing the supporting base and
lifting the chassis clear of the ground

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 10 June 2013

personnel
competent person - general
Person who has such capacity combined with practical skills, theoretical knowledge and
experience of the telehandler and the equipment used in the lifting operation as is
necessary to carry out the function to which the term relates in each particular context
competent person - lifting of suspended loads
Person with the training, practical and theoretical knowledge and experience required to
comply with Annex B
Lift Supervisor
Person who controls the lifting operation, and ensures that it is carried out in accordance
with the competent person’s safe system of work
site management
Person or organisation responsible for operations on a construction site or part of a
construction site
NOTE: This includes Principal, package and sub contractors
supervisor
Person responsible to higher management for the day-to-day performance of individuals
or a small group, guiding the group toward its goals, ensuring that all members of the
team are safe, productive and resolving problems, within their competence, as they arise
telehandler operator
Person who is operating the telehandler

quick hitch
Device to facilitate the efficient connection and removal of attachments to telehandlers
NOTE: Also known as Quickhitches, Quick Couplers or Attachment Brackets (Quick fastening)

rated capacity of telehandler

Load that the telehandler is designed to lift for a given operating condition (e.g. configuration,
position of the load)
NOTE: The rated capacity was formerly known as “safe working load” (SWL)

rough terrain telescopic handler (RTTH)

See telehandler

stability
longitudinal stability
Stability of the telehandler along the centre line of the machine. i.e. the tendency to tip
forwards or backwards
lateral stability
Stability of the telehandler at right angles to the centre line of the machine. i.e. the
tendency to tip sideways
stability triangle
Diagrammatic representation of the tipping lines for a non-rotating boom telehandler

stabilizer
Aid to the supporting structure connected to the base of the telehandler to provide stability,
without lifting the chassis from the ground

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 11 June 2013

stacking
Placing loads, generally palletised, on top of each other in a vertical stack

side-shift carriage
Fork carriage enabling horizontal sideways movement of the fork arms to allow precise
positioning.

telehandler
non-rotating boom
A wheeled, counterbalanced, powered truck which embodies a variable reach lifting
mechanism consisting of a telescopic elevating boom, normally equipped with a fork
carrier at its expanding end
NOTE: Also known as Rough Terrain Telescopic Handler(RTTH) or Variable Reach Trucks (VRT)
rotating boom
A wheeled, counterbalanced, powered truck which embodies a variable reach lifting
mechanism consisting of a telescopic elevating boom mounted on a rotating turret,
normally equipped with a fork carrier at its extending end

thorough examination
Examination by a competent person in such depth and detail as the competent person
considers necessary to enable them to determine whether the equipment being examined is
safe to continue in use
NOTE: The thorough examination is not part of the maintenance regime for the equipment but additionally
provides owners with information which could be used to determine the effectiveness of the regime.

tipping line
The horizontal line about which a telehandler will rotate, should it overturn

undercutting
Lifting with the tip of the forks situated under the outer edge of the load to enable the load to
be placed adjacent to a wall

working platform
Platform attached to the boom of a telehandler to provide a safe means of access for
persons working at height
integrated working platform
Attachment with controls that are linked to and isolate the telehandler controls so that in
normal use, only a person in the platform can control the lift height of the platform and
machine movements
non-integrated working platform
Attachment for use in conjunction with a telehandler to elevate people so they can work
at height, but they have no controls in the platform that allow a person in the platform to
control the lift height of the platform or move the chassis; i.e. all telehandler and working
platform movements are controlled by the telehandler operator
Non-integrated platforms attachments must not be used for planned tasks on
construction sites

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 12 June 2013

 Figure 3 - Parts of a Non-rotating Telehandler

Figure 4 - Parts of a Rotating Telehandler

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 13 June 2013
3.0 Planning (Management and Coordination)
All operations on site should be planned to ensure that they are carried out
safely and that all foreseeable risks have been taken into account. Poor
planning is one of the major causes of accidents arising from the use of
telehandlers.

3.1 Responsibility for planning

The responsibility for planning tasks lies with the employer who is undertaking the task. The
employer should ensure that they identify a person who is competent to undertake the
planning and give them that duty. The attributes and selection of this person are detailed in
8.2.1.

3.2 Identifying the task to be undertaken

As the first stage in the planning process, the task to be undertaken should be clearly
identified, together with the location and sequence.

3.3 Identifying the hazards associated with the task

The hazards associated with the task should be identified. These might be associated with
the location and environment where the work is to be carried out, the type of telehandler, any
attachment, the type of load, the location of the pick up and put down points, the travel route
or the people associated with the task or located in the vicinity. This process should also
consider the effect of other operations being carried out in the vicinity and the need for co-
ordination.

3.4 Carrying out a risk assessment

Having identified the hazards associated with the task, a risk assessment should be carried
out to identify who might be harmed, the chance of them being harmed and the
consequences of any harm. This assessment should be recorded (See 3.11).
An example of a risk assessment is given in Annex A
NOTE: The assessment of language skills and prevailing or anticipated weather conditions should form part
of all risk assessment carried out as part of the planning process for the safe use and maintenance of
telehandlers.
NOTE: For basic telehandler operations the risk assessment may be incorporated in risk assessments
covering trade specific tasks. It must however adequately address the above points.

3.5 Identifying control measures

Once the risk assessment has highlighted the risks involved in the task, the procedures and
measures required to control them should be identified. Consideration should also be given
to the suitability of a telehandler for the task to be undertaken or whether another more
suitable type of equipment should be used.

3.6 Developing the method to be used

Having identified the hazards, evaluated the risks and worked out the control measures
required to carry out the task safely, these components should be developed into a coherent
plan. This should include consultation with those who will be undertaking or be affected by
the task. Any contingency measures and emergency procedures should be included in the
plan.

3.7 Recording the planning in a Method Statement

Once the plan has been developed it should be recorded in a Method Statement (Lift Plan).
The length and detail of this document depends on the complexity of the task to be

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 14 June 2013

undertaken and on the risks involved. The Method Statement should include the following
information:

• Project;
• Location;
• Date of issue and revision number;
• Equipment and load description;
• Load stability before, during and after the lifting operation, including checks to be
undertaken;
• Pick-up and delivery points;
• Sequence of operations;
• Ground and operational area – assessed and passed as suitable for the lifting and
travelling operations to be undertaken;
• Requirements for Exclusion Zones and any sequencing of other activities to maintain
safe areas;
• Arrangements for adequate supervision of operations;
• Names of personnel involved in the lifting operation;
• Training for operator, banksman and supervisor;
• Authorisation of operator and supervisor;
• Communicate safe method of work;
• Contingency planning;
• Arrangements for ensuring that equipment provided is maintained and fit for purpose;
• Arrangements for ensuring that equipment (including lifting attachments) is
thoroughly examined and tested at appropriate intervals.
An example of typical requirements included in a Method Statement is given in Annex A.
NOTE: For basic telehandler operations the method statement may be incorporated in method statements
covering trade specific tasks. It must however adequately address the above points.

3.8 Communicating the planned safe system of work to all persons involved
One of the most important aspects of successful planning is to ensure that the contents of
the planned safe system of work are communicated effectively to, and between, all parties
involved, taking account of language differences. Arrangements should be made to ensure
that copies of any method statements are given and explained to the appropriate people
(including the Principal Contractor) and that others involved in the job are fully briefed.
Similarly any changes to the plan should be communicated to all parties.
Confirmation of the plan being communicated should be obtained and recorded.
It is essential that part of the communication process includes co-ordination with other
activities that may impinge on the task to be undertaken.

3.9 Reviewing the plan before the job starts

Immediately before a job starts the specified method should be checked to see if any aspect
of the job has changed and the effect that these changes could have on the safety of the
operation. If any modifications to the plan are required these should be communicated
effectively to all those involved. The competent person should amend the Method Statement
and initial any significant changes.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 15 June 2013

3.10 The Use of Telehandlers With Attachments Other Than Forks
Telehandlers are generally used with forks for handling of unit loads. They may however be
used with other attachments such as buckets, skips, work platforms and crane jibs, when
permitted by the telehandler manufacturer. Care should be taken to ensure that the persons
both fitting and using the attachments are competent to do so. The fitting of an attachment
may alter the characteristics of the telehandler. (See 5.3)
In every case the use of the telehandler and attachment must be planned in accordance with
3.1 to 3.8. The lifting of suspended loads and the lifting of persons are covered in 10.7 and
10.8.
Operators should be trained in the use of attachments and familiarised with each specific
attachments (See 8.6 and 9.0)

3.11 Further guidance

Further guidance on planning is given in:
• HSE Leaflet INDG218 – Guide to Risk Assessment;
• HSE Leaflet INDG163 – Five Steps to Risk Assessment.
• Annex G

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 16 June 2013

4.0 Telehandler Principles
For safe operation of telehandlers it is vital to have an understanding of their design criteria,
expected use and limitations. Use outside of those areas is adding extra hazard of which the
operator must be aware.

4.1 Design Principles

Telehandlers are generally designed to European Standard BS EN1459. The scope of this
Standard very clearly states that it applies only when the telehandler is stationary and lifting
on substantially flat, level and compacted ground or travelling with a load. It also applies
only to use with forks. Consequently if a telehandler is used in other circumstances such as
travelling or lifting on slopes or with attachments other than forks, the additional risks need to
be reassessed.
As part of the test process to ensure conformance with the Standard, telehandlers are
placed on a platform, which must be tilted to preset angles to assess stability. Across the
slope, and with rated maximum load at full lift height*, this angle is only 7°. Most telehandler
operators and supervisors, when asked, estimate that it is in the region of 25°- 30°, which is
a significant over estimate.
*NOTE: The procedure is somewhat more complicated than this in reality
With the rated load in the travelling position the minimum tilt platform angle required is
somewhat greater at 26 degrees. However, it is clear that raising the mass of the boom
and/or load greatly decreases stability as shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5 - Lateral Stability

Because telehandlers normally have freely oscillating rear axles, the tipping lines form a
triangle, rather than the rectangle of machines supported on outriggers such as rotating
boom telehandlers and mobile cranes. This has the effect of reducing lateral stability,
particularly with the boom raised. See Figure 6

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 17 June 2013

 Figure 6 - Typical Stability Triangle for Non-rotating Boom Telehandlers

Figure 7 below shows how telehandler stability is affected by travelling.

Figure 7 - Dynamic Stability

All the stability tests carried out on telehandlers during their design and development are
performed with a standard load which consists of a cube with 1 metre sides. Using a load
with physically larger dimensions, or which is not homogeneous, presents extra risks that
must be assessed.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 18 June 2013

To maintain stability a telehandler:
• Should only be used on firm ground that resists sinking of the wheels or stabilisers (if
fitted);
• Should lift vertically, either being on level ground or using a frame levelling feature;
• Should be stationary with the brake applied, for all "normal" lifts;
• May be less stable with a different shaped load;
• Should only be used by a trained, certificated and competent operator.
For further information see 10.7

Figure 8 - Consequence of Instability

4.2 The Effect of Tyres on Stability

Tyres play a vital part in the stability of telehandlers. Stability and load carrying capacity can
be adversely affected by issues such as:-
• Incorrect tyre pressure;
• Differences in diameter of tyres on the same axle due to differential wear;
• Incorrect ply rating;
• Use of tyres which are not of the required performance specification;
• Tyres with identical nominal sizes being of different physical size;
• Poor tyre repairs.
Tyre maintenance, repair and replacement are dealt with in more detail in 12.11.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 19 June 2013

4.3 Load Moment Indicators
From the first designs in the mid 1970s, telehandlers have been fitted with a device that
monitors the tendency of the telehandler to tip over in the forward direction. The correct
name is a Longitudinal Load Moment Indicator or LLMI.
It’s vital to understand the functioning and, particularly, the limitations of this device. First,
and most important, it is not a Safe Load Indicator!
The LLMI works by sensing the load upon the back axle. As the load on the forks is
increased, or the boom extended, the load moment (load x distance) increases and the rear
axle becomes ‘lighter’. At a preset value, the LLMI sounds and shows a warning. However
the LLMI only senses forward stability, not rearward or lateral stability and it is essential that
operators understand this limitation.
Some manufacturers have linked this with a control device, which blocks further de-
stabilising motion when the stability limit is approached. In this case, the device is called a
Longitudinal Load Moment Control or LLMC. These are fitted on new telehandlers
manufactured after September 2010, however there is no requirement to retrofit on older
machines.

4.4 Driving with the Boom Raised

Telehandlers should always be driven with the boom lowered to ensure that the centre of
gravity of the machine and the load is as low as possible. Driving with the boom raised
should never be considered as "normal" practice, for all of the above reasons. It introduces
an extra risk that must be assessed.
If the site is so restricted that manoeuvring is impossible without raising the boom, site
management should re-assess the use of a telehandler at all or, at least, consider
reselection of the machine chosen.
In the past, operators have raised the boom in order to see under it. The modern design of
telehandler makes this unnecessary and regular driving of a telehandler with the boom
raised should ALWAYS be challenged by supervisors.

4.5 Suspended Loads

Telehandlers are often used to place suspended loads into position. The standard rating of
a telehandler is for lifting unit loads on the forks; consequently the standard load chart will
not be valid for lifting suspended loads due to different load centres and the effect of any
side slope.
Carrying a suspended load means travelling, with the boom raised from the normal transport
position and with additional dynamic forces due to swinging of the suspended load. Once
again, the standard load charts will not accurately reflect the rated capacity.
The manufacturer will, in all probability, specify a reduced capacity in these situations, which
will be presented in the Operators Manual and on a supplementary load chart.
If the carrying of a suspended load is permitted on site, the following points should be
followed:
• Suspended loads should never be attached to chains or slings over the forks
or carriage;
• Only a properly designed, fitted and tested attachment should be used to carry a
suspended load;
• The boom should only be lifted enough to suspend the load 300-500mm above the
ground;
• Visibility may well be reduced and appropriate control measures should be used;
• Any load swing must be minimised by selection of appropriate attachment
equipment, delicate use of controls and slow travel speeds;
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 20 June 2013
 • The machine should travel extremely slowly and never above walking pace;
• The operator should, wherever possible, not attempt to cross inclines as the centre of
gravity of the suspended load will move towards the tipping line, thereby reducing
stability;
• The operator should only climb/descend inclines with extreme care as descending an
incline will cause the centre of gravity of the suspended load to move towards the
tipping line, thereby reducing forward stability.
Roof trusses pose a special risk. Although relatively light, they are physically large, leading
to large dynamic forces and are significantly affected by the wind. Physical restrictions on-
site may require the boom to be elevated in order to clear fixed obstructions. Any carrying
and placing of roof trusses with a telehandler carries significant extra risk that must be
addressed.
The major telehandler manufacturers produce truss-handling attachments specially
developed for this task. They should permit trusses to be carried strapped in place and not
free to swing. (See 10.7)

4.6 Visibility
Restricted visibility when the boom is raised or when large loads are carried, plus poor
segregation have been identified as a major cause of accidents involving pedestrians and
telehandlers. The great majority of telehandlers feature a side-mounted cab, with the boom
mounted centrally or to the right of the machine chassis. The operator’s view around the
machine, when normally seated is obstructed or ‘masked’ by the cab pillars and any other
part of the structure that is in the way. Certain parts of the loading cycle will place the boom
in the operator’s line of sight and consequently prevent a clear view.
Older designs of telehandler use a high mounting for the rear of the boom, making view to
the right front quarter almost impossible. This led to the practice of driving with the boom
raised to allow the operator to see underneath it. Newer designs of telehandlers have low
profile booms that drop below the eye line when in the transport position. Supervisors should
always query the practice of driving with the boom raised as it increases the extra risk of
dynamic instability.
A new European Standard EN15830 will set scientifically measureable standards for
telehandler visibility. A series of tests will produce a visibility diagram, indicating masked
areas at radius of 12m and immediately adjacent to the machine (1m away). The standard
permits some masking in less hazardous areas, and residual risk information such as a
diagram – see Figure 9, to be provided where appropriate visual aid solutions don’t currently
exist. Maskings that exceed those permitted must be addressed by the use of secondary
visual aids, such as mirrors, cameras or radar devices. The residual risk information
provided in the operator’s handbook should be used as part of the planning process.
NOTE: Masking is the blocking of parts of the operators field of vision by obstructions such as the load or
parts of the telehandler structure.
It should not be forgotten that the most effective way of preventing accidents between
pedestrians and telehandlers is to segregate vehicle and pedestrians. See 9.4.1.
Operators should always ensure by appropriate means, prior to commencing a task, that
personnel are clear of the area immediately adjacent to the machine. This may involve
getting out of the cab and walking around the machine.
Operator visibility is aided by clean cab windows. Window cleanliness should form part of the
operator's pre-use checks.
Guidance on the assessment of visibility and the selection of visibility aids is given in:-
• HSE Sector Information Minute No. 05/2010/03 Visibility for operators of telehandlers
(variable reach lift trucks)

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 21 June 2013

4.7 Selecting Visibility Aids
Manufacturers will supply machines with sufficient visual aids and residual risk information in
order to meet prEN 15830 or supply legislation. Where additional or particular risks are
present on a site, or application, and following a risk assessment, it may be necessary to add
additional aids. The HSE Sector Information Minute No. 05/2010/03 Visibility for operators of
telehandlers (variable reach lift trucks) provides the following advice on the selection of
visibility aids.
In general users will need to consider the following factors when choosing appropriate
visibility aids:

• Vehicle speed and stopping performance: visibility aids must be able to allow the
operator to respond to a hazard in good time to prevent impact.
• Site conditions: the type of visibility aid fitted to the equipment should be
appropriate for the site's conditions. In certain circumstances, users will prefer to use
colour CCTV because of the improved contrast it provides against certain
backgrounds.
• Lighting conditions: Vehicle lighting systems may compensate for low ambient
light.
• Human factors: The aids should be selected and fitted to maximise the operator's
chances of perceiving danger. Too many aids may confuse an operator and render
them ineffective. The positioning of monitors and mirrors should take into account the
operators normal operating position for the relevant direction of travel and minimise
the number of different locations an operator needs to look. Where frequent,
repetitive operations are performed (such as loading from a stockpile) the risk of the
operator failing to use a vision aid increases and it may be beneficial to provide
additional automatic sensing systems. Some additional aids may also be appropriate
for ergonomic reasons, e.g. to reduce the need for the operator to frequently look
over their shoulder.

