The operator of a high capacity telehandler is the only experienced one who knows every technique to operate and handle the machine irrespective of adverse situations. However, it is advised not to make use of any construction equipment in an unfriendly weather or construction site with uneven terrains. It can cause onsite accidents. One of the riskiest situations to deal on the construction site is the telehandlers with suspended loads. It is the operator’s responsibility to take every precaution while traveling with suspended loads on a site.
Few past cases and horrifying incidents confirm that traveling with a suspended load means creating a hazardous accident spot. Operators need to plan every step and record them in the method statement before starting any such operation. Also, this proper planning is carried out using the information provided by the telehandler manufacturer. If no such information is provided by the manufacturer, traveling with a suspended load should not be carried out. In such a case, a risk-free alternative should be chosen.
What does Traveling with Suspended Load Means?
Traveling with a suspended load involves traveling with the boom raised from the normal transport position, with additional dynamic forces due to swinging of the suspended load. If the information for traveling with a suspended load is provided by the manufacturer and the activity is permitted by the site, the following points should be adhered to:
- The boom and load should be kept as low to the ground as practicable (load 300-500mm above the ground). To facilitate this the correct length of chains, slings etc. should be selected.
- If necessary, the boom should be extended from fully retracted position by the minimum amount required to ensure that the load does not interfere with the front of the telehandler chassis. It is essential that the load radius remains within that allowed by the load chart for the magnitude of the load being lifted.
- Visibility may well be reduced and planning should identify appropriate control measures, such as a marshaller to guide the operator.
- Any load swing must be minimised by delicate use of controls and slow travel speeds.
- Operators should take care when braking and / or turning as this creates dynamic forces transmitted to the boom, thereby reducing stability.
- Slinger/signallers and other personnel should never walk in front of the telehandler to steady a swinging load as it is very easy to trip, fall and be crushed by the telehandler wheels.
- The machine should travel extremely slowly and never above walking pace.
- The operator should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for travelling on slopes and inclines. It is essential that they do not attempt to climb, descend or cross inclines in excess of manufacturer’s limiting values, as this significantly increases the likelihood of overturning.
- Lightweight but bulky items like roof trusses pose a special risk. Although relatively light, they are physically large, leading to large dynamic forces and are significantly affected by the wind. Physical restrictions on-site may require the boom to be elevated in order to clear fixed obstructions.
- Any carrying and placing of such items with a telehandler carries significant extra risk that must be addressed by the site risk assessment.
- Care should be taken to avoid overhead obstructions including overhead power lines.
Dieci Telehandler in Toronto is a recognized brand that deals in renting/purchasing of Dieci telehandlers and other construction machines. If you are looking for high capacity telehandlers that suits your site operations, then call us at 1-833-743-2500 or write to us at info@dieciontario.ca. Our representatives will get in touch with you.