Safe Use Of Telehandlers İn Construction Document Helps Reduce Risks Of Accident and İnjury

Telehandlers are among the most versatile pieces of material handling equipment used on construction sites, and contribute significantly into the efficiency of the construction process. In recent years both the capacity and reach of telehandlers have developed to the point where they are able to carry out many of the tasks traditionally undertaken by mobile and tower cranes. However, the versatility that makes them so useful also increases the risk of unsafe operations, which has led to a significant number of serious telehandler accidents, tragically including some fatalities.

The Strategic Forum Plant Safety Group has launched a new best practice document, ‘Safe Use of Telehandlers in Construction’, intended to help operators reduce their risks of accident and injury. The new document, which includes expert contributions from BITA members, was unveiled at the Executive Hire Show. The guidance is now freely downloadable from the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) and BITA websites.

In the Foreword to the Best Practice Guidance, Phillip White, Chief Inspector of Construction at HSE, said “Not only do these accidents have a terrible cost in terms of human suffering, they also have a significant financial cost for all concerned. This guidance has been prepared by a Working Group representing all parts of the industry, including the Health and Safety Executive to provide clarity on the safe use of telehandlers; including planning, role of personnel, training and familiarisation of personnel, safe use, maintenance, inspection and thorough examination. The guidance is straightforward, comprehensive and easy to adopt.”

Bob Hine IEng MIMechE, Technical Consultant to BITA, says: “We’re delighted that BITA members JCB, JLG and Merlo were able to have such full participation in the preparation of this definitive guide to the safe operation of telehandlers. The new document complements the pocket-sized BITA safety booklet Operator’s Safety Code for Rough Terrain Lift Trucks (the ‘red book’) offered via the BITA website.”