4.7.1 Wide Angle Convex Mirrors

Convex mirrors can provide additional visibility along the sides of vehicles and of areas to
the rear into which the vehicle can manoeuvre. They are used on telehandlers to view the
areas to the sides, rearward of their fixing and if fitted at the pivot point immediately in front
of the rear of the vehicle to enable the operator to check that those areas are clear before
moving off.
When selecting and mounting convex mirrors, users will need to consider that the image
provided by a convex mirror is distorted and that the more convex the mirror the greater the
distortion. This may increase estimates of distance, leading to unsafe situations. Images can
also be disrupted if vibrations from the vehicle transmitted through the mirror mountings
cause excessive shake in a mirror. These two effects can result in a particular mirror
installation becoming ineffective.

4.7.2 Closed Circuit Television

CCTV systems, i.e. a CCTV camera and monitor, can be positioned to allow the operator to
see into various blind spots. The camera lens is chosen to provide the required angle of
view,. The camera should be located in a position that reduces the possibility of damage
from mud, debris, or collisions. If possible the monitor should be fitted at the same height as,
and in line with, the external mirrors without obstructing forward vision. This will reduce the
number of different locations that an operator needs to view. The monitor should be on all of
the time not just switched on when in the vehicle is reversing. They can be detachable to
stop vandalism and theft.
CCTV systems may need to be capable of coping with low, bright and changing light
conditions, such as glare which should be assessed e.g. when CCTV is being considered for
cabs with large areas of glass. The CCTV system may need automatic adjustment and
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 22 June 2013
shielding to prevent glare, and brightness control when it is used at night or additional, or
alternative aids, may also be required.

NOTE: See also HSE Operational Circular OC 803/70 - Closed Circuit TV on Road Going
Vehicles.

Figure 9 - Typical Visibility Diagram

4.7.3 Sensing Aids

Radar systems can either provide an audible and visual warning to the operator or apply the
brakes of the machine when an object is detected close to the rear of the vehicle. More
sophisticated systems have a two-stage response: warning the operator at a certain distance
from the object and automatically applying the brakes at a closer distance. These systems,
when fitted to the braking system, have the advantage over CCTV of giving automatic
protection to the rear. Radar systems however, are not fail-safe and for this reason users
normally fit a warning light to the machine to indicate when the system is switched off. The
width and length of the detection zone(s) should be set according to the braking distance of
the vehicle and the environment in which they operate. They should also be checked
periodically.
These and other similar electronic sensing devices (e.g. ultrasonic systems) can be fitted on
vehicles where the operator may not look back when reversing. The system either: stops the
machine, sounds an alarm or gives a visual warning when something is in the vehicles path.
This is particularly useful where the vehicle moves repeatedly backwards and forwards
motions.
An effective sensing system needs to be able to reliably detect an object in the risk area that
it covers; the system should not however be prone to being triggered by objects that are not
in the risk area or suffer from other "unwanted alarms" as this will tempt operators to de-
activate the system. They may therefore be less tolerable on tight and congested sites.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 23 June 2013

5.0 Types of Telehandler and Attachments
Telehandlers fall into two broad categories:–

5.1 Non Rotating

These machines comprise a powered wheeled chassis on to which is mounted a telescopic
boom, pivoted on the chassis, which can be elevated from below the horizontal to an angle
approaching the vertical. The outer end of the boom is fitted with a fork carriage and forks for
handling unit loads. Levelling of the forks in the longitudinal plane, as the boom elevation
changes, is carried out automatically.
These machines are able to transport loads from one part of a site to another and place the
load at height. On construction sites, the wheels are generally fitted with lug grip tyres to
enable the chassis to negotiate unpaved ground. Various drive and steering configurations
are available such as two-wheeled drive, four-wheeled drive, pivot steer, rear-wheel steering
and four-wheeled steering.
Many telehandlers are fitted with stabilizers which are deployed when the machine is
stationary to provide additional stability and enhance the machine's lifting capacity.
Telehandlers are often fitted with a feature which allows the chassis to be levelled laterally,
where appropriate, before the boom is raised, when the machine is standing on uneven
ground.
A typical example is shown in Figure 10

Figure 10 - Typical Non-rotating Telehandler

5.2 Rotating Telehandlers

Rotating telehandlers have all of the features of the non rotating type with the addition of a
rotating or slewing superstructure on which the boom and operators cab are mounted. These
machines also have outriggers fitted at either end of the chassis which enable the entire
chassis to be lifted clear of the ground for maximum stability.
The main advantages of these machines over the non-rotating type is compact chassis size,
enhanced lifting height, increased stability and ease of placing loads without moving the
chassis.
A typical example is shown in Figure 11

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 24 June 2013

 Figure 11 - Typical Rotating Telehandler

5.3 Telehandler Attachments

Telehandlers are very versatile machines which, in addition to lifting of unit loads on forks,
can be fitted with a wide range of attachments such as:-
• Sideshift Forks
• Sweepers
• Block Grabs
• Tipping Skips
• Crane Hooks
• Crane Jibs
• Buckets - General purpose and material handling
• Integrated Access Platforms
It is essential that all attachments are compatible with the telehandler with which they are to
be used. Where necessary and appropriate, the telehandler manufacturer should be
consulted where third party attachments are to be used.

5.4 Quick Hitches

Some telehandlers are fitted with "quick hitches" or "quick couplers" which enable
attachments to be changed easily and rapidly. They fall into two types:-
5.4.1 Mechanical Quick Hitch
With the mechanical quick hitch, the hitch is engaged with the attachment, using the boom
functions combined with fork carriage tilt. Once the quick hitch and attachment are engaged,
a locking pin(s) is/are inserted and secured with a retaining pin.
5.4.2 Hydraulic Quick Hitch
The hydraulic quick hitch is engaged in the same manner as the mechanical quick hitch but
the locking pin(s) is/are engaged hydraulically using the controls in the telehandler cab
Both types of quick hitch can allow the attachment to become detached from the quick hitch
if the manual locking pin is left out or the hydraulic locking pin fails to engage fully. There
have been several serious injuries caused by falling attachments and misuse.

It is essential that operators get out of the cab to physically ensure that all quick hitches
are securely locked before starting work with a newly attached attachment.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 25 June 2013

 5.5 Further Guidance
Further Guidance on quick hitches is given in:-
• The Strategic Forum for Construction Best Practice Guide on the Safe Use of Quick
Hitches on Excavators.
• Annex G

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 26 June 2013

6.0 Selection of Telehandlers and Attachments
6.1 Selection of Telehandlers
An effective and safe telehandler is one which is well matched to the type and size of load
to be carried and lifted, together with the environment in which it is to be used. The
selection process should at least take into account the following points:-
• Is the site of adequate size for the use of telehandlers?
• Is a telehandler an appropriate machine for this application?
• What are the weight, dimensions and characteristics of both the telehandler and the
load(s) to be lifted?
• What are the radii and height of lift required?
• How far will the loads have to be carried and over what sort of terrain?
• What are the number, frequency and types of lifting operation?
• What space is available for telehandler access, deployment, operation and stowage,
including the space required for correct deployment of stabilizers?
• Is there a need for attachments such as buckets, work platforms or lifting hooks?
• What is the effect of the operating environment on the telehandler and vice versa?
• Is there a need for the telehandler to travel on public roads?
• Is operator selection a criterion for machine selection?
• What is the source of the telehandler - user's own fleet, hired in or purchased?
• Will the operator have adequate visibility for the location in which it will be used?
• Is a telehandler still an appropriate machine for this application?
The selection of the telehandler and any attachments should be part of the planning
process (See 3.0)

6.2 Selection of Attachments

Attachments for use with telehandlers should be chosen with care to ensure that that the
combination of telehandler and attachment is both safe and productive. The selection
process should at least take into account the following points:-
• Which make and model of telehandler is the attachment going to be fitted to?
• What task is the attachment required for?
• Which type of attachment is best suited to the application?
• Is the attachment approved for use on that machine?
• Is the attachment compatible with the telehandler?
• Are load charts and user instructions available for the use of the attachment on the
specific telehandler?
• Is the telehandler operator both familiar with and competent to operate the
attachment?
• Will the operator require additional training and/or familiarisation?
• Who will be carrying out fitting and removal of the attachment and are they
competent to do so?

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 27 June 2013

 • Are there particular hazards associated with the location and/or the task to be carried
out?
• Will the attachment be sourced from the telehandler manufacturer, from an
attachments manufacturer or from a third party?
• Will the attachment be sourced from the telehandler owner’s own stock?
Attachments should be designed for use with a specific machine, CE marked to the
Machinery Directive and supplied with an EC Declaration of Conformity as items of
"interchangeable equipment". They should also be supplied with instructions to enable them
to be assembled and used safely with the specific telehandler. The instructions should
specify which telehandlers the attachment can be safely assembled and used with, either
by reference to the technical characteristics of the telehandler or, where necessary, by
reference to specific models of telehandler.
It should be noted that where an attachment is not CE marked or supplied with an EC
Declaration of Conformity, the person who assembles the telehandler/attachment
combination is responsible for conformity of the new machine with the requirements of the
Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.
Specific guidance on the classification and CE marking of attachments is given in:-
CECE guidance on the classification of attachments to construction equipment for the
machinery directive 2006/42/EC, Committee for European Construction Equipment

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 28 June 2013

7.0 Provision of Information
7.1 Introduction
The wide variation of designs and the increasing complexity of telehandler technology
make it essential that supervisors and operators are supplied with adequate information to
enable them to carry out their duties effectively and safely. Information comes in various
forms and from several sources, including telehandler and attachment manufacturers.
Telehandler owners must ensure that a robust system is in place to provide adequate up to
date information to users and maintenance personnel. This may be achieved in a number
of ways including:-
• Provision of paper manuals using a system which will ensure frequent updating is
taking place;
• Provision of electronic manuals using a system which will ensure frequent updating
is taking place;
• A central technical information function which can be contacted for up to date
information whenever maintenance is taking place.
NOTE: It is essential that a system is in place to ensure that manual updates, safety alerts and other
information are communicated speedily to those who need to know.
NOTE: It is essential that information is provided in appropriate languages for non English speakers. The
assessment of language skills should form part of all risk assessment carried out as part of the
planning process for the safe use and maintenance of telehandlers. The Guidance to Regulation
10 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations says "The information provided
should be pitched appropriately, given the level of training, knowledge and experience of the
employee. It should be provided in a form which takes account of any language difficulties or
disabilities. Information can be understood by everyone. For employees with little or no
understanding of English, or who cannot read English, employers may need to make special
arrangements. These could include providing translation, using interpreters, or replacing written
notices with clearly understood symbols or diagrams.”

7.2 Manufacturer’s Information

Information supplied by the telehandler manufacturer will be the main source of instructions
and specifications for using and maintaining telehandlers. The primary document will be the
operator's handbook for the specific telehandler model (and in some cases serial number),
supplemented by the maintenance manual and technical information bulletins. Care should
be taken to ensure that the information is up to date and relevant to the telehandler that is
being used and maintained.
Manufacturer’s manuals are not always complete and in the case where a particular task is
not covered, the manufacturer or supplier must be contacted for information BEFORE the
task is undertaken.

7.3 Overlaps and Shortfalls

The combination of a telehandler and an attachment may not have been supplied by one
manufacturer. Frequently the attachment will have been supplied by a specialist
manufacturer for retrofitting to an existing telehandler. Consequently the information
covering the telehandler/attachment combination will have come from at least two sources
and there is the danger that information may either overlap in a conflicting fashion or have
gaps where a significant piece of information is missing from both sources. In this case the
user must consult both manufacturers and suppliers to ensure that any shortfalls or
discrepancies in information are rectified.

7.4 Instruction Labels

Most telehandlers manufacturers provide short form instructions on adhesive labels fitted to
the telehandler's cab in a position where they can be clearly seen by the operator. Care

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 29 June 2013

should be taken to ensure that the instruction labels are current and in good condition. Load
charts such as those shown in Figure 12 must be provided in the cab in easy view of the
operator. These are often in the form of "flip over" charts giving the rated capacity at varying
radii for loads carried on forks and a variety of attachments. Information formats vary from
manufacturer to manufacturer and operators must be fully familiar with the information for
the specific machine they are operating. The condition of all labels should be part of the
daily checks and damaged or illegible labels replaced.

Figure 12 – Typical Load Charts

7.5 In-House Technical Information
Some telehandler owners will have their own technical information dealing with specific
issues relating to the machines in their fleet. This can be a useful source of information for
personnel but care should be taken to ensure that information is current, and that all out of
date information has been withdrawn.

7.6 Machine History

The history of the repairs and maintenance carried out to a telehandler is often very helpful
when trying to diagnose faults and repeated failures. Maintenance personnel should be
encouraged to contact their manager or supervisor to request relevant machine history
details when appropriate.

7.7 Information Formats

Paper information such as manuals and bulletins is rapidly being replaced by electronic
formats such as CD-ROM and website downloads. This has the advantage that physical
storage space is kept to a minimum and in the case of website downloads, information
should be up to date at the point of access. However the use of electronic display devices,
such as laptop computers, during maintenance is not always easy or practical. Information
may therefore have to be printed out for use on site, in which case, care should be taken
that for any subsequent use the data is still current and relevant.

7.8 Management of Information

Information should be managed effectively if it is to be of maximum benefit to those
involved in the maintenance process. Outdated information can at best waste time and at
worst may well affect safety. It is therefore essential that organisations carrying out
maintenance on telehandlers ensure that they have robust systems and procedures to
ensure that maintenance personnel are supplied with adequate information that is both up
to date and accurate.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 30 June 2013

8.0 Planning, Supervisory and Operating Personnel
8.1 General Work Related Competence for Telehandler Operations
An often used definition of a competent person is “a person who has such practical and
theoretical knowledge, experience and capacity as is necessary to safely carry out the task
to which the term relates in each particular context”. A person who is competent to carry out
one task will not necessarily be competent to carry out another with the same equipment.
For example an operator who is competent to lift and place unit loads may not be
competent to work with suspended loads.
Employers must ensure that their personnel are competent to work safely with telehandler
operations. Employers must therefore assess the competence of their staff and, where
necessary, provide training to achieve the level of competence required. The training needs
to reflect the ability and level of responsibility of the individual, degree of complexity of the
task and the risks involved.
Employers have a duty to both ensure the health of their employees and to ensure that any
employee is fit to undertake the tasks they are required to carry out by ongoing
assessment. Further guidance on assessing the medical fitness of construction plant
operators is given in the Strategic Forum for Construction - Plant Safety Group Medical
Fitness to Operate Construction Plant - Good Practice Guide.

8.2 Attributes and Selection

It is essential that planning, supervisory and operating personnel involved with the
selection, and use of telehandlers have the necessary attributes to ensure that they will be
able to carry out their duties both effectively and safely. The necessary attributes for
planning, supervisory and operating personnel are set out below.

8.2.1 Competent Persons (planning) Attributes

Competent Persons carrying out planning of the use of telehandlers should know and
understand:
• The principles of telehandler operation;
• What the telehandler can and cannot be used for;
• The hazards associated with telehandler operation including;
o overturning
o electrocution – contacting overhead power lines
o colliding with pedestrians
o crushes and trapping
o falling loads
o falling from height (when lifting people)
o loss of control
o insecure attachments
• The checks and inspections that are required on a daily and weekly basis;
• What can happen if the telehandler is poorly maintained;
• How to attach and detach an attachment in the prescribed manner;
• How to carry out checks to ensure the attachment has been correctly engaged;
• That all work must be carried out to a Method Statement and that the Method
Statement is a description of the safe system of work developed from a risk
assessment of the task to be undertaken;
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 31 June 2013
 • That accidents and incidents are mainly caused by incorrect planning and use;
• The increased risks when telehandlers are being operated in the vicinity of other
people and ensure/maintain an exclusion zone wherever possible;
• Their responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Competent Persons should be able to:
• Carry out a risk assessment of the work to be carried out;
• Develop a safe system of work based on the outcomes of the risk assessment;
• Record the safe system of work in a Method Statement;
• Carry out an effective observation and know what to look for;
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, operators and line managers;
• Recognise bad practice and unsafe behaviour;
• Develop good working relationships;
• Raise health and safety standards;
• Display consistency and be persistent;
• Raise and address issues confidently and not be afraid of conflict.

