Telehandlers
Telehandlers have a single telescoping boom that can extend upward and forward. Various attachments can be installed on the boom to move loads. Some telehandlers can rotate, combining the functions of a forklift and a mobile crane.
- Hazards
- Reducing the risks
- Resources
Telehandlers are versatile machines used in many industries to move materials on worksites. The use of rotating telehandlers on worksites has grown in recent years.
Hazards
Employers need to be aware of the hazards of using telehandlers.
- The risk of tipping or rolling over increases when a telehandler:
- Raises or extends its boom
- Is overloaded, overextended, or carrying an unbalanced load
- Is carrying a suspended load that could sway or be affected by high winds
- Is operated on unstable or uneven ground
- The boom can come into contact with energized electrical equipment such as overhead power lines.
- Workers on the ground at the worksite can be struck by telehandlers.
Reducing the risks
- Consider if a telehandler is the right equipment for the job. For example, a mobile crane may be a better choice than a rotating telehandler. Mobile cranes have defined Canadian standards for design, training, and inspection.
- When renting or buying a telehandler, look for one that meets standards accepted by WorkSafeBC.
- Conduct a risk assessment before using a telehandler. Ensure your assessment considers how and where the equipment will be used, including:
- Terrain
- Load
- Attachments
- Proximity of workers on foot, other mobile equipment, structures, or electrical conductors
- Make sure operators are trained and are competent with the specific model of telehandler and attachments used.
- Conduct regular inspections of telehandlers.
- Train all workers in the risks of working around telehandlers and other types of mobile equipment.
See the bulletins linked below for more information about managing the risks of telehandlers.
Resources
Managing the risks of telehandlers
Telehandlers are used in many industries to move materials on worksites. They can put workers at risk of injury due to rollovers, load failure, or struck-by incidents. This bulletin provides information...
Title
Managing the risks of rotating telehandlers
Rotating telehandlers are used in many industries to move materials on worksites. They can put workers at risk of injury due to rollovers, load failure, or struck-by incidents. This bulletin provides...
Title
Layer risk controls to help prevent workers from being struck by mobile equipment
Struck-by incidents can occur in any workplace where mobile equipment is used, and the risk is increased when equipment operators have obstructed views (blind spots). The best way to prevent these incidents...