Telehandler Safety

Key Hazards

• Tip-over from excessive load, boom extension, slope, or poor ground
• Workers struck by the machine, load, forks, or boom
• Loads falling from forks or attachments
• Contact with overhead power lines
• Pedestrians entering blind spots and swing areas
• Use of unapproved attachments or personnel platforms

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Telehandler Safety requires workers to recognize the task-specific hazards before work begins and to use the controls established for the project.

The operator should inspect the telehandler and review the load weight, load center, attachment, load chart, boom angle and extension, travel route, ground conditions, overhead hazards, and landing location before moving the load.

Only trained and authorized operators should use the machine, seat belts should be worn, and controls, tires, forks, carriage, boom, attachments, alarms, and safety devices should be checked before operation.

The correct load chart for the installed attachment and configuration should be used, with loads kept within capacity and secured against sliding, tipping, or falling.

The boom and load should be carried low during travel, speed should match conditions, and turns, slopes, soft ground, excavations, and uneven surfaces should be approached conservatively.

Pedestrians should be separated from the travel path and landing area, with spotters used where visibility is restricted or loads block the operator's view.

Required clearance from overhead power lines should be maintained, and suspended loads or personnel platforms should be used only when the machine, attachment, and procedure are approved for that purpose.

Operation should stop when the load chart is unavailable, ground conditions are unstable, visibility is inadequate, the load shifts, alarms fail, or workers cannot remain outside the machine and load path.

Safety Reminders

• Use only trained and authorized operators.
• Inspect the telehandler and attachment.
• Use the correct load chart.
• Keep loads low and stable during travel.
• Separate pedestrians from the operating area.
• Maintain power-line clearance.
• Stop for unstable ground or shifting loads.

Ask the Crew

• What is the load weight, center, and required reach?
• Which load chart and attachment configuration apply?
• Are the travel route and ground conditions stable?
• Where are pedestrians and overhead power lines?
• Is a spotter needed for travel or placement?