8.2.2 Supervisor Attributes

Supervisors should know and understand:
• The principles of telehandler operation;
• What the telehandler can and cannot be used for;
• The hazards associated with telehandler operation including;
o overturning
o electrocution – contacting overhead power lines
o colliding with pedestrians
o crushes and trapping
o falling loads
o falling from height (when lifting people)
o loss of control
o insecure attachments
• The checks and inspections that are required on a daily and weekly basis;
• What can happen if the telehandler is poorly maintained;
• How to attach and detach an attachment in the prescribed manner;
• How to carry out checks to ensure the attachment has been correctly engaged;
• That work must be carried out to the Method Statement unless it is unsafe to do so in
which case work must stop;
• That accidents and incidents are mainly caused by incorrect planning and use;
• The increased risks when telehandlers are being operated in the vicinity of other
people and ensure/maintain an exclusion zone wherever possible;
• Their responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 32 June 2013

Supervisors should be able to:
• Carry out an effective observation and know what to look for
• Communicate effectively with operators and line managers
• Recognise bad practice and unsafe behaviour
• Develop good working relationships
• Raise health and safety standards
• Display consistency and be persistent
• Raise and address issues confidently and not be afraid of conflict

8.2.3 Operator Attributes

Operators should know and understand:
• The principles of telehandler operation
• What the telehandler can and cannot be used for
• The hazards associated with telehandler operation including:
o overturning
o electrocution – contacting overhead power lines
o colliding with pedestrians
o crushes and trapping
o falling loads
o falling from height (when lifting people)
o loss of control
o insecure attachments
• What can happen if the telehandler is poorly maintained
• They must physically leave the cab and check any attachment or quick-hitch before
work commences or recommences following fitment
• That they must organise their work in accordance with the Method Statement (generic
or task specific), including coordination with others who may be affected, and follow
the Method Statement unless it is unsafe to do so, in which case work must stop.
• That they must report all unsafe working practices and faults with their machine to their
supervisor
• That poor planning, operation, training, maintenance, supervision or working
environment, (or a combination thereof), are major contributory factors to
accidents/incidents
• The increased risks when telehandlers are being operated in the vicinity of other
people and ensure/maintain an exclusion zone wherever possible
• The organisational procedures and requirements that they need to follow
• The need for familiarisation training before operating new or unfamiliar types of
telehandler and/or attachment
• Their responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act
• Their limitations in organising their work or operating the machine in any given
environment
Operators should be able to:
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 33 June 2013
 • Communicate effectively with other workers and line managers
• Interpret relevant information and follow given instructions
• Organise the work activity or part of the work activity with others
• Select and/or request resources and additional equipment required
• Carry out the checks and pre-use inspections that are required on a daily and/or
weekly basis as required
• Attach and detach an attachment in the prescribed manner
• Carry out checks to ensure the attachment has been correctly engaged
• Operate the telehandler according to manufacturer’s requirements and safe working
practices.
• Raise and address issues confidently and not be afraid of conflict or of stopping work
when necessary to ensure safety

8.3 Assessment of Training Needs

As part of personnel selection an assessment should be made of the extent of training
which is needed for an individual, bearing in mind that this could be influenced by any
previous training and experience. When supervisors or operators are recruited it is essential
that employers check that their qualifications and experience relate to the job they are to
do. Where the type of telehandler to be used is outside the employee’s previous
experience, additional training must be provided. In any event, some further job specific
training is likely to be necessary.
Guidance on the assessment of training needs is given in HSE (L117) Rider operator lift
trucks: Operations training Approved Code of Practice and Guidance.
Guidance on assessment of training needs for personnel carrying out maintenance and
through examination is given in the CPA Best Practice Guide on the Maintenance,
Inspection and Thorough Examination of Mobile Cranes

8.4 Training
Any gaps in the knowledge, skills and understanding of competent persons (planning),
supervisors and operators must be remedied by suitable and sufficient training. This may
be carried out in-house or by an external training provider. At the end of the training period
the trainee must be assessed to ensure that the training objectives have been met.
Requirements for telehandler operator basic training are set out in HSE (L117) Rider
operator lift trucks: Operations training Approved Code of Practice and Guidance.
Basic telehandler operator training does not include the lifting of suspended loads,
the lifting of persons or the use of other attachments. If such tasks are to be carried
out the employer must ensure that the operator is suitably trained and assessed as
competent. This can normally be carried out by a local training provider.

8.5 Assessment
Employers should ensure that personnel are assessed against occupational standards to
establish that they are competent to carry out the tasks they are required to undertake. This
applies equally to personnel completing training and those experienced workers who have
been recently recruited.
Assessment should contain both practical elements to demonstrate the skills and standards
achieved and the answering of questions to demonstrate relevant underpinning knowledge.
The assessment should be carried out by occupationally competent and authorised
assessors.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 34 June 2013

8.6 Applying Learnt Skills in the Workplace
On the majority of telehandler training programmes, for safety reasons, candidates do not
operate the machine at its full potential, particularly in terms of placing heavy loads at full
operating height and reach - most schemes only specify activities of up to 75% of full
operating height. Consequently employers should ensure that newly trained operators are
limited to activities and/or working areas encountered within the training programme until
they become confident in operating to the parameters experienced within training. When
being required to place heavy loads at full reach and/or height, appropriate supervision
must be applied to ensure the operator can safely carry out the task.
Telehandler training courses for the construction sector generally concentrate on activities
using the forks, and do not cover the use of attachments, particularly for lifting operations
where a hook is used. Employers and supervisors should be aware of skills attained during
the training course and provide further specific training as required. Manufacturers and
importers of attachments, as well as external training providers, who offer telehandler
training, can be approached for advice on relevant training requirements.
For newly qualified operators, employers and supervisors should:
1. Specify any particular work requirements to nominated training providers prior to the
commencement of training;
2. Establish the type and the content of training and/ or assessment programmes
undertaken by the operator;
3. Identify differences in learnt skills and the work site utilising training body learning
outcomes and/or training material;
4. Initially limit the operator to activities and/or working areas encountered within the
training programme;
5. Provide time for the operator to study the machine’s operating notes/handbook and
other related data;
6. Provide time and facilities for the operator to practice with the new machine type;
7. Monitor work undertaken to gauge operator confidence and ability;
8. Introduce new activities and/or working areas under supervision, especially if lifting
loads to heights higher than previously encountered, or working within hazardous or
busy areas;
9. Carry out periodic assessments and ascertain when new or high risk activities can
be undertaken safely;
10. Provide specific additional training for such activities as lifting operations using a
hook and other types of attachment.
NOTE: Learning outcomes and a training syllabus for telehandlers is publically available from The
Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS). Content is based on national occupation standards and
can be downloaded at www/cskills.org/cpcs. Other training organisations may also provide training content.

8.7 Further guidance

Further guidance on training is given in:
• HSE (L117) Rider operator lift trucks: Operations training Approved Code of
Practice and Guidance: 1999 ISBN-0-7176-2455.2
• Annex G

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 35 June 2013

9.0 Familiarisation
Telehandlers and attachments come in a variety of shapes and sizes with significant
differences in operating controls and characteristics. It is therefore essential that operators
and supervisors are given adequate familiarisation on an unfamiliar type or model of
telehandler and/or attachment before they begin operations. The employer of the
telehandler operator is responsible for ensuring that familiarisation is provided.
Familiarisation may be carried out by:-
• an experienced person employed by the telehandler owner or;
• a representative of the telehandler or attachment manufacturer or supplier or;
• any other competent and authorised person.
The person giving familiarisation should have been assessed by a suitably trained person
to ensure that they are competent to do so.
All familiarisation should be recorded by both the provider and the employer of the operator.
Familiarisation for the operator of a telehandler should include the following:-
• Layout and use of controls;
• Identification of specific areas of risk whilst using specific telehandler and/or
attachment;
• Machine specific safe working procedures for connection and disconnection of
attachments;
• Machine specific visual inspections of the telehandler or attachment;
• Machine specific "pre start checks" and basic maintenance requirements as
recommended by the manufacturer.
An example check list for carrying out familiarisation is shown in Annex E

9.1 Further guidance

Further guidance on familiarisation is given in:
• HSE (L117) Rider operator lift trucks: Operations training Approved Code of
Practice and Guidance 1999, HSE Books.
• Annex G

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 36 June 2013

 10.0 Safe Use of Telehandlers
10.1 General
The safe operation of a telehandler starts with site management. The decision to buy or
provide a specific telehandler may well have been made as a corporate decision, or the
equipment hired in, but it is the site management who are ultimately responsible for it being
put to into use. The site management must therefore ensure that the operation to be carried
out has been effectively planned (See Section 3.0) taking into consideration all the safety
issues which can arise, even where these are as a result of predictable misuse. The
following points highlight some of the potential issues:-
• When there is a telehandler accident the operator is inevitably involved. It is
therefore essential that they are given sufficient training and information to enable
them to know how to operate and check the telehandler. The operator also needs to
be authorised, preferably in writing;
• Only those people who are authorised to use a telehandler and are familiarised with
that machine should actually use it. Consequently there is a requirement for robust
arrangements to ensure that access to telehandlers is controlled and monitored.
This may be means such as recorded key issue or the fitment of immobilisers;
• As all equipment on a telehandler is subject to wear and deterioration and can
suffer damage, it is important that the telehandler and any attachments are
adequately inspected and maintained to avoid increased risk of failure of the
machine or any attachment;
• Fatalities involving telehandlers have been associated with travelling or
manoeuvring, where a person has been struck or crushed by the telehandler, or
with lifting operations where persons have been struck by a falling load. Accidents
also occur when telehandlers are used to manipulate or support loads in confined
areas whilst others are either working on or supporting the load. Persons, including
the operator, have also been fatally injured by overturning machine both whilst
travelling and during lifting operations (See 10.11). The site management needs to
make sure no-one is required to be beneath the forks or attachment at any time.
They also need to ensure that activities such as attachment changing are
segregated, preferably in clearly defined exclusion zones.

10.2 Supervision
To ensure that unsafe acts are minimised it is essential that supervision is effective. The
supervisor therefore needs to:
• Check that the Method Statement is being worked to;
• Check that the method is as safe as possible;
• Check that people are kept clear of hazardous areas;
• Check that telehandlers are being used correctly;
• Check that tasks are only carried out by authorised people;
• Challenge unsafe practices;
• Record and arrange for the repair of any damage they see or have reported to
them;
• Have the authority and ability to stop a task if they feel it is unsafe;
• Report and record unsafe behaviour (including near misses).

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 37 June 2013

10.3 Visibility
10.3.1 Visibility of Persons in the Vicinity of the Telehandler
Restricted visibility when the boom is raised or when large loads are carried, plus poor
segregation have been identified as a major cause of accidents involving pedestrians and
telehandlers. Telehandlers are often fitted with aids to improve visibility and the operator's
awareness of people in the vicinity of the telehandler. These aids should be in good
working order and properly adjusted. It is the operator’s responsibility to check the
condition of all secondary aids to visibility and NOT TO USE THE MACHINE if they are not
present or not working correctly. It is the Supervisor’s responsibility to fully support the
operator in this action.
Some parts of a telehandler work cycle present particular challenges. A suspended load,
for example, will clearly block some forward view, but the raised boom may also obscure
the view to the side. If a telehandler is to lift suspended loads on site, the physical
dimensions of the loads and their effect upon visibility must form part of the Risk
Assessment.
If a telehandler is used to load or unload a truck, the partially raised boom will obstruct view
to the forward offside and may block the wing mirror giving visibility to the rear offside. The
safest way of using a telehandler to load/offload is to keep the machine stationary and use
the telescopic facility of the boom, rather than using the wheels. The driver of the truck
should remain in a designated safe location for such operations.
Whilst the Principal Contractor has the primary responsibility to ensure adequate
segregation and the Supervisor must ensure that it is enforced, it is remains the operator's
responsibility to look around and check for the absence of pedestrians before moving and
whilst manoeuvring and travelling. If the operator cannot see clearly, they should seek
assistance or leave the cab to look around to confirm it is safe to continue the procedure.
Advice on the selection of visibility aids is given in 4.6.
NOTE: The offside is the right hand side of the telehandler when facing forward

10.3.2 Visibility of the Load Being Lifted

The vertical reach of telehandlers is increasing all the time and at the time of writing is up to
22m. As a consequence, the operator will not always be able to keep the load in full view
and may have difficulty in judging the distance of the load from the landing/pick-up point or
any obstructions. This issue should be taken into account when planning telehandler
operations and consideration given to whether or not a telehandler is the most suitable
machine for placing loads at great heights.
Where it is clear that the operator is not able to keep the load in full view or will have
difficulty in judging the distance of the load from the landing/pick-up point or any
obstructions, a signaller should be provided.
If a signaller is used, consideration should be given to the means of signalling i.e. hand
signals or portable radio.
Some telehandlers allow the use of remote controls for boom functions which may mean
that the operator can keep the load in view at all times. There are however several potential
disadvantages that must be taken into account in planning the lifting operations:-
• The telehandler operator may well be at risk of tripping and falling when trying to
move around the site over uneven ground whilst concentrating on controlling the
telehandler. Pedestrian operated telehandlers should only be controlled whilst the
operator is stationary;
• The operator may not have a good view of the load and any obstructions,
consequently the operator must always have the telehandler boom and load in sight
at all times, unless working under the direction of a signaller who has a clear view of
the load and load path.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 38 June 2013

10.4 Site Conditions
Employers have legal obligations to plan and control the operation of telehandlers on site.
Operators and contractors need to be made aware of site hazards which could affect the
safe use of telehandlers and of site rules which limit where they may be used.
Particular attention should be paid to:
10.4.1 Traffic Management
Sites should be arranged so that wherever possible pedestrians and vehicles are
adequately separated by establishing:-
• Pedestrian only areas from which vehicles are completely excluded;
• Safe designated pedestrian routes to work locations;
• Vehicle only areas, especially where space is limited or traffic is heavy:
• Safe vehicle routes around the site.
When planning the movement of vehicles on site the advice given in HSG 144 should be
followed.
NOTE: On some house building sites the site is organised so that telehandlers deliver material to the front
of the houses and pedestrians enter the properties via the rear. Drives are laid early in the planning
process to provide good lifting surfaces.

10.4.2 Site Housekeeping

Areas where a telehandler may be used should be kept free of rubbish such as bricks,
pallets, timber, etc. Such debris can significantly affect the safe operation of a telehandler.

10.4.3 Roads, Access Ways and Entrances

Consolidated roads should be provided at the earliest possible stage of site development to
minimise the need to travel on uneven or unstable terrain. Where off road operation is
unavoidable, operators should be made aware of hazards which could contribute to
overturning risks or other factors that can affect the safe use of a telehandler. These
include loss of steering control/direction, loss of traction and braking – even on level
surfaces, hidden obstacles, visibility (mud coating mirrors) and loads fouling the ground.

10.4.4 Operating on Public Roads

When operating a telehandler on Public Roads the following rules should be followed:
• The operator must hold a driving licence of an appropriate category. This is currently
a full Category B (car) licence.
NOTE: The following age restrictions apply - vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of more
than 3,5 tonnes but less than 7.5 tonnes may be driven from the age of 18, vehicles which weight
more than 7.5 tonnes can be driven from the age of 21.
NOTE: Additional information is given in the DVLA Information Leaflet INF52 - Information for
drivers of large vehicles.

• The telehandler must be registered in accordance with the Vehicle Excise and
Registration Act, display a number plate and be appropriately insured;
• Telehandlers should be driven in compliance with the provisions of the Highway
Code;
• Telehandlers should be equipped with appropriate lighting;
• Telehandlers should be equipped with a flashing amber beacon when travelling at
less than 25 mph on an unrestricted dual carriageway;
• Independent wheel braking systems, if fitted, must be linked;
• Telehandlers fitted with all wheel steering systems should have the rear wheels
locked in line with the chassis;
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 39 June 2013
 • Four wheel drive systems should normally be disengaged, as should differential
locks;
• Before travelling on the Public Road, fork arms should be either removed or folded
back and secured. If this is not possible it is essential that marker plates are fitted to
the fork arms or load handling attachment to warn oncoming traffic. These marker
plates must be illuminated during the hours of darkness. Any forward projection must
not exceed 2.0m.

10.4.5 Operating as a "Works Truck"

Under certain circumstances telehandlers are permitted to travel for short distances on a
Public Road as a "Works Truck" as for example "in delivering goods from or to such
premises to or from a vehicle on a road in the immediate neighbourhood, or in passing from
one part of any such premises to another or to other private premises in the immediate
neighbourhood or in connection with road works while at or in the immediate
neighbourhood of the site of such works". Further advice on Works Trucks is given in the
Department for Transport Information Sheet - Works Trucks: A brief guide.
The operator must hold a driving licence of an appropriate category. This is currently a full
Category B (car) licence.
NOTE: The following age restrictions apply - vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of more than 3,5
tonnes but less than 7.5 tonnes may be driven from the age of 18, vehicles which weight more than 7.5
tonnes can be driven from the age of 21.
NOTE: Additional information is given in the DVLA Information Leaflet INF52 - Information for drivers of
large vehicles.

10.5 Travelling on Inclines, Slopes and Gradients

The telehandler must only operate on slopes/gradients at a speed designated by the site,
taking into account ground conditions, to ensure that the operator has full control at all
times.
Traffic routes should be on consolidated ground or may be temporary roadways giving
equivalent safety. The slopes/gradients given in Table 1 are to assist planners in the
preparation of traffic routes. They are the maximum gradients on which a telehandler can
travel while being operated when crossing sites in the standard travelling mode and at
walking speed. The standard travelling mode of a telehandler is with the boom retracted,
the load/fork arms lowered to provide a clearance of 300mm and not more than 500mm
(See manufacturer's instruction manual) from the ground to the upper faces of the fork
arms, and the fork arms fully tilted rearwards.
Operation on any traffic route with a greater slope or in a travelling mode different to the
above should be subject to a site specific risk assessment.
NOTE : Consolidated ground is firm ground capable of accepting the mass of a loaded Telehandler
without significant deformation.

