Telehandler Safe Use

Telehandlers are versatile machines used for lifting, loading, and placing materials, but they overturn more easily than cranes.
Overturn is the most common cause of serious telehandler incidents — caused by overloading, overreaching, and operating on slopes.
Operators must hold a valid CPCS or NPORS card specifically for telescopic handlers before operating on site.
The load chart must be consulted for every lift — capacity reduces dramatically as the boom extends and height increases.
Telehandlers must operate on firm, level ground — soft or sloping ground significantly increases the risk of overturn.
Attachments including forks, buckets, and work platforms change the machine's capacity and centre of gravity.
Personnel carrying in a work platform attachment requires additional precautions including a specific risk assessment and daily inspection.
The telehandler must not be used as a crane unless specifically rated and fitted for lifting operations under LOLER.
Pre-use checks must cover the boom, hydraulics, tyres, lights, seat belt, attachment locking, and all safety systems.
Pedestrian exclusion zones must be maintained around the operating telehandler, particularly during boom extension.

Overturn risk	Telehandlers have a much smaller stability envelope than cranes — exceeding the load chart causes sudden, fatal overturns.
Attachment awareness	Changing attachments alters the machine's capacity and balance — the operator must adjust to the load chart for each attachment.
Not a crane	Using a telehandler as a crane without proper rating and procedures leads to overloading, dropped loads, and enforcement action.

Do

Don't

Hold a valid CPCS or NPORS telescopic handler card before operating.
Consult the load chart for every lift, accounting for boom extension and height.
Operate on firm, level ground — avoid soft ground and excessive slopes.
Complete the daily pre-use inspection including boom, hydraulics, and attachment locking.
Wear the seat belt at all times while operating the telehandler.
Maintain pedestrian exclusion zones around the machine during all operations.
Confirm the attachment is correctly fitted and the locking mechanism is fully engaged.
Follow LOLER requirements if the telehandler is used for lifting operations.
Travel with the boom retracted and load low for maximum stability on site.
Report any hydraulic leaks, unusual noises, or control problems immediately.

DON'T operate a telehandler without a valid CPCS or NPORS card for the category.
DON'T exceed the load chart capacity at any boom extension or height combination.
DON'T operate on soft, sloping, or uneven ground without assessing the stability risk.
DON'T skip the pre-use inspection — defects in the boom or hydraulics cause failures.
DON'T drive without the seat belt fastened — overturns are sudden and violent.
DON'T allow pedestrians within the operating zone of the telehandler.
DON'T use attachments without confirming the locking mechanism is fully secure.
DON'T use the telehandler as a crane unless it is rated and set up for lifting.
DON'T travel with the boom extended and load raised — retract and lower for stability.
DON'T carry passengers on the telehandler or in the bucket or forks.

See also: Lifting Operations Awareness (LOLER) | Plant Pre-Use Inspections

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