Telehandler Safe Work Procedure

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure outlines the necessary safety precautions and procedures for the safe operation of a telehandler. It applies to all personnel involved in the operation, maintenance, and transportation of telehandlers. It is designed to minimize the risks associated with telehandler operations, including but not limited to: lifting and moving materials, working at heights, operating in confined spaces, and maneuvering in areas with pedestrian traffic. This procedure does not cover operations beyond the telehandler's designed capabilities or modifications not approved by the manufacturer.

2. Definitions

Telehandler A versatile machine with a telescopic boom used for lifting and moving materials. MSAD Minimum Safe Approach Distance. Competent Person An individual who is qualified because of knowledge, training, and experience to organize the work and is familiar with the legal requirements and has the skills and equipment to perform the work.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers are adequately trained and competent to operate the telehandler.
Conduct regular inspections of the telehandler to ensure it is in safe working condition.
Enforce all safety procedures and guidelines related to telehandler operation.
Provide workers with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
Ensure a pre-job briefing is conducted before the start of any telehandler operation.

3.2 Workers

Operate the telehandler in a safe and responsible manner.
Conduct pre-operational checks of the telehandler before each use.
Use the correct PPE as required.
Report any defects or safety concerns to the supervisor immediately.
Follow all safety procedures and guidelines.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Electrocution [1] [1] [1]	Contact with overhead power lines can result in serious injury or death.	Maintain a Minimum Safe Approach Distance (MSAD) of 10 ft from sources of power. Consult a qualified person if work requires being closer than 10 ft. Always assume electrical power sources and overhead lines are energized. Do not operate during lightning or storms.
Falling Objects	Materials falling from the telehandler can cause injury to workers below.	Ensure all loads are properly secured. Establish a drop zone and restrict access. Use tag lines to control the load.
Tip-Over	Unstable ground conditions or exceeding load capacity can cause the telehandler to tip over.	Ensure the ground is level and stable. Never exceed the telehandler's load capacity. Use outriggers when necessary.
Collision	Collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians can cause serious injury or property damage.	Establish a traffic control plan. Use a spotter when operating in congested areas. Maintain a safe speed.
Crushing Hazard	Workers can be crushed between the telehandler and other objects.	Maintain a safe distance from other objects. Be aware of the telehandler's swing radius. Never allow workers to stand or walk under the boom.
Entanglement	Clothing or body parts can become entangled in moving parts of the telehandler.	Keep clothing and body parts away from moving parts. Ensure all guards are in place.
Slips, Trips, and Falls [2]	Slips, trips, and falls while mounting or dismounting the telehandler.	Maintain three points of contact when mounting or dismounting. Keep steps and handholds clean and free of debris.
Uncontrolled Movement During Towing [2] [2]	The telehandler can slide or require additional stopping distance during towing, especially on inclines or with bad traction.	Always chock wheels of the disabled telehandler to prevent accidental movement while preparing for towing. Ensure the towing vehicle, chains, tow bar, etc., are suitable for the job.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All personnel involved in the operation of a telehandler must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Hard Hat: A hard hat meeting ANSI Z89.1 standards must be worn at all times.
Safety Glasses: Safety glasses with side shields meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards must be worn to protect against flying debris.
High-Visibility Vest: A high-visibility vest that meets ANSI 107 standards must be worn to ensure visibility in the work area.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots meeting ASTM F2413 standards must be worn to protect feet from impact and compression hazards.
Gloves: Gloves appropriate for the task being performed must be worn to protect hands from cuts, abrasions, and other hazards.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or wear. Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

All equipment and tools used with the telehandler must be in good working condition and inspected regularly.

Telehandler: Ensure the telehandler is the correct type and capacity for the job.
Load Charts: Load charts must be available and easily accessible to the operator.
Tag Lines: Use tag lines to control the load and prevent swinging.
Outriggers: Use outriggers to stabilize the telehandler when lifting heavy loads.

Inspect the telehandler daily before use. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and servicing.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All operators must be trained and certified in the safe operation of the telehandler. Training must include:

Operation of controls
Load charts and capacity
Inspection and maintenance
Site-specific hazards

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before each telehandler operation to discuss the following:

Job tasks and sequence
Potential hazards
Safety procedures
Communication methods
Emergency procedures

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Before operating the telehandler, the work area must be inspected and prepared. This includes:

Ensuring the ground is level and stable
Identifying and marking any underground utilities
Clearing any obstructions
Establishing a traffic control plan if necessary

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Pre-Operational Check: Before each shift, perform a thorough inspection of the telehandler, including:

Fluid levels
Tire condition
Hydraulic hoses
Controls
Safety devices

Starting the Telehandler: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for starting the telehandler. Ensure all safety devices are functioning properly.
Operating the Telehandler: Operate the telehandler smoothly and avoid sudden movements. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from other objects and personnel.
Lifting and Moving Loads: Ensure the load is within the telehandler's capacity. Secure the load properly and use tag lines to control the load. Avoid lifting loads over personnel.
Traveling with a Load: Keep the load low to the ground and travel at a safe speed. Avoid traveling on uneven or unstable surfaces.
Working at Heights: When working at heights, ensure that fall protection measures are in place. Use a safety harness and lanyard attached to an approved anchor point.
Shutting Down the Telehandler: Park the telehandler on a level surface, lower the boom, and engage the parking brake. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for shutting down the telehandler.
Towing the Telehandler: Use this procedure only to remove telehandler from mud or other places where it cannot move under its own power. Always chock wheels of the disabled telehandler to prevent accidental movement while preparing for towing. Before towing, ensure there are no obstructions around or between telehandler and towing vehicle. [2] [2] [2]

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Never exceed the telehandler's load capacity.
Always wear the required PPE.
Be aware of overhead power lines and maintain a safe distance. [1]
Inspect the telehandler before each use and report any defects.
Follow all safety procedures and guidelines.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop the telehandler and activate the emergency brake. Assess the situation and provide first aid if necessary. Contact emergency services and follow their instructions.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Telehandler Tip-Over: If the telehandler tips over, remain inside the cab and brace yourself. Wait for emergency services to arrive.
Contact with Power Line: If the telehandler comes into contact with a power line, remain inside the cab and call for help. Warn others to stay away from the telehandler.
Fire: If a fire occurs, evacuate the area and use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire if it is safe to do so. Contact emergency services.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and prevent future occurrences.

The investigation will involve gathering information, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the scene. A report will be prepared with findings and recommendations.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]