Slope % Gradient Angle

Maximum down slope

Maximum up slope 15% 1 in 6.66 8.5°

Maximum lateral slope

Table 1 - Maximum Slopes for Planning Purposes

A telehandler can generally obtain sufficient wheel grip (especially when laden) to climb
slopes/gradients steeper than those they can safely be driven down. However, a
telehandler capable of being driven up an incline may not always be controlled safely on
that incline.
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 40 June 2013
This is especially so if:
• The laden/unladen state is changed;
• The recommended driving direction is not adopted;
• The telehandler has not been properly maintained;
• The telehandler is driven too fast and/or is subjected to abrupt changes of speed or
direction;
• The gradient that was firm, dry and smooth has become a hazardous wet uneven
slippery slope when the weather changes;
• The telehandler has traction and braking facilities on one axle only or is four wheel
drive but is operated in the two wheel drive mode.

10.5.1 Travelling on Steep Slopes

If the telehandler is required to travel on greater gradients than those quoted as maximum
for planning purposes or to travel in a non-standard travelling mode (i.e. with the boom
raised or extended in any way) (See 4.3) then risk assessment will be required by a
competent person who has access to the telehandler manufacturer's information for use
and understands the risks involved. The risk assessment should take account of any
dynamic effects created by the load in its travelling position, ground conditions and any
necessary speed limits, e.g. walking speed. Operators who have been trained in the
handling of dynamic and raised loads and who are familiar with the telehandler
manufacturer's information for use should be capable of carrying out this risk assessment.

10.5.2 Parking on Steep Slopes

It should be recognised that telehandlers must never be parked on a steep slope or
gradient. If, in an emergency there is no alternative and a telehandler has to be parked on
a slope or gradient, the wheels must be chocked and load or forks left in the fully lowered or
grounded position. When approaching an incline the correct driving direction and travelling
position must be adopted.
The minimum parking brake performance of 15% (1 in 6.6 gradient, 8.5°) is based on a test
carried out on a dry clean concrete or consolidated asphalt surface. If a truck is operated
on slopes and gradients which are steeper than this or with an inferior surface, the parking
brake may not be able to hold the telehandler stationary or the wheels may slip on the
surface.
Telehandlers are capable of climbing gradients in excess of their parking brake capability.
Should steep slopes and gradients exist on site and it is necessary to negotiate them with a
telehandler there are precautions which should be taken and operating techniques adopted
to provide adequate safety:-
• Carefully choose routes or prepare the terrain to avoid very steep slopes and
gradients and slippery or loose surfaces;
• Adopt the correct driving direction and travelling position for negotiating a slope or
gradient, i.e. when a load is carried, the load should face uphill. When no load is
carried the fork arms should face downhill;
• Always avoid turning on or traversing a slope or gradient (unless the machine is
specifically equipped for this manoeuvre) and always descend straight down the
gentlest gradient of a slope, instead of driving diagonally across it;
• Never attempt to stack/de-stack a load on a slope or gradient;
• Avoid sharp turns when travelling on a slope or gradient;
• There is always a risk of sideways overturn or rear overturn when moving with a
raised boom, even in a unladen condition.

10.6 Weight of the Load to be Lifted

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 41 June 2013

The operator of a telehandler should always be provided with the accurate weight of the
load to be lifted. This can be ascertained from:-
• The manufacturer's data plate;
• Markings on the load;
• Manufacturer's data sheets or instructions;
• Drawings;
• Shipping documents;
• Weighing the load.
Where this is not possible the load should be estimated by calculating the volume and
using the using the information given in Table 2. Such calculations should be undertaken
with caution as the load may not be a regular shape, it may be made from several materials
or it may be hollow and contain other materials which may move when lifted.

3 3
Material Weight - kg/m Weight - lb/ft
Aluminium 2 700 170
Brass 8 500 530
Brick 2 100 130
Broken Glass 1 290 –1 940 80 –121
Coal 1 450 90
Concrete 2 400 150
Copper 8 800 550
Earth 1 600 100
Gravel (loose, dry) 1 522 95
Iron and Steel 7 700 480
Lead 11 200 700
Oil 800 50
Paper 1 120 70
Sand (dry) 1 602 100
Sand (wet) 1 922 120
Water 1 000 62
Wood (hard) 500 - 1000 31 - 62
Wood (soft) 350 - 850 22 - 53
NOTE 1 In some cases the values given are an average and the actual weight could vary according
to the particular composition/water content, etc.
NOTE 2 All values have been rounded for convenience of use.
NOTE 3 When dealing with a hollow structure or container, check whether or not it contains anything
and whether or not any such contents are liable to move.
NOTE 4 When assessing the load, ensure that the weight of the lifting accessories and/or container
used for handling the material is included.

Table 2 - Weights of Materials

10.7 Loading/Unloading
10.7.1 Stability of the Telehandler

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 42 June 2013

The stability of telehandlers and their loads are affected by the conditions of the ground on
which they must stand when loading or unloading.
The area selected by the planners as a static loading area must be large enough to
accommodate all the wheels of the telehandler and stabilisers or outriggers when fitted.
The area should be of consolidated firm ground or surfaces giving similar levels of safety. It
should be capable of accepting the mass of the loaded telehandler without significant
deformation and be substantially level in both planes to ensure lateral and longitudinal
stability when lifting operations are being carried out. Substantially level ground is defined
as ground with a gradient of ideally 1% (1 in 100 gradient, 0.6°) but not more than the
standard drainage slope of 2.5% (1 in 40 gradient, 1.4°).
When determining the area to be used for the unloading of lorries and the storage of
materials, care should be taken to ensure the ground is consolidated and substantially
level. The area provided must be large enough that the telehandler will not need to make
tight turns with an elevated load.
A telehandler may be used for loading/unloading operations in areas which are not
substantially level if they are used within their design capabilities. Where the achievement
of a substantially level loading/unloading area is not reasonably practicable a risk
assessment will be necessary.
NOTE: A telehandler fitted with level indicators can indicate where a machine can be used for
loading/unloading on lateral (side) slopes. Under these circumstances the operator can carry out the risk
assessment by referring to the level indicator before raising the telehandler boom above its standard
travelling mode position.
NOTE: When a telehandler is not fitted with a level indicator the risk assessment should be carried out by
a person who has access to the telehandler manufacturer’s information and who has the necessary
competence to specify the limiting boom height and extension figures which should not be exceeded.

10.7.2 Stability of the Load

When using a telehandler for loading or unloading a vehicle or stack, care must be taken to
ensure that the load on the vehicle or stack is stable. Unless the correct sequence of
loading or unloading is followed there is risk of the load becoming unstable with the
potential for injury to persons in the vicinity. Loading should always be carried out with
unloading in mind. Vehicles should always be loaded from the front or as directed by the
vehicle driver, working from side to side and distributing the load evenly. Unloading should
be carried out by reversing this sequence. When loading uncoupled articulated trailers, the
first part of the load should be placed over the rear axle before loading from the front of the
trailer.
Care should also be taken to ensure that the part of the load on the vehicle or stack is not
dislodged by contact with the telehandler carriage, forks or other attachments. During
loading and unloading measures such as exclusion zones or barriers, should be put in
place to ensure that personnel are kept clear of falling loads.
Before lifting a load it should be assessed to ensure that it will be stable and secure during
lifting. The forks should always be evenly spaced on either side of the centre of gravity of
the load. Long or irregularly shaped loads may have a centre of gravity which is close to the
edges of the forks and may well result in the load falling during lifting. Long loads can be
easier to control where a wider fork carriage is used (See Figure 14) and personnel should
be kept clear of the load. They should NOT be asked to steady the load!
The practice of “undercutting” where the load is lifted on the ends of the forks, rather than
back at the heel, closest to the fork carriage, is often used when the load is to be placed
adjacent to a wall or another item. This practice will reduce the rated capacity of the
telehandler and may affect the stability of the load as its centre of gravity may be near or
beyond the end of the forks.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 43 June 2013

 Figure 14 - Use of Wider Fork Carriage

10.7.3 Other Issues

• When lifting loads up to scaffolding, the load should always be landed on the
scaffolding or a loading tower before unloading to avoid spillage of the load or injury
to personnel on the scaffolding. The scaffolding or loading tower should be of
suitable load bearing capacity.
• As a general rule, no part of a telehandler should be brought closer than 15 metres
to overhead power lines suspended from steel towers or 9 meters to overhead lines
supported on poles, See Figures 15 & 16. In case of doubt the electricity supply
authority should be consulted. Further advice is given in HSE Publication GS6 -
Avoidance of Danger from Overhead Electric Power Lines 1997, HSE Books.

Figure 15 - Minimum Safe Distance from Pole Mounted Power Lines up to 33kV

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 44 June 2013

Figure 16 - Minimum Safe Distance from Tower Mounted Power Lines above 33kV

• Where necessary a competent banksman should be provided to guide the operator

by means of the recognised hand signals. Details of hand signals are given in BS
7121-1:2006, Code of practice for safe use of cranes — Part 1: General.
• Ensure all bystanders and/or workers are clear of the area where the elevated load
could tip or fall.
• Operators should never attempt to get out of the cab whilst the machine is in
motion.

10.8 Fitting of Attachments

When fitting attachments to a telehandler the following points should be observed:-
• The attachment should be compatible and approved for use with the telehandler;
• Particular care should be taken when using fork extensions as these will tend to
move the load centre out from the fork carriage, altering the rated capacity of the
machine and increasing the load on the fork carriage levelling system;
• The operator should be familiar with the attachment process for the specific make
and model of telehandler;
• Fitting and removal of attachments should be carried out in a suitable safe area,
from which other personnel are excluded;
• Care should be taken to ensure that hydraulic hoses are depressurised before they
are disconnected;
• Before raising the telehandler boom and attachment the operator should ensure
that any locking device (this will depend on the type and make of quick hitch) is in
place and secure. This will generally involve the operator getting out of the cab,
after applying the brake, to physically ensure that the quick hitch is securely locked
before starting work with a newly attached attachment.

10.9 Use of Lifting Hooks or Crane Jibs for Suspended Loads

Many telehandlers can be fitted with a lifting hook or crane jib for lifting suspended loads
(See Figures 17, 18 & 19), however before carrying out lifting of suspended loads the
operation should be reviewed to ensure that a telehandler is the most appropriate piece of
lifting equipment for the task.
The lifting of suspended loads should always be carried out with a telehandler that is fitted
with a suitable lifting hook or attachment. If this can be shown to be not reasonably
practicable, it is essential that any other method is justified by a robust risk assessment,
taking account of the hierarchy of control.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 45 June 2013

Any lifting hook or crane jib should be marked with a Rated Capacity (Safe Working Load)
which must not be exceeded; the Rated Capacity of the hook may be less than the Rated
Capacity of the telehandler or vice versa. It is important that the lower of the two values is
used to determine the Rated Capacity of the combination. When working out the total
weight of the load to be lifted the weight of the lifting hook or crane jib and any lifting
accessories (shackles, slings etc.) must be taken into account. Telehandler manufacturers
supplying lifting hooks and crane jibs for their own machines will provide
attachment/machine combination specific load charts where suspended loads are being
lifted and carried. This is intended to reduce the risk of overload or overturn due to
displacement of the load through travelling, boom movements or the effect of wind.
Extreme care should be taken when travelling with a suspended load as any movement of
the load will alter the load radius and may affect the stability of the telehandler.
Regulation 8 of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)
requires that lifting operations are:-
• "properly planned by a competent person;
• appropriately supervised; and
• carried out in a safe manner."
The planning of lifting operations with suspended loads on telehandlers should be planned
in accordance with the requirements of BS 7121-1:2006, Code of practice for the safe use
of cranes - Part 1:General and BS 7121-3:2000, Code of practice for the safe use of cranes
- Part 3: Mobile cranes. Both documents are cited in the HSE's guidance to LOLER.
Annex B provides details of these requirements.
Lifting of suspended loads with a telehandler may well require additional personnel such as
Crane Supervisors and Slinger/Signallers.
Basic telehandler operator training does not include the lifting of suspended loads,
the lifting of persons or the use of other attachments. If such tasks are to be carried
out the employer must ensure that the operator is suitably trained and assessed as
competent. This can normally be carried out by a local training provider.
Further detailed guidance on the lifting of suspended loads is given in:-
• HSE Guidance Document L113 - Safe use of lifting equipment
• Annex G

Figure 18 - Fork Mounted Lifting

Figure 17 - Jib
Hook

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 46 June 2013

 Figure 19 - Jib With Integral Winch

10.10 Use of Telehandlers for the Lifting of Persons

Telehandlers are primarily intended for lifting materials and not people. However, they can
be used with working platforms to allow people to work at height. It is generally accepted
that, in conjunction with a telehandler, an integrated working platform (See Figure 20)
provides a higher level of safety than a non-integrated type (See Figure 21) and should be
used for the lifting of persons on construction sites, where a Mobile Elevating Work Platform
(MEWP) is not available.
Non-integrated platform attachments must not be used for planned tasks on
construction sites.
The design of telehandlers is covered by European standards BS EN 1459 whilst the
design of MEWPs for lifting people is covered by BS EN 280. Consequently,
telehandler/integrated working platform combinations that comply with both the industrial
truck and MEWP Harmonised Standards (or equivalent), give a significantly higher level of
safety than non-integrated platforms.
Further detailed guidance on the use of telehandlers for the lifting of persons is given in:-
• BS 8460:2005, Code of practice for the safe use of MEWPs
• HSE Construction Information Sheet No. 58 - The selection and management of
mobile elevating work platforms
• Strategic Forum for Construction Plant Safety Group - Best Practice Guide for
MEWPs - Avoiding Trapping/Crushing Injuries to People in the Platform
• Annex G

Figure 20 - Integrated Work Platform

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 47 June 2013

 Figure 21 - Non-integrated Work Platform

10.11 Wearing of Seatbelts

Telehandler cabs are provided with seat belts to restrain the operator and reduce the risk of
serious injury in the event of the machine overturning.

A survey of reported telehandler accidents in the UK carried out by the Health and Safety
Executive shows that in seven years there have been at least 72 lateral overturns of
telehandlers. In three cases the operator was killed by being ejected from the cab and
crushed; in a further two cases the operator was ejected from the cab and received serious
crushing injuries. Had three of these operators been wearing their seat belts they would in
all probability have lived.

It is vital that operators of telehandlers wear the seat belt provided at all times – it
could save their lives!

10.12 Leaving the Telehandler

When leaving the cab of the telehandler for any reason, the operator should switch off the
engine and remove the key.
After operations have been completed, the telehandler should be stored in a safe place, on
level ground where possible, with the handbrake engaged, the boom and fork arms /
handling attachment lowered to the ground, the key removed and the cab locked. The key
should be stored in safe place.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 48 June 2013

11.0 Review and Monitoring of the Safe Use of Telehandlers
11.1 General
The review and monitoring of the safe use of telehandlers is an ongoing process and
involves the cooperation of a number of parties.

11.2 Management systems (directly supervising organisation)

The organisation directly supervising the works involving the use of the telehandler may be
a sub-contractor, contractor or principal contractor dependent on the contractual
arrangements. They must have in place suitable management processes for the planning
and implementing of safe systems of work when using telehandlers. These processes must
include details for;
• The selection of telehandlers;
• Inspection and maintenance of telehandlers;
• The development of safe systems of work and communication;
• The appointment of trained competent persons as operators, supervisors and other
relevant operatives.
The organisation must review these management processes to ensure their completeness,
effectiveness and the implementation by staff /employees at all levels, including
management (onsite or off site) and supervision.
It is suggested that the organisation’s management systems are reviewed at least annually,
or before, if significant incidents occur, and that implementation at site level is monitored via
site visits / reviews at maximum monthly intervals. Any necessary corrective actions should
be recorded and closed out.

11.3 Site management (directly supervising organisation)

The site management (based on or off site) of the organisation directly supervising the
works must ensure that;
• The works are adequately planned and co-ordinated;
• Plant coming onto site is entered into a register to enable the checking and
monitoring to be undertaken;
• The telehandler selected is appropriate for the specific task to be undertaken;
• Equipment is inspected and maintained correctly;
• Safe systems of work are developed for the specific telehandler to be used in the
specific task and these safe systems of work are effectively communicated and
implemented;
• Competent persons have been appointed to undertake the specific tasks (plant
operators and others);
• Competent persons have been appointed to supervise the tasks;
• An effective monitoring and review process is in place for the above.
The supervising organisation’s site management must, by observation, monitor site
activities and employee actions including supervisors, operators or others, to ensure the
safe system of work is adhered to and continually assess the competency of all staff.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 49 June 2013

11.4 Pre-work reviews / monitoring

Before using a telehandler, the operator’s training and experience must be checked to
assess their competency. Training must include adequate familiarisation on the specific
equipment to be used.
Formal certification of training together with entries in the operator’s log book,
countersigned by their supervisor / manager may assist in this assessment. Observation of
a new operator or an operator using new equipment, in a safe location away from other
personnel, may also help those making the competency assessment.
Before commencing any task for the first time the operator together, with other relevant
parties, must receive a safe system of work briefing from the supervisor. Immediately
following this briefing, the operator and others involved should be closely monitored to
ensure they understand and are working to the safe system of work.

11.5 Supervisor responsibilities

As an ongoing process and following significant changes on site or to the task it is the
supervisor’s responsibility to re-brief the operator and others on the task and ensure they
are put to work safely. The supervisor should take this opportunity to;
• Reinforce the key elements of the safe system of work including:-
o Use of designated traffic routes;
o Strict adherence to exclusion zones;
o Travelling and lifting on slopes;
o The correct safe methods when fitting/removing attachments with the quick
hitch;
o Consult the operator and others regarding any issues/comments they have
in adhering to or the effectiveness of the safe system of work, and where
appropriate instigate changes.
• Check that the operator has undertaken the relevant daily checks;
• Check the required maintenance has been undertaken;
• Inspection/maintenance log/check sheet has been completed and signed. The
supervisor’s signature on the check list/log may be used as verification that they
have carried out the check.
As part of the supervisor’s ongoing duties, they must throughout the day monitor that the
safe system of work is being adhered to including, maintenance of exclusion zones, and
that no one is working below the load at any time.
The supervisor should regularly check that the manufacturer’s manual for operating the
telehandler is in the cab, that the next service date by a fitter has not expired and that the
telehandler has a current certificate of thorough examination. The daily check list (See
Annex D) will provide evidence of some of these points.

11.6 Monitoring by the contractor/principal contractor

Where the organisation directly supervising the works is not the main contractor or,
principal contractor, the contractor/principal contractor must undertake suitable monitoring
to enforce the safe use of telehandlers.
This should include, before a task or individual starts on site, the review of:-
• Any safe systems of work before work commences and any subsequent
changes;
• The training and competency of supervisors and operators;
• Reports of thorough examination before the equipment is put to use.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 50 June 2013

The contractor/principal contractor should also monitor the following, which may be done
during normal management site inspections / tours;
• That safe systems of work are being implemented;
• That plant coming onto site is entered into a register to enable the checking and
monitoring to be undertaken;
• That only competent and authorised operators are using the equipment. Random
questioning of the operators and sight of training records may assist in this;
• Random inspection of the cab and records to ensure that daily and weekly
checks and maintenance are being undertaken, and that the manufacturer’s
documentation is in the cab and readily accessible;
• Pre-start task briefings must also be monitored to ensure they are taking place
and are adequate; this may be done by random auditing of records and ad hoc
attendance at briefing talks.
Any unsatisfactory issues found should be recorded and the necessary actions and time
scales for rectification agreed with the organisation directly supervising the works.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 51 June 2013

 Telehandler Safe Use Monitoring Guide
Item to be monitored/ Monitoring / review by
reviewed
Senior management of Site level management Supervisor Operator Contractor / principal contractor
organisation directly of organisation directly
supervising the works supervising the works
Overall Management Reviews and monitors overall Assesses as part of pre order competency
systems for the management system at max 12 check.
planning and monthly intervals or after an
N/A N/A N/A
implementation of the incident or reason to believe
safe use of review is required.
telehandlers.
Management systems Monitors at maximum monthly Reviews at maximum Reviews as part of pre-start on site checks.
at specific site level for intervals by auditing of weekly intervals by site
the planning and documentation and site inspection / observation of
implementation of, the inspection activities and review of N/A N/A
safe use of documentation taking into
telehandlers. account potential changes
to risks.
Equipment selection. May assist in selection Operator advises
process- supervisor if they feel
Observes suitability of equipment is not correct
As Above As Above for task or faulty.
equipment in use and
advises management if
inadequate.
Equipment checks Checks at max weekly Undertake daily and Reviews relevant documentation before
inspection and intervals that operator is weekly checks as safe equipment used on site, i.e. current thorough
maintenance. carrying out daily and system of work / examination.
weekly checks. manufacturers’ Once operations commence, undertakes
As Above As Above recommendations and random sample checks off equipment
records. Advises documentation / inspection/ maintenance
supervisor of any faulty records.
equipment.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 52 June 2013

 Telehandler Safe Use Monitoring Guide
Monitoring / review by
Item to be monitored/ Senior management of Site level management of Supervisor Operator Contractor / principal contractor
reviewed organisation directly organisation directly
supervising the works supervising the works
Safe system of work Monitors at maximum monthly Reviews at maximum May assist in development. - May assist management Reviews before implementation and after
development. intervals by auditing of weekly intervals by site Observes on site suitability in development. any changes
documentation and site inspection / observation of of Safe System of Work as
inspection activities and review of part of normal daily
documentation taking into supervisory role. Stops work
account potential changes if inadequate and advises
to risks. management.
Safe system of work Observes operatives Adheres to safe system of Reviews as ongoing process during site
implementation. working as part of normal work. Advises supervisor tours.
daily supervisory role. Stops of any areas of
As Above As Above
work and takes corrective improvement.
action if not fully
implemented.
Initial task safety Undertaken by Supervisor Carries out random sample checks of
As Above As Above N/A
briefings documentation and attendance at briefing.
Daily task re-briefs. Undertaken by Supervisor Carries out random sample checks by
As Above Ditto N/A
questioning operators.
Manufacturer's Checked weekly by Ensures they are Carries out random sample checks of
instructions and As Above As Above supervisor available in cab. documentation
information in cab
Operator competency Checks made by site May assist in initial checks. Carries out random sample checks of
management and reviewed Monitors via normal daily documentation and observation /
As Above N/A
as above. observation of operator. questioning of operators, or after an
incident
Supervisor Reviews competency at Ongoing process via site tours- adherence
Competency maximum weekly intervals on sit of teams to Safe System of Work,
by site inspection / random checks of maintenance
As Above observation of activities and N/A N/A documentation, reviews of site incidents.
review of documentation

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 53 June 2013

 12.0 Maintenance and Inspection
12.1 General
The effective maintenance of a telehandler is an essential part of safe operation. As with all
machines a telehandler wears, deteriorates and can suffer damage over time. The
maintenance process, including checks and inspections, monitors, prevents and rectifies
this deterioration. It is important that the personnel asked to carry out these tasks have the
necessary machine-specific training, experience and competence in both periodic and
breakdown maintenance.
Both the user and owner of the telehandler, and any attachments used with it, have a
responsibility to ensure that they are maintained in a safe working condition. In practice the
maintenance, other than pre-use checks, is normally undertaken by the telehandler owner.
Telehandlers require the manufacturer’s preventative maintenance instructions to be strictly
complied with, if safety is to be maintained in use. Checks and inspections should be carried
out taking account of the frequency of use of the telehandler and the environmental
conditions in which it regularly works. If the operator is considered to be competent to carry
out routine pre-use and weekly checks, they may be authorised to do so.
The employer of the person carrying out these checks should ensure that the machine is
taken out of use for the period of time required to carry them out. Also, the employer or
authorized person carrying out the checks should ensure that a safe system of work is in
place to prevent personnel from being exposed to risk, for example from the inadvertent
operation of the equipment.
Basic checks and inspections should be carried out in accordance with company
instructions and the manufacturer's recommendations:
• Daily Pre-use Checks - these are carried out at the start of every shift (or day) and
include checks for damage and correct functioning of the telehandler (See list in
Annex F).
• Weekly Inspections - these are additional inspections to the pre-use checks.
These checks and inspections should be recorded
If there is a defect that affects the safe operation of the telehandler it must be reported and
the machine taken out of service immediately. If it does not affect the immediate safe
operation of the telehandler the defect should be reported to the supervisor so that repairs
may be carried out in a timely manner.

12.2 Reporting of Defects

There must be provision for the operator(s) of telehandlers to make written reports of
defects or observations immediately they are identified.
The written report should be to a pre-defined format, (a company pro-forma, a section on
the daily time sheet, etc), which requests details of the defect or observation and supporting
information such as date, time, telehandler identification, circumstances, etc., and must be
reported at least daily. ‘Nil Reports’ must also be submitted at least weekly.
All the defect reports, including the ‘nil reports’, should be forwarded to the telehandler
owner, (or the delegated person), who is in a position to make an informed decision about a
planned response to the report. A copy of the original report should be retained by the
operator.
Once the defect / observation has been responded to and cleared this should then be
recorded with supporting information on the original defect report.
The ‘un-cleared’ and ‘cleared’ reports should be securely lodged within the telehandler
owning company’s maintenance management system and must be made accessible on
demand to the operators of the telehandler as well as other authorised bodies.
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 54 June 2013
12.3 Precautions
Extreme care must be taken when carrying out maintenance procedures on telehandlers.
Maintenance personnel should never stand under a suspended load or raised equipment as
the load or equipment could fall or tip. If work has to be carried out under a raised boom
suitable scotches or supports must be put in place before access is gained.
Care should be taken when working on the hydraulic system to ensure that hydraulic
systems are depressurised. Even with the telehandler's engine switched off the hydraulic
system may still be pressurised, consequently the replacement or repair of hydraulic hoses
or fittings should be approached with extreme caution.

12.4 Modifications
Telehandlers should not be modified without the express written permission of the
telehandler manufacturer. Unauthorised modifications will affect the warranty, invalidate the
CE marking and may compromise safety.

12.5 Scheduled Lubrication

Operators may be required to carry out lubrication of certain items, such as the greasing of
sliding parts, at specified intervals. They should only undertake such tasks if they are
competent to do so and should be provided with the necessary equipment and instructions
to carry this out safely.

12.6 Scheduled Maintenance

It is the responsibility of the site management to ensure that all telehandlers are adequately
maintained in efficient working order and in a state of good repair.
A scheduled preventative maintenance program helps to meet these requirements. The
frequency at which the maintenance activities are carried out must take into account the
machine usage and the working environment. A record of maintenance should be kept for
each telehandler.
Where a telehandler is hired out on the basis that the owner is responsible for carrying out
maintenance, the owner should inform the hirer, at the start of the hire, that their
maintenance staff will require access to the machine at specified intervals. The hirer should
be advised of the frequency and length of time required for maintenance operations.

12.7 Breakdowns
Breakdowns should be minimised by adequate inspection and preparation of the telehandler
prior to delivery on site. Repairs on site should only be undertaken following a thorough job
and site specific risk assessment and the implementation of a safe system of work,
including inspection of the work following completion.

12.8 Maintenance Records

Comprehensive maintenance records are essential to the safe, efficient and economical
operation of telehandler. They provide a complete “cradle to grave” history of the individual
telehandler giving the following benefits:-
• evidence of adequate maintenance as part of the management system;
• establishing breakdown trends over time and providing information for the review of
maintenance frequency;
• identification of component failure trends for feedback to the manufacturer;
• evidence of adequate maintenance to the Enforcing Authorities in the event of an
incident;
• enabling the performance of the telehandler to be reviewed over time to inform future
purchases.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 55 June 2013

12.9 Maintenance Record Format
Maintenance records can be kept in either paper or electronic format. Paper records are
often easier to update as the input will often be in paper format such as inspection reports or
work sheets. Electronic records are however more secure against loss and damage, and
the data is more readily analysed. There are many maintenance record software packages
on the market but care should be taken when considering purchase to ensure that the
system is flexible enough to accommodate changes in types of input and output.

12.10 Replacement Components

Replacement components should be in accordance with the telehandler manufacturer’s
specifications.

12.11 Tyre Maintenance, Repair and Replacement

This section applies to pneumatic tyres only. Foam filled tyres are not user serviceable.

12.11.1 Tyre Pressure Check

• Tyre pressures should be marked on the telehandler chassis adjacent to each
wheel;
• Pressures should be checked daily when the tyres are cold;
• Tyre pressures should be the same for all tyres on the telehandler and should be
within +5% -0% of the manufacturers specified pressure, unless a different tolerance
is specified by the manufacturer;
NOTE: Research undertaken by a major telehandler manufacturer indicates that 5%
reduction in tyre pressure below the manufacturer's specified value, can result in a 30%
reduction in rated capacity at certain points on the load/height/radius curve.
• Tyre pressure gauges should be of known accuracy (within +/- 1%)
• Where a tyre is found to be significantly under pressure, no attempt should be made
to re-inflate it and return the machine to use. It is essential that the cause is
investigated by a competent tyre specialist, as this may well be an indication of
imminent tyre failure.
• Where tyres are frequently found to be under pressure the cause should be
investigated by a competent tyre specialist, as this may well be an indication of
potential tyre failure

12.11.2 Tyre Inflation

The information in this sub-clause applies to tyres fitted on single piece wheels. For tyres
fitted on multi-piece wheels see BITA Publication GN 67 , Multi-Piece Pneumatic Tyred
Wheels - Inspection, Maintenance & Repairs. Where multi-piece wheels are fitted or there is
any doubt about the type of wheel, a competent tyre specialist should be consulted.
• Air should be added, if required, inflating to the pressure specified in the
manufacturer's manual;
• Before starting inflation a personnel exclusion zone of at least 3m around the
machine should be established by the use of barriers, cones etc. (See Figure 22);
• Personnel inflating tyres should stand a minimum of 3 metres away from the tyre
and outside the likely explosion trajectory to avoid injury in the event of a failure.
This will require at least 3m of airline between the nozzle and airline trigger
mechanism (See Figure 22);

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 56 June 2013

 Figure 22 - Tyre Inflation Safe Zones and Exclusion Zones

• Personnel should ensure that they stand on the other side of the telehandler when
inflating (See Figure 22);
• Tyre valves should be checked to ensure that they are not leaking. Valve stem caps
should always be replaced.
Further detailed guidance on the safe inflation of tyres is given in:-
• HSE Publication INDG 433, Safety during tyre inflation in motor vehicle repair

A Real Life Example of Tyre Issues

A telehandler operator had been checking the tyre pressures on his machine. Having
completed the checks, he was walking away from the machine and one of the tyres
exploded. Subsequent investigation revealed that the tyre, which had recently been
replaced, was 14 ply with a 3.5 tonne load, rating rather than the manufacturer's
specification of 16 ply with a 6 tonne rating.
The contractor also found that the tyre had been ordered from their approved supplier by
asking for a tyre for a model XXX telehandler, without any mention of ply or load rating. A
subsequent check of other machines found that 30% were fitted with incorrect tyres.

12.11.3 Tyre Damage

All tyres should be inspected daily as follows:-
• The tread and side walls should be checked for bulges and separation;
• The tread and side walls should be checked for cuts;
When any cut, rip or tear is discovered that exposes sidewall or tread area cords in a
pneumatic tyre, steps should be taken to remove the tyre from service immediately.
Arrangements must be made for replacement of the tyre or tyre and wheel assembly.

12.11.4 Tyre Repairs

It is essential that any tyre repairs are carried out by a competent tyre specialist.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 57 June 2013

12.11.5 Tyre Replacement
Telehandler manufacturers generally list a range of approved tyres in the parts manual for a
specific machine. If not using tyres from this list the replacement tyres must have the
following characteristics:
• Same physical size as the original
• Equal or greater ply and load rating as the original;
• Tyre tread contact width equal or greater than original;
• Equivalent performance specification.
This will normally involve consultation of a competent tyre specialist.
Unless specifically approved by the telehandler manufacturer, foam filled or ballast filled tyre
assemblies must not be replaced with pneumatic tyres.
When a tyre is being replaced, it is essential that the condition of the other tyres on the
machine is assessed by a competent tyre specialist and appropriate action taken. This may
include moving part worn tyres around to ensure that the telehandler is substantially level
when standing on a flat level surface.
If tyres on opposite sides of the telehandler are different sizes the boom will not be vertical
when the machine is standing on level ground. This will cause the combined centre of
gravity of the telehandler and load to move sideways, which may lead to instability.

12.11.6 Wheel Replacement

It is essential that replacement wheels have the same diameter, width and offset
dimensions as the originals.

An Example of Issues with Tyre Specification

Because tyres deflect/distort under load they have a significant effect on telehandler stability and
load carrying capacity.
Although tyres made by different manufacturers may be of the same specification in terms of
nominal size, ply rating and load speed ratings, their deflection, distortion under load and
physical size may vary significantly. When testing one particular 16 ply tyre, a telehandler
manufacturer found that the performance was no better than a 12 ply tyre from a different
manufacturer. Tests have also shown that if telehandler users replace tyres with ones of the
same size and ply rating that are not of the same performance specification, the capacity can be
reduced by up to 30%. This is worse at the limits of the load chart and can potentially result in
the telehandler becoming unstable.

12.12 Actions in the Event of Defects and Breakdowns

All defects that make the telehandler unsafe for use should be recorded and reported
immediately to both the telehandler owner and site’s appropriate representative (such as
service manager, site manager, or supervisor), and the telehandler should be taken out of
service. Steps should be taken to ensure that the telehandler cannot be used before repairs
have been completed. All other defects should be recorded and reported as soon as
possible.
It is essential that repairs or adjustments are only carried out by authorised persons. Once
any defects and breakdowns have been rectified, the person carrying out the work should
sign the defect report to indicate that rectification has taken place.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 58 June 2013

13.0 Thorough Examination
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) require that all
lifting equipment is thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals. In the
case of a telehandler, it should be thoroughly examined as follows:-
• When the telehandler is put into service for the first time (LOLER Reg. 9(1))
NOTE: If the telehandler has not been used before and the EC declaration of conformity was made not
more than 12 months before the telehandler was put into service, the declaration may be used as evidence
of the first through examination.

• At regular intervals of:-

o a period not exceeding 12 months if the telehandler is only used for lifting
goods (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(ii));
o a period not exceeding 6 months if the telehandler is used for lifting persons
(LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(i));
• After any major alteration or damage (event) (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(iv)).
Where periodic thorough examinations are carried out, it is incumbent on the competent
person to set the date of the next thorough examination. This is generally six or twelve
months from the date of the thorough examination, but should be reduced by the
competent person where they judge that the rate of deterioration of the lifting equipment
may lead to a dangerous situation occurring before the next thorough examination, if it
were made at the maximum interval. Examples of this are where a telehandler:-
• Is being used in a corrosive environment such as a petrochemical plant or close to
the sea;
• Is being used more frequently than normal i.e. double shifting;
• Is always lifting loads at or near the rated capacity;
• Has components that are wearing rapidly and require frequent replacement.
Reports of thorough examination should contain the details required by Schedule 1 of
LOLER.
Thorough examinations should be carried out by competent persons who are sufficiently
independent and impartial.

13.1 Thorough Examination of Lifting Accessories and Lifting Attachments

LOLER requires that lifting accessories and lifting attachments are thoroughly examined at
intervals not exceeding six months.

13.2 Responsibility for Thorough Examination

LOLER is very clear that the responsibility for ensuring that the thorough examination of
telehandlers is carried out lies with the user of the telehandler. In the case of a hired-in
telehandler the actual undertaking of thorough examination is often delegated to the
telehandler owner by the user. The user however, retains the legal responsibility for
ensuring that thorough examinations are carried out.
NOTE: The user is the employer carrying out tasks with the telehandler. The telehandler may be from the
user's own fleet or may have been hired from a hire company.

13.3 Further guidance

Further detailed guidance on the thorough examination of telehandlers is given in:-
• BS 7121 Code of practice for safe use of cranes – Part 2: Inspection, testing and
examination.
• L113 Safe Use of Lifting Equipment - Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment
Regulations 1998 Code of Practice - ISBN 0 7176 1628 2.
• Annex G.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 59 June 2013

Annex A – Example Risk Assessment and Method Statement for Non-
suspended Loads
Project: Hogwarts Academy Contractor: Wizard Builders Limited
Task: Lifting of palletised loads Telehandler Make and Model: Spellbound 175
Risk Assessment/ Method Statement Complied By: H Potter Date: 06:01:2011 Rev. A

Risk Assessment
NOTE: This risk assessment has been undertaken on the basis that the telehandler is operated by an operator who has proof of
competence, which should include proof of training (CPCS card or similar), proof of familiarisation on the telehandler to be used
and adequate experience of the task to be undertaken.
Operation Hazard Risk Control Measures to Avoid or Minimise Risk Residual
/Issue Risk
• Public excluded from secure site
• Segregate telehandler and personnel where possible
• Ensure telehandler has adequate vision aids
Struck by:
• If necessary establish effective exclusion zone in conjunction with
• Telehandler boom Principal Contractor
People in area High Low
• Telehandler chassis • All personnel to wear high visibility clothing
• Moving load • Ensure personnel are fully briefed on need to keep clear of load
during lifting and telehandler during travelling
• Ensure telehandler is made secure from unauthorised access or
operation
• Establish presence of voids/underground services with Principal
Contractor
Ground unable to support • Assess ground and establish if there is a requirement for
Med Low
telehandler stabilizer mats
• If required, Supervisor to check that mats supplied match those
Telehandler specified in Method Statement
stability
• Ensure weight of load is known and accurate
Telehandler overloaded High Low
• Telehandler operator to have proof of competence
• Ensure telehandler has been adequately maintained, pre-use
Telehandler failure Med checks carried out and has current report of thorough Low
examination
• Route to be planned and overhead obstacles marked with goal
Load or telehandler posts and signs
structure collides with Med
• Boom to remain as low as practicable at all times
Low
overhead obstacles
• Operator and banksman to be advised of any overhead risks
Load collides with other • Establish effective exclusion zone
plant - cranes, excavators High • Ensure that the safe systems of work for other plant in the vicinity Low
etc address this hazard
Telehandler boom comes • Establish presence or otherwise of overhead lines.
within arcing distance of High • If present arrange for isolation or position telehandler boom/load Low
Movement of overhead lines outside minimum safe approach distance
load
• Inspect load for lose objects prior to lift and secure/remove loose
Loose parts on load may items
High Low
fall
• All personnel to wear hard hats
• Ensure telehandler has been adequately maintained, has current
report of thorough examination and that pre-use checks are
carried out
Load may fall on person High • Inspect load for lose objects prior to lift and secure/remove loose Low
items
• Ensure that as parts of a load are removed from transport that
remaining part of load does not become unstable
Telehandler becomes • Wind speed to be checked with hand held anemometer by
Environmental
unstable when lifting loads High Supervisor before lift starts. Lift to be aborted if wind speed Low
conditions with large wind area. exceeds 15 mph

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 60 June 2013

Method Statement

Item Requirement
1. The supervisor must ensure that the telehandler to be used has been maintained and has a current report of
thorough examination coving both the machine and any attachments.
2. The supervisor must ensure that the operator has proof of competence, which should include proof of training
(CPCS card or similar), proof of familiarisation on the telehandler to be used and adequate experience of the
task to be undertaken.
3. The supervisor must carry out a toolbox take before work starts covering the task to be carried out, personnel
involved, work area, risks, exclusion zones and procedures.
4. At the start of each day or shift the operator should carry out the pre-use checks specified in the
manufacture's operating instructions.
5. Seat belts must be worn at all times.

6. The telehandler's brake engine must be switched off and the applied before the operator leaves the cab.
Before any personnel approach the telehandler to secure loads etc the operator must ensure that the
telehandler is made safe i.e. brake applied and engine switched off.
7. The operator should plan the route and final destination of the load, making sure the route is clear of all
obstacles, that there are no width or height issues with the load or telehandler and that the final destination is
a safe and suitable place for the load. If the route involves travelling or working on slopes, the manufacturer's
operators instructions should be consulted before traversing gradients and cross slopes.
8. Before lifting a load the operator should get out and inspect the load - check for warning signs, centre of
gravity, loose materials on the load or anything anchoring the load.
9. Before lifting the load the operator should check ground conditions to make sure it is suitable for them to drive
and use stabilisers on. Spreader mats should be used if the ground conditions or weight of the load make it
necessary to do so.
10. The operator should then lift the load approximately 150mm (6 inches) and check the load position, weight
and balance.
11. The load should then be secured, strapped down or fastened where necessary.

12. Before setting off, the boom should be telescoped in as far as possible and the load lowered as close to the
ground as possible to increase stability whilst travelling.
13. If the load obscure the operators view when travelling, a banksman should be used. A banksman should also
be used when reversing.
14. Before placing the load in the final position the operators should check the ground conditions (See Item 3).

15. If the operator is unable to clearly see the load's final position, a qualified banksman should be used to signal
to the operator when landing the load.
16. When lifting operation has been completed, the telehandler should be stored in a safe place, on level ground
where possible, with the handbrake engaged, the boom and fork arms / handling attachment lowered to the
ground, the key removed and the cab locked. The key should be stored in safe place and not left in machine.
17. When using extension forks the safe working limit should be reduced as the standard Rated Capacity chart
will not give the correct information as it is only applies to loads on standard length forks. Information on the
rated capacity of extended forks can be found in the manufacturer' operating instructions.
18. If the operator is unsure of any aspect of the lifting operation they must immediately stop and consult their
supervisor

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 61 June 2013

Annex B - Planning of the Lifting of Suspended Loads

All lifting operations should be planned to ensure that they are carried
out safely and that all foreseeable risks have been taken into account.
Poor planning is one of the major causes of accidents arising from
lifting operations.

The siting, setting up and use of a telehandler for lifting suspended loads requires
careful planning if all these activities are to be carried out safely and efficiently. One
person with sufficient training, practical and theoretical knowledge and experience
should be appointed to be responsible for planning and supervising the tasks. This
person is known as the “Competent Person”.
The Competent Person must ensure that the planning for each task includes the
following:-
• Identifying the task to be undertaken;
• Identifying the hazards associated with the task;
• Carrying out a risk assessment;
• Identifying control measures;
• Developing the method to be used;
• Recording the planning in a Method Statement (including any contingency
activities for rescue);
• Communicating the plan to all persons involved;
• Reviewing the plan before the tasks starts and incorporating any changing
circumstances.

B.1. Lift Categories

To enable lifts to be planned, supervised and carried out effectively, three categories
of lift are detailed below. The category into which a particular lift will fall depends on
the assessment of the hazards associated with both the environment in which the lift
is to be carried out and those associated with the load and lifting equipment. As can
be seen from Figure B1, increases in either or both environmental or load complexity
(the “Complexity Index”) will lead to the lift being allocated a higher category. Having
identified the hazards associated with a particular lift, a hierarchy of control measures
should be applied to eliminate or control those hazards.
The case study at B.1.4 shows examples of where the same basic lifting task will fall
into different lift categories depending on differing environmental or load complexities.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 62 June 2013

 Environmental complexity (E)
3 Complex Complex Complex

2 Intermediate Intermediate Complex

1 Basic Intermediate Complex

1 2 3

Load complexity (L)

Figure B1 – Relationship between Complexity Index and Lift Category

B.1.1 Basic lift

For a basic lift the duties of the Competent Person should include the following.
a) Establishing the complexity of the lifting operation, including load and
environmental complexity:-
• Load complexity will include characteristics such as weight, centre of gravity
and presence of suitable lifting points. This can be established by a reliable
source of information, measuring and weighing the load, or calculation;
NOTE: Where the weight of the load cannot be accurately established the notional
weight must be multiplied by an appropriate factor (typically 1.5) to allow for possible
inaccuracies.
• Consideration of environmental hazards at the location of the operation will
include the access and egress required for the telehandler and the suitability of
the ground to take the loads imposed by the telehandler during preparation for
the lift and during the lift itself;
b) Selection of the telehandler, based on the load characteristics, including weight of
the load and any lifting accessories; the maximum height of lift and the maximum
radius required. The rated capacity of the telehandler should be specified by the
manufacturer/installer in the information for use supplied with the telehandler. In
cases where the telehandler has been derated at time of thorough examination,
the rated capacity stated on the current Report of Thorough Examination, issued
by the competent person, should be used. Manufacturer’s sales leaflets and
model classifications marked on the machine should not be relied on for the rated
capacity for a specific telehandler;
c) Ensuring that the telehandler is not operated in wind speeds in excess of those
given in the instruction manual for the telehandler. The wind area of the load
should also be taken into account to ensure that its movement in the wind does
not present a hazard;
d) Ensuring that the telehandler has been thoroughly examined at least within the
previous 12 months (or 6 months for the lifting of persons), inspected and
checked before use. It is essential that the Report of Thorough Examination which
confirms that the equipment is safe to use is available;
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 63 June 2013
 NOTE: The Report of Thorough Examination for the telehandler should be carried with
the vehicle
e) Selecting appropriate lifting accessories, including their method of attachment to
the load, configuration and any protection used to prevent damage;
f) Ensuring that lifting accessories have been thoroughly examined, at least within
the previous 6 months, inspected and checked before use. It is essential that the
Report of Thorough Examination is available to confirm that the lifting accessories
are safe to use;
g) Ensuring that a system for reporting and rectifying defects is in place;
h) Designating a suitable person to check the lifting accessories and any lifting
points that are provided on the load to ensure they are free from any obvious
defect before attaching the load to the telehandler;
i) Ensuring that the outcomes of the planning process are recorded in a risk
assessment and method statement which should be signed by the Competent
Person;
NOTE: In many instances a basic lift may be covered by a generic risk assessment and a
generic method statement provided that no additional hazards are identified on site
j) Selecting and defining the roles of the members of the lifting team. In many
instances it may be possible to combine some of the roles of members of the
lifting team;
k) Briefing all persons involved in the lifting operation to ensure that the safe system
of work described in the method statement is understood. All persons involved in
the lifting operation should be instructed to seek advice from the Competent
Person if any change is required to the lifting operation, or if any doubts about
safety arise. If one or more handlines/taglines are required to give more control of
the load, the Competent Person should designate persons to handle the lines;
l) Checking, if numerous loads are to be lifted over a long period that no changes
are required in the safe system of work;
m) Ensuring that there is a crane supervisor designated to direct personnel and that
the operation is carried out in accordance with the method statement.
The Competent Person and crane supervisor should be aware of the limits of their
knowledge and experience concerning lifting operations, and when conditions exceed
these limits, further advice should be sought.

B.1.2. Intermediate lift

For an intermediate lift the duties of the Competent Person should include the
following, in addition to the duties listed in B.1.1
NOTE: Intermediate lifts were previously called standard lifts in the BS 7121 series, this led to
confusion between basic and standard lifts, hence the change from standard to intermediate.
a) Identifying all significant hazards in the operating area, including any areas
required for access or setting up of the telehandler;
NOTE: This may involve the Competent Person visiting site if there are any concerns
about the detail and quality of the information with which the Competent Person has been
provided;
b) Ensuring that a site/task specific risk assessment and method statement, detailing
control measures for the identified risks, is prepared;
c) Liaison with any other person or authority, as required to overcome any hazard,
by including any necessary corrective action or special measures in the safe
system of work;
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 64 June 2013
d) Determining any requirement for personnel in addition to the telehandler operator,
such as a slinger, signaller or dedicated crane supervisor;
e) Consideration of the effect of the lifting operation on surrounding property or
persons, including the general public. This should lead to arranging for
appropriate action to minimize any adverse effects, and to giving appropriate
notice to all persons concerned.

B.1.3 Complex lift

For a complex lift the duties of the Competent Person should include the following, in
addition to the duties listed in B.1.1 and B.1.2:
a) Identifying all exceptional hazards in the operating area, including any areas
required for access or setting up of the telehandler. This will require the
Competent Person to visit the location of the planned lifting operation as part of
the planning process;
b) Liaison with any other person or authority, as required to overcome any hazard,
by including any necessary corrective action or special measures in the safe
system of work;
c) Ensuring that the method statement includes the exact sequence of operations
when lifting the load;
d) Preparing a sufficiently detailed and dimensioned drawing of the site, telehandler
and the load, identifying the load path, pick up and set down areas, together with
the position of any exceptional hazards in the area. The information provided
should be sufficient to enable the operator to position the telehandler accurately;
It is good practice for the Competent Person to be present on the site during a
complex lift.

B.1.4 Case Study

The case study in Figure B2 illustrates the way in which both the complexity of the
load being lifted and the environment in which the lift is taking place affect the overall
complexity of the lift. The case study takes a typical lifting operation carried out by a
telehandler, the lifting of timber roof trusses. Three different situations are evaluated
with examples of the hazards encountered and the control measures required to
eliminate or reduce those hazards to an acceptable level. It should be noted that this
is an example only and does not identify all the hazards that may be present in a
given circumstance.
B.2. Identifying the task to be undertaken
As the first stage in the planning process, the task to be undertaken should be clearly
identified, together with the location and sequence.
Certain lifting operations require particular care and attention. Further advice can be
found in BS 7121 Part 3. The Competent Person should be familiar with these and
plan the lift accordingly.
B.3. Site surveys
The planning of a lift using a telehandler may involve a site survey, carried out by the
Competent Person or their representative. This involves visiting the location where
the task is to be carried out so that both the task and any hazards involved can be
identified. For simple tasks the remainder of the planning process may be completed
at the same time, whilst for more complicated jobs the person carrying out the survey
may need to complete the process off site. The survey should include assessment of
ground conditions.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 65 June 2013

B.4. Identifying the hazards associated with the task
The hazards associated with the task should be identified. These might be associated
with the location where the work is to be carried out, the nature of the telehandler,
load to be lifted or the people associated with the task or located in the vicinity.

B.5. Carrying out a risk assessment

Having identified the hazards associated with the task, a risk assessment should be
carried out to identify who might be harmed, the chance of them being harmed and
the consequences of any harm. This assessment should be recorded.

B.6. Identifying control measures

Once the risk assessment has highlighted the risks involved in the task, the
procedures and measures required to control them should be identified.

B.7. Developing the method to be used

Having identified the hazards, evaluated the risks and worked out the control
measures required to carry out the task safely; these components should be
developed into a coherent plan. Any contingency measures and rescue procedures
should be included in the plan.

B.8. Selection of telehandler and lifting accessories

When selecting a telehandler for a particular task the following points should be
considered:-
• The weight, dimensions and characteristics of the loader and the loads to be
lifted ;
• The operation, speed, radii, height of lift and areas of movement;
• The number, frequency and types of lifting operation;
• The space available for telehandler access, deployment, operation and
stowage including the space required for correct deployment of stabilizers;
• The control position which will be most suitable for the lifting operation. The
control position should be selected to ensure that the operator has an
adequate view of the load path is adequately protected from crushing hazards;
• The need for motion limiting devices such as slewing arc or height limiters;
• The effect of the operating environment on the telehandler.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 66 June 2013

Figure B2 - Illustrative Telehandler Case Study

Example Activity – Lifting of Timber Roof Trusses with a Telehandler

Trusses being lifted off delivery vehicle and placed on an adjacent set down area
Situation 1 on a secure site with no pedestrian access or other environmental hazards
Environment - 1 Load - 1 Example Hazards Example Control Measures
Lift Categorisation - Basic Overturning of telehandler Accurately assess weight and
or failure through max radius of load
overloading of the Selection of telehandler and lifting
telehandler attachment or accessories
lifting accessory

Overturning of telehandler Assessment of ground conditions

through ground bearing and use of appropriate spreader
failure plates

Lifting Team Planning Requirements

• Competent Person prepares generic RA & MS • Generic Risk Assessment and Method Statement
• Operator takes role of Lift Supervisor, • Onsite review of RA and MS by Lift Supervisor
Slinger/Signaller and Operator

Trusses being lifted off the delivery vehicle and placed directly on to the roof
Situation 2 structure with personnel standing on the roof at height.
Environment - 2 Load - 1 Example Hazards Example Control Measures
Lift Categorisation - Intermediate Overturning of telehandler Accurately assess weight and
or failure through max radius of load
overloading of the Selection of telehandler and lifting
telehandler attachment or accessories
lifting accessory
Overturning of telehandler Assessment of ground conditions
through ground bearing and use of appropriate spreader
failure plates

Crushing or striking of Slinger/signaller situated adjacent

personnel on roof structure to landing area with agreed
system of signalling (radio if line
of sight obscured)
Overhead lines -electric Isolate power lines
shock
Lifting near and over Control path of the load using tag
persons lines

Lifting Team Planning Requirements

• Competent Person prepares task and/or site • Task and/or site specific Risk Assessment and Method
specific RA & MS Statement
• Operator takes role of Lift Supervisor and • Onsite review of RA and MS by the Lift Supervisor
Operator
• Separate Slinger/signaller required on the roof

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 67 June 2013

 Trusses being lifted off the delivery vehicle in a busy suburban street and placed
Situation 3 directly on to the roof structure out of line of site of the operator and with
personnel standing on the roof at height
Environment - 3 Load - 1 Example Hazards Example Control Measures
Overturning of telehandler Accurately assess weight and max
Lift Categorisation - Complex or failure through radius of load
overloading of the Selection of telehandler and lifting
telehandler attachment or accessories
lifting accessory

Overturning of telehandler Assessment of ground conditions

through ground bearing and use of appropriate spreader
failure plates

Crushing or striking of Slinger/signaller situated adjacent

personnel on roof structure to landing area with agreed system
of signalling (radio if line of sight
obscured)
Lifting near and over Control path of the load using tag
persons lines
Injury of members of public Segregation of public from working
in street. area
Collision with passing Implement traffic management plan
traffic

Lifting Team Planning Requirements

• Competent Person prepares site specific RA & • Site specific Risk Assessment and Method Statement
MS • Onsite review of RA and MS by the Lift Supervisor
• Separate Lift Supervisor oversees lifting
• Traffic management scheme
operation
• Operator takes role of Operator only
• Separate Slinger/signaller required on roof
• Temporary traffic management operative (if
required)

B.9. Recording the planning in a Method Statement

Once the plan has been developed it should be recorded in a Method Statement. The
length and detail of this document depends on the complexity of the task to be
undertaken and on the risks involved. A simple low risk job such as a routine delivery
and unloading of bulk materials or blocks to site might only require the use of a brief
generic method statement, whilst a more complex and high risk job such delivering,
unloading, and assembling and lifting into position of a loading platform on a
construction site would require a more detailed job specific method statement. The
method statement covering all planned lifting on a site is often referred to as the “lift
plan”. The method statement should include a “lifting schedule” listing each type of
item to be lifted together with the following information:

• Item description;
• Weight;
• Dimensions;
• Lifting points/method;
• Type of lifting accessories to be used and configuration;
• Pick up and landing locations referenced to the site plan.
Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 68 June 2013
An example of a lifting schedule is shown in Annex D and an example of a method
statement in Annex B.

B.10. Communicating the plan to all persons involved

One of the most important aspects of successful planning is to ensure that the
contents of the plan are communicated effectively to and between all parties involved,
taking account of language differences. Arrangements should be made to ensure that
copies of any method statements are given to the appropriate people and that others
involved in the job are fully briefed. Similarly any changes to the plan should be
communicated to all parties.

B.11. Reviewing the plan before the job starts

Immediately before a job starts, the risk assessment and method should be reviewed
to check if any aspect of the job has changed and the effect that these changes could
have on the safety of the operation. If any modifications to the plan are required these
should be communicated to all those involved. The Competent Person should amend
the method statement (lift plan) and initial any significant changes.

B.12. Further guidance

Further guidance on planning of lifting and installation is given in:

• BS 7121 Code of practice for safe use of cranes – Part 1 General and Part 3
Mobile Cranes;
• L113 Safe Use of Lifting Equipment - Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment
Regulations 1998 Code of Practice - ISBN 0 7176 1628 2;
• HSE Leaflet INDG218 – Guide to Risk Assessment;
• HSE Leaflet INDG163 – Five Steps to Risk Assessment.
• CIRIA publication C703 - Crane Stability on Site.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 69 June 2013

 Annex C – Example of a Risk Assessment and Method
Statement for Lifting Suspended Loads with a Telehandler

1. Task to be Undertaken (Example only)

Lifting of steelwork for installation on Building M6 between gridlines Ck and Cm, to be
carried out by Steel-up-Quick Ltd.

2. Basic Information (Example only)

Customer MegaCity Retail Ltd

Site Building M6, Stratford, SE6 5PQ
Customer
Contact Andy Builder
Details
Contact Number 07234 56789
Date of Lifting Operation 02.04.10
Load Prefabricated steel column sections
Weight of load 728kg

Load Load dimensions 3.4 long x 0.305 wide x 0.305 high

Information Lifting point Hole in end of web for shackle
Maximum radius of lift 5.8 m
Maximum height of lift 6.8m (top of upper column)
Telehandler make Merlo

Telehandler Telehandler model P38.14 + P38.14 Plus

Information Stabilizer configuration Front (2.42m extension)
Maximum stabilizer load 5.8 tonne
Access to lift area Metalled site road
Ground conditions Firm clay – Can moulded by strong finger
pressure
Voids underground None - Based on information from Principal
Site Contractor
Conditions
Underground services None - Based on information from Principal
Contractor
Public interface None – Secured construction site
Overhead lines None observed during site visit

3. Identification of Hazards (Example only)

a. People in area struck by:
• Telehandler boom
• Telehandler chassis
• Moving load
b. Telehandler stability:
• Ground unable to support telehandler
• Telehandler overloaded
• Telehandler failure

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 70 June 2013

 c. Movement of load:
• Load collides with structure
• Load collides with other plant - cranes, excavators etc
• Load/telehandler boom comes within arcing distance of overhead lines
• Persons hand crushed/trapped by load
d. Suspended load:
• Load may fall on person
• Loose parts on load may fall
e. Working at Height:
• Person falling from height when attaching or removing slings from load
f. Environmental conditions:
• High wind causes load to collide with fixed object
• Telehandler becomes unstable

4. Risk Assessment (Example Only)

Operation/Issue Hazard Risk Control Measures to Avoid or Minimise Residual
Risk Risk
Struck by: • Public excluded from secure site
• Telehandler • Establish effective exclusion zone in
boom conjunction with Principal Contractor
Low
People in area • Telehandler High • All personnel to wear high visibility clothing
chassis • Ensure lifting team are fully briefed on need
• Moving load to keep clear of load during lifting and
telehandler during travelling
Ground unable to • Establish presence of voids/underground
support services with Principal Contractor
telehandler • Assess ground and establish if there is a
Med requirement for stabilizer mats Low
• If required, Crane Supervisor to check that
mats supplied match those specified in
Telehandler Method Statement
stability
Telehandler • Ensure weight of load is known and accurate
overloaded Low
High • Telehandler operator to have valid CPCS
card
Telehandler • Ensure telehandler has been adequately
failure Med maintained and has current report of Low
thorough examination.
Load collides with • Tag line to be attached to load to control Low
Med
structure rotation
Load collides with • Establish effective exclusion zone in
other plant - conjunction with Principal Contractor Low
High
cranes,
Movement of load excavators etc
Telehandler boom • Establish presence or otherwise of overhead
comes within lines.
arcing distance of Low
High • If present arrange for isolation or position
overhead lines telehandler boom/load outside minimum safe
approach distance

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 71 June 2013

Operation/Issue Hazard Risk Control Measures to Avoid or Minimise Residual
Risk Risk
Persons hand • Tag line to be used
crushed/trapped • Gloves to be worn
by load Med Low
• All slinging to be completed by
Slinger/Signaller with valid CPCS card
Load may fall on • Ensure telehandler has been adequately
person maintained, has current report of thorough
examination and that pre-use checks are
carried out.
Low
High • Ensure lifting accessories with adequate
capacity have been selected, that they are
Suspended load adequately maintained, have current report
of thorough examination and that pre-use
checks are carried out.
Loose parts on • Inspect load for loose objects prior to lift and
load may fall High secure/remove loose items. Low
• All personnel to wear hard hats.
Person falling • Delivery vehicle to be provided with ladder
from height when for access/egress.
attaching or Low
Working at Height High • Access to steelwork and fall protection
removing slings arrangements as steelwork installation
from load Method Statement.
High wind causes
load to collide Low
with fixed object High Wind speed to be checked with hand held
Environmental anemometer by Crane Supervisor before lift
conditions starts. Lift to be aborted if wind speed exceeds
Telehandler 20mph.
becomes High Low
unstable

5. Category of Lift (Example only)

Load Complexity 1

Environmental Complexity 2

Lift Category Intermediate

6. Lifting Team (Example only)

Role Name CPCS Card No. Mobile Phone

Competent Person Keith Carter 123 456 07234 56789
Crane Supervisor Dwayne Joseph 123 457 07234 56788

Telehandler Graham Dillaway 123 458 07234 56787

Operator
Slinger/signaller Dwayne Joseph 123 457 N/A

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 72 June 2013

7. Equipment (Example only)

Equipment Specification Maintenance TE Report

Records
Telehandler Merlo P38.14 + P38.14 Current and with Current and with
Plus, fitted with lifting hook machine machine
attachment. See Fig 1.
Rated Capacity 1500kg @
5.8m radius and 9.8m
height
Lifting Accessories 1 No 1.5m long single leg Current and on site Current and on site
8mm chain sling WLL
2000kg
4 No small bow shackle. Current and on site Current and on site
WLL 3 tonne
Stabilizer Not required
N/A N/A
Spreaders
Tagline 10mm diameter
Pre use check N/A
Polypropylene Rope
Short Access Youngman Lorry Ladder Current and with
N/A
Ladder delivery vehicle

8. Procedure (Example only)

a. Competent person must ensure that Principal Contractor and Crane Supervisor
are in possession of latest revision of Method Statement. If Competent Person
is not attending site for the lifting operation they must brief the Crane
Supervisor;
b. Arrive on site and liaise with Principal Contractor;
c. Inspect lifting area to ensure that nothing has changed since last site visit;
d. Competent Person to brief Lifting Team on contents of Method Statement.
Crane Supervisor, Operator and Slinger/Signaller to sign Method Statement to
acknowledge receipt and understanding of briefing. If Competent Person not on
site, briefing to be undertaken by Crane Supervisor;
e. Establish exclusion zone in conjunction with Principal Contractor to exclude both
personnel, other cranes and overhead plant;
f. Remove forks and install lifting hook to fork carriage;
g. Position telehandler as shown on attached Drawing No. SC-GBA-M6-00-TE-W-
00001;
h. Attach single leg chain sling to telehandler hook
i. Carry out “dry run” to ensure that telehandler hook can reach required height
and radius;
j. Travel telehandler to delivery vehicle;
k. Attach shackle to first column;
l. Attach sling to telehandler lifting hook and load;

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 73 June 2013

 m. Ensure all personnel are clear of the load;
n. Lift load from delivery vehicle;
o. Ensure all personnel are clear of the telehandler and the suspended load;
p. Transport to set up position ensuring that load is kept just clear of ground at
minimum radius.
q. Position telehandler as shown on attached Drawing No. SC-GBA-M6-00-TE-W-
00001 and deploy stabilisers;
r. Attach tag line to load;
s. Ensure all personnel are clear of load;
t. Lift load to position and lower under direction of Slinger/Signaller, controlling
load swing with tag line;
u. Steel erectors to install column and release sling;
v. Retract boom;
w. Repeat for further three columns;
x. Steel erectors to recover shackles;
y. Remove exclusion zone in conjunction with Principal Contractor.

9. Revision Status and Distribution of Method Statement (Example only)

Issue Date 01.02.10

Revision Rev 2
Competent Person Keith Carter
Distribution Crane Supervisor Dwayne Joseph
Site Representative Andy Builder

10. Signatures (Example only)

Competent Person I have prepared this method statement and authorise the Lifting K Carter
Team to proceed with the lifting operation in compliance with this
document. Any changes to the specified procedure must be
approved by me before the lifting operation begins

Crane Supervisor I have been briefed on this Method Statement by the Competent D Joseph
Person. I have checked that the lifting plan reflects the situation on
site and the details are correct. I have briefed the contents of the
Method Statement to the other members of the Lifting Team

Slinger/Signaller I have been briefed on and understand the Method Statement for D Joseph
this lifting operation.

Telehandler I have been briefed on and understand the Method Statement for G Dillaway
this lifting operation.
Operator
Site Representative I confirm that I have been briefed on and understand the Method A Builder
Statement for this lifting operation. I also confirm that the ground on
which the Telehandler will stand can accept the stabilizer loads
provided to me by Steel-up-Quick.

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 74 June 2013

 Rated Capacity Charts - On Stabilisers and on Tyres

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 75 June 2013

 Figure C1 - Lifting Hook

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 76 June 2013

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 77 June 2013
Annex D – Example of a Lifting Schedule

Lifting Schedule
Site Employing Competent Contact 123 456
Canal Street, Bury BBH Construction C Crane
Location Organisation Person Telephone No 7890

Lift Lifting Accessories

Item to be Item Picked Transported Max Lift Max Lift
Category Comments
Lifted Weight From To Radius Height
Type SWL Weight

Crofters Brick Use net to

Pack 1400 kg Compound Grid A12 5.5 m 12 m Basic Forks 2000 kg 180 kg prevent falling
(500 pack) objects

Durox Use net to

Superbloc 125 1100 kg Compound Grid B20 5m 14 m Basic Forks 2000 kg 180 kg prevent falling
(100 pack) objects

Roof Truss Delivery Violet web sling

K480 (5 pack) 500 kg Compound 6m 8m Basic 2m long with 1400 kg 4 kg Crane jib
Vehicle
choker hooks

Roof Truss Crane jib +

Violet web sling
K480 (Single) 500 kg Compound Grid D10 10 m 10 m Intermediate 1400 kg 4 kg Separate
2m long with
slinger/signaller
choker hooks
required on roof

Floor Beams Delivery

800 kg Compound 4m 8m Basic Forks 2000 kg 180 kg Exclusion zone
4m (10 pack) Vehicle

Finishing Use net to

Plaster 300 kg Compound Grid A6 6m 14 m Basic Forks 2000 kg 180 kg prevent falling
(10 bag pack) objects

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 78 June 2013

 Annex E – Example of a Checklist for Familiarisation

Telehandler Familiarisation Handover Checklist No.

Issuing Depot: Date:

Handover By: Fleet No.

Machine Type:

Customer:

Operation of controls  Fluid levels 

Gear Selection Fuel

Forward and reverse selection Hydraulic oil

Steering mode selector Engine oil

Boom reach raised Batteries

Boom reach lowered Transmission/powertrain

Boom reach out Coolant

Boom reach in Screen wash reservoir

Carriage tilt Brake system reservoir

Stabiliser legs Documentation/equipment

Chassis levelling operation Manufacturer’s operating manual

LLMI/LLMC unit test Load charts

Brake pedal Thorough examination certificate

Horn Operator’s record book

Wiper EC conformity certificate

Lights Grease gun/tyre pressure gauge

Third service control Comments

Stop button

Engine isolation switch and key

Handbrake

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have been familiarised with the above controls and checks.

Name (print) Signature

Company Date

NOTE: Familiarisation is also required for telehandler attachments

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 79 June 2013

 Annex F – Example of a Daily (pre-use) Check List
Operator’s Telehandler Pre-Use Check Sheet

Operator’s Name: Date:

Telehandler Make: Model:
Motive Power: Attachments:
Operator’s Signature:

Item OK N/A Defect Reported

( ) ( )
Visual Pre - start Check or "walk-around."

Verify location of handbook and confirm machine has a

1. current report of Thorough Examination

2. General condition and cleanliness, including cab

Evidence of any oil leaks (include hydraulic cylinders,

3. fittings, valves and wheel hubs)
Fork carriage, (deformed arms, back rest damage,
4. distortion)
Attachments, (completeness, damage, decals, rated
5. capacity, fastenings)

6. Quick hitch fittings (if applicable)

7. Pin security

Wheels (bent rims and nut security) & tyres (worn tread,
8. cuts and damage to side walls and tread)

9. Tyre pressure (check using gauge)

10. Hydraulic hose and pipe condition and security

11. Cab condition, ROPS/FOPS mounting

12. Cab windows, including roof section, to be clean.

13. Cracked/unauthorised welding

14. Guards, cowlings and fasteners

15. Decals/labels, including manufacturer's rating plate

16. Fire extinguisher (in-date, charged?)

17. Manufacturer safety bars

18. Mirrors / CCTV

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 80 June 2013

Physical Check of lubricants etc, (wearing gloves)

19. Engine oil

20. Transmission oil

21. Coolant

22. Batteries

23. Brake fluid

24. Hydraulic oil

25. Air filter indicator

26. Fan belt deflection

27. Fuel

28. Visual check of all engine components

Running Checks

29. All controls for correct function

All gauges and instruments including horn and

30.
hour meter

31. All lights/indicators including beacon

32. Heater, defroster and wipers for correct function

33. Verify seat position and seat belt function

34. Any unusual noises

35. Service brakes

36. Verify all steering modes

Stabilisers/outriggers/chassis tilt/360 rotation. (as

37.
appropriate)

38. Parking brake test

39. Load charts

40. LLMI

41. LLMC (if fitted)

42 All warning devices must be operational

NOTE: All pre-use checks must be carried out in accordance with the specific instructions published in the
relevant manufacturer’s operating handbook

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 81 June 2013

Criteria Statement for use with Pre-use Check Sheet
Item Criteria
Fork arms (or Visual checks on fork arms (or other attachment) to ensure that they are undamaged, not distorted and
attachment) are securely attached to the carriage plate.
Carriage-plate (including A visual check on the carriage plate to ensure that it is in good condition, not distorted and that any
Quick-hitch) quick-hitch fittings are in good condition and correctly latched.
Telescopic boom A visual check to ensure that there is no obvious damage or distortion, that all warning decals are clear
and in place and, where there are visible hydraulic hoses and pipes, that they are undamaged and free
to track the boom. A working check might come later.
Hydraulics (pipes, union, A visual check on all other hydraulic pipes, unions and hoses to ensure that there is no damage,
hoses) leakage or distortion likely to lead to breaks, etc. where visible, a check on hydraulic rams to ensure
that there is no rust or scoring likely to lead to leakage past seals, etc.
Wheels & tyres A visual check to ensure that all wheel nuts are present without signs of “working”, that there is no
leakage from hubs, that no foreign bodies have become trapped in the wheel mechanism, that types
are in good condition with no chunking, splits or signs of apparent structural breakdown. This could
include a periodic check on tyre pressures.
External condition This would be a general walk around to note any surface damage, light lenses damaged, mirrors in
(including mirrors) place and adjusted, decals clearly displayed, etc. Also included would be any moveable panel being
secured
CCTV equipment If the machine is fitted with CCTV, is it in position, undamaged and clean. A working check might come
later.
Cab & cab doors / An inspection of all cab windows and door for cleanliness and any evidence of damage, cab door lock
windows effective and secure, and with particular attention on the window alongside the main boom to be in
position, secure, clean and undamaged.
Operating cab This check is about the floor of the cab and the access to it including mounting steps, rubber mats,
exclusion bellows, etc, and clearing any rubbish, mud, stones, paper, refreshment refuse, etc that could
block the full operation of any of the controls.
Operator’s seat & This is a check on the seat itself, its condition and adjustability, and any presence microswitch control
restraint that might be installed. Also included would be the condition of the restraint system and its fastenings,
as necessary including the inertia lock.
Rated Capacity Once in the seat, the operator can check the load charts and rated capacity information for condition,
Plate/Load Charts content and clarity.
Starting procedure The operator can then insert the key and start the start-up procedure, making sure that the machine will
start correctly.
Warning lights and Once started up, the operator can then check warning lights, hour meters, instruments for correct
instruments operation and any fault codes being shown.
Lights & beacons A round check of all lights and beacons for operation.
Audible warnings A round check of all audible warning systems.
Hydraulic controls The operator should operate all hydraulic controls over their full range, noting any obvious defects,
rough operation, ability to reach full extension, which will (a) show that the system is fully operational
and (b) lubricate the whole system. Any evidence of rubbing, scoring, leakage or other damage should
be recorded.
Load Moment The operation of the longitudinal load moment indicator or control can be checked during the above
Indicator/Control process.
Axle weight sensors The operation of any load sensors on the rear axle could also be checked at the same time.
Stabilisers (if applicable) Where stabilisers are fitted, they should be checked to ensure that feet are not distorted or missing, that
they are secure and correctly stowed. It may also be possible to ensure that rams are in good condition
and that hydraulic seals are not leaking. A full working check should be performed.
Slew turntable (if If fitted, the slewing operation can be checked to ensure that it is fully operational and that there are no
applicable) obvious defects.
Drive & braking (All The operator should check all brake systems in both travel directions and that drive is satisfactorily
systems) delivered in all modes.
Steering (All modes) Finally, the steering should be operated, while the machine is moving in both directions, over its full
steering lock in all modes (i.e. front-wheel, four-wheel and crab-steer).

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 82 June 2013

Annex G – Key Points for Telehandler Operators

• You have personal and legal responsibility to use all telehandlers safely. Serious misuse of
telehandlers may well be treated as gross misconduct which could well lead to dismissal or
individual prosecution;
• If it is not safe to start work - Inform your supervisor;
• If it is not safe to carry on working - Stop and inform your supervisor;
• Always follow the telehandler or attachment manufacturer’s instructions.

1.0 Before Starting

1.1 Ensure that you are trained and authorised to operate telehandlers and have been familiarised
with the specific make and model of telehandler you are to operate, including driving on the
public highway (if applicable);
1.2 Verify with your supervisor that the telehandler has a current thorough examination report and
has been suitably maintained;
1.3 Always carry out daily checks, including safety devices, before starting your shift;
1.4 Report all defects to your supervisor;
1.5 Ensure you have been briefed by your supervisor on the task, hazards, control measures
(including designated exclusion zones) and site conditions that may affect the safe operation of
the telehandler;
1.6 Ensure that you are comfortable with carrying out the task;
1.7 Ensure you have had authorisation from your supervisor to carry out the task;
1.8 If it is not safe to start work - Inform your supervisor.

2.0 During Use

2.1 Ensure that you understand the telehandler’s limitations on the rating plate and load charts.
Never overload the telehandler;

2.2 Know your site – be aware of slopes, ground conditions, visibility, pedestrians and other
potential hazards that may affect the safe operation of the telehandler;
2.3 Wear your seat belt at all times to reduce the risk of injury should the telehandler overturn. It
could save your life!
2.4 Ensure you are familiar with using and changing any attachments you use. You must
understand the attachment’s effect on the telehandler’s actual capacity and the need for any
derating;
2.5 Ensure you comply with the legal requirements for driving your telehandler on the public
highway;
2.6 If it is not safe to carry on working - Stop and inform your supervisor.

3.0 After Use

3.1 When leaving the telehandler cab, park on level ground, lower the boom/attachments, apply
the parking brake, leave the transmission in neutral, switch off and take the ignition keys out;
3.2 Get in and out of the cab safely.
NOTE: Further detailed guidance on the safe use of telehandlers can be downloaded free of charge from the
Construction Plant–hire Association’s website at www.cpa.uk.net
NOTE: These key points for Supervisors should be read with the corresponding key points for telehandler
Operators

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 83 June 2013

Annex H - Key Points for Supervisors of Telehandler Operators

• You have personal and legal responsibility to ensure that all telehandlers are used safely.
Serious misuse of telehandlers may well be treated as gross misconduct which could well
lead to dismissal or individual prosecution;
• Ensure that the operator knows that if it is not safe to start work - They must inform you;
• Ensure that the operator knows that if it is not safe to carry on working - They must stop
and inform you;
• Ensure that the telehandler or attachment manufacturer’s instructions are always followed.

1.0 Before Starting

1.1 Ensure that the telehandler has a current thorough examination report and has been suitably
maintained;
1.2 Ensure that the operator is trained to operate telehandlers and has been familiarised with the
specific make and model of telehandler they are to operate, including driving on the public
highway (if applicable);
1.3 Confirm that daily checks, including safety devices, are carried out before the start of each shift
and that all defects are recorded and rectified;
1.4 Assess site conditions and check that there is adequate segregation of pedestrians and
plant/vehicles in place;
1.5 Ensure you have briefed the operator on the task, hazards, control measures and site
conditions that may affect the safe operation of the telehandler;
1.6 Confirm that the operator is comfortable with carrying out the task;

1.7 Ensure you have authorised the operator to carry out the task.

2.0 During Use

2.1 Confirm that the operator understands the telehandler’s limitations on the rating plate and load
charts, and that they should never overload the telehandler;
2.2 Ensure that the operator is familiar with the site and that they are aware of slopes, ground
conditions, visibility, pedestrians and other potential hazards that may affect the safe operation
of the telehandler;
2.3 Carry out regular spot checks on telehandlers working on site to monitor for safe working
practices;
2.4 Check that the operator wears the seat belt to reduce the risk of injury should the telehandler
overturn. It could save their life!
2.5 Confirm that the operator is familiar with using and changing any attachments;
2.6 Ensure that where the telehandler is driven on the public highway, all legal requirements are
met.
3.0 After Use
3.1 Check that when leaving the telehandler cab the operator - parks on level ground, lowers the
boom/attachments, applies the parking brake, leaves the transmission in neutral, switches off
and takes the ignition keys out.
NOTE: Further detailed guidance on the safe use of telehandlers can be downloaded free of charge from the
Construction Plant–hire Association’s website at www.cpa.uk.net
NOTE: These key points for Supervisors should be read with the corresponding key points for telehandler
Operators

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 84 June 2013

Annex I - Further Information and Guidance
Legislation
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. London: The Stationery Office.
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
L22 Safe use of work equipment, HSE Books
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
L113 Safe use of lifting equipment, HSE Books
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 as amended
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
Work at Height Regulations 2005
The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995
The Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) Regulations 2002

Standards
BS 6166-3:1998, Lifting slings — Part 3: Guide to the selection and safe use of lifting slings
for multi-purposes
BS 6210:1983, Code of practice for the safe use of wire rope slings for general lifting
purposes
BS 6968:1988, Guide for use and maintenance of non-calibrated round steel lifting chain
and chain slings
BS 7121-1:2006, Code of practice for safe use of cranes — Part 1: General
BS 7121-2:2012, Code of practice for safe use of cranes — Part 2: Inspection, testing and
examination
BS 7121-3:2003, Code of practice for safe use of cranes — Part 3: Mobile cranes
BS 8460:2005, Code of practice for the safe use of MEWPs
BS EN 1459:1998 + A2:2010, Safety of industrial trucks. Self propelled variable reach
trucks
BS EN 15000:2008, Safety of industrial trucks — Self propelled variable reach trucks —
Specification, performance and test requirements for longitudinal load moment indicators
and longitudinal load moment limiters

Other Publications
HSE Leaflet INDG218 – Guide to Risk Assessment
HSE Leaflet INDG163 – Five Steps to Risk Assessment
HSE Leaflet INDG433 - Safety during tyre inflation in motor vehicle repair
HSE Publication L73 - A guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous
Occurrences Regulations 1995, Fourth edition 2012, HSE Books
HSE (L117) Rider operator lift trucks: Operations training and safe use Approved Code of
Practice and guidance, Third edition 2013, HSE Books
HSE Publication HS(G)6 - Safety in Working with Lift Trucks 2000, HSE Books

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 85 June 2013

HSE Publication HSG 144 - The safe use of vehicles on construction sites 2009, HSE
Books
HSE Publication GS6 - Avoidance of Danger from Overhead Electric Power Lines, Fourth
edition 2013, HSE Books
HSE Construction Information Sheet No. 58 - The selection and management of mobile
elevating work platforms, HSE Books
HSE Information Sheet MISC 614 - Preventing falls from boom type mobile elevating work
platforms, HSE Books
HSE Sector Information Minute No. 05/2010/03 - Visibility for operators of telehandlers
(variable reach trucks)
HSE Operational Circular OC 803/70 - Closed Circuit TV on Road Going Vehicles
Department for Transport Information Sheet - Works Trucks: A brief guide, DfT website
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency INF52 - Information for drivers of large vehicles
Operator's safety code for rough terrain trucks, British Industrial Truck Association
Do's & don'ts for users of industrial and rough terrain lift trucks, British Industrial Truck
Association
Stability Awareness for powered industrial rough terrain lift trucks, British Industrial Truck
Association
Safe Use of Quick Hitches on Excavators - Best Practice Guide. Strategic Forum for
Construction - Plant Safety Group
Medical Fitness to Operate Construction Plant - Best Practice Guide. Strategic Forum for
Construction - Plant Safety Group
Code of practice for the safe use of lifting equipment. Lifting Equipment Engineers’
Association
Maintenance, Inspection and Thorough Examination of Mobile Cranes - Best Practice
Guide. Construction Plant-hire Association
Quality Assurance Procedural Code to be used when carrying out thorough examinations
on industrial trucks to GN28, Consolidated Fork Truck Services Ltd
Voluntary Code of Practice for Plant and Equipment Operator Training, Off-highway Plant
and Equipment Research Centre
A Practical Guide to Enhancing the All-round Awareness of Plant Operators, Off-highway
Plant and Equipment Research Centre
CECE guidance on the classification of attachments to construction equipment for the
machinery directive 2006/42/EC, Committee for European Construction Equipment

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 86 June 2013

BITA Guidance Notes
GN28 Thorough examination & safety inspections of industrial lift trucks
GN29 Truck control levers
GN40 Handling of single suspended loads by rider controlled counterbalanced & reach trucks
GN44 Rough terrain high lift telescopic handlers training guidance
GN49 Engineers working at heights
GN50 Tyre tread wear
GN54 Specification for longitudinal load moment indicators for variable reach trucks
GN55 Compliance with the machinery directive and application of the CE Mark
GN57 Industrial trucks on public roads
GN60 Operator restraint + HSE information sheet ‘Fitting & use of restraining systems on lift
trucks.’
GN61 Planning & Management of Construction Sites for the Safe Use of Rough Terrain
Telescopic Handlers
GN62 Maintenance, inspection & repair of fork arms & attachments
GN65 Overhead Guard (FOPs) Damage
GN67 Multi-Piece Pneumatic Tyred Wheels - Inspection, Maintenance & Repairs

NOTE: These Guidance Notes are provided free to BITA members and may be purchased by
non-members from the BITA Store at http://www.bita.org.uk/bitacart.aspx

Useful Websites

British Industrial Truck Association www.bita.org.uk

Construction Plant-hire Association www.cpa.uk.net

CITB www.citb.co.uk

Health and Safety Executive www.hse.gov.uk

Home Builders Federation www.hbf.co.uk

Lifting Equipment Engineers Association www.leea.co.uk

Off-highway Plant and Equipment

www.operc.com
Research Centre

Safety Assessment Federation www.safed.co.uk

Strategic Forum for Construction www.strategicforum.org.uk

UK Contractors Group www.ukcg.org.uk

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 87 June 2013

Annex J - Topic Index

Topic Section Topic Section

Attachments 3.10, 5.3, 6.2 Stability 1.8.1, 4.1, 4.2
10.8 10.7.1
Competent person 3.1, 8.2.1 Supervisors 1.6, 8.2.2

Communications 3.8 Supervision 10.2, 11.5

Definitions 2.0 Telehandler principles 1.2, 4.0
Familiarisation 1.7, 9.0, Telehandler types 1.3, 5.0
Annex E Thorough examination 1.1, 13.0
Inclines, slopes and 10.5 Traffic Management 10.4.1
gradients
Information 1.5, 7.0 Training 8.3, 8.4
Annex G Tyres 4.2, 12.11
Inspection 1.10, 7.0, 12.1 Visibility 1.8.2, 4.6, 4.7,
12.2 ,12.8, 10.3
12.9
Works truck 10.4.5
Lifting of persons 3.10, 10.10 Weight of the load 10.6
Load stability 10.7.2
Loading and unloading 10.7
LLMI and LLMC 4.3
Method statement 3.7, Annex A
Annex B,
Annex C
Maintenance 1.10, 12.1,
12.6
12.8, 12.9
Operators 1.6, 8.2.3
Planning 1.1, 3.0
Pre-use checks 12.1, 12.2
Annex F
Public road operation 10.4.4
Quick hitches 5.4
Review and monitoring 1.9, 11.0
Risk assessment 3.4, Annex A
Annex B,
Annex C
Safe Use 1.8, 10.0
Selection 1.4, 6.0
Site Conditions 10.4
Site housekeeping 10.4.2

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 88 June 2013

Annex K - Working Group Membership
Strategic Forum for Construction Plant Safety Group –
Safe Use of Telehandlers – Good Practice Guide Working Group

Member Employer Representing

K Minton - Chairman CPA SFfC Plant Safety Group
W Bennell Merlo UK BITA
J Bohm HSE HSE
B Bolton HSE HSE
P Brown CITB CITB
R Cameron Sir Robert McAlpine UKCG
R Carter PowerPlant HAE
T Cope UK Forks CPA
G Fisher QGM Select Plant CPA
P Fisher Costain UKCG
P Grant Merlo UK BITA
J Hallows CITB CITB
R Harper A Plant CPA
T Head Select Plant CPA
R Hine British Industrial Truck Association BITA
V Hutson JCB BITA
A McIntyre JLG Industries BITA
J McKenna Hewden CPA
M Mildwater Hiremee Rail Plant Association
M Norton BEM Norton Training and Testing Norton Training and Testing
M O’Connor HSE HSE
P Owens Hewden CPA
N Sheppard Hewden CPA
P Stone Liebherr CPA
S Vickers Hewlett Construction Limited Hewlett Construction Limited
I Watson Bovis Lend Lease UKCG
C Wood CPA SFfC Plant Safety Group
P Wilson UCATT UCATT
T P Watson - Editor CPA SFfC Plant Safety Group

Reference No. CPA 1101

First Published: February 2011
Revised: June 2013
Published by:
Construction Plant-hire Association
27/28 Newbury St
London
EC1A 7HU
Telephone: 020 7796 3366 Working in Partnership
Email: enquiries@cpa.uk.net
© CPA Copyright – 2011 & 2013

Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction 89 June 2013