Working with a high capacity telehandler is not as easy as gulping a piece of the pie. It possesses some crucial hazards which are life-threatening for both operators and pedestrians. The size and the work it performs make this equipment complex without any certified and experienced hands. So to properly use these heavy machines, you need hardcore skills and patience. Handling it without a telehandler certification might be dangerous for you and the workers using it at the job site.
No wonder these telehandlers are of great use on the job site. However, safety measures have to be practised, irrespective of years of experience. Despite being essential for construction work, they are hazardous, if not operated properly. If you do not want to shorten your journey from while operating a high capacity telehandler to a hospital with an injury, then here are some hazards that you should know in detail before handling a telehandler.
Let’s first try to understand more about the telehandler:
What is a Telehandler (Telescopic Handler)?
A telehandler, also known as a Telescopic handler, is a machine used at construction sites for performing several tasks at height. They are necessary for lifting, loading, and dumping heavy loads. Many construction sites have several high-capacity telehandlers of every size for their productive work.
Modern telehandlers are making construction work easy and increasing work efficiency with its productive attachments. Building materials on the concrete and steel rods are placed from one place to another with the help of a telehandler. They are also necessary for supplying tools to the workers, working at a great height.
The Top Five Serious Hazards of a High-Capacity Telehandler
Working with such a big machine is not easy to handle as you need to be skilled and have a better idea of the site where you are working before operating it perfectly. If you are new and unaware of its regulations, do not try to operate the machine. Proper and safer use of telehandlers in construction will ensure a secure environment on the job site. Here are a few hazards a telehandler possesses:
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Avoid Dangerous Overturning:
As you know, it is a heavy machine. So, there is always a slight possibility of overturning, if not handled safely. Excessive loads, unsuitable terrain, and operator mistake are a few reasons behind the overturning. Sometimes, overloading leads to the overturning of the telehandler. Therefore, it is essential to keep the load to the capacity and close to the machine so it will not lose its balance. Also, to prevent overturning, it is required to maintain its stability. Before raising heavy loads, it is preferable to fix a level indicator to the telehandler so that you can not exceed the load limit.
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Be Mindful of Electrocution:
It is good to inspect the place where you are going to work. If you are working at any construction site, always be mindful of live cables and overhead power lines because these power lines are too dangerous and can kill you in a minute. Always be aware of your route while driving a high-capacity telehandler. If any live wire is present at your construction site, always try to make a safe distance from them. Electrocution is one of the most painful accidents at any construction site.
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Be Aware of High Capacity Telehandler Collision:
Not everyone can drive a telehandler perfectly. However, to become a telehandler operator, polish your driving skills to handle your heavy machine properly and avoid unnecessary collisions. It is the most common issue that occurs at almost every construction site. While driving a telehandler, be extra aware of your surroundings, especially the bystanders. Properly use the side mirrors while reversing the vehicle. Always keep side mirrors clean and damage-free to avoid accidents. Having a reversing alarm in your telehandler is really good for your safety.
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Avoid Suspended Load:
It is one of the most hazardous situations where anyone on the construction site can meet with heavy injuries or a deadly accident. It is advised to keep the boom of the telehandler low in the ground. Also, visibility issues occur with booms raised to a height. With heavy loads, always drive a telehandler at a moderate speed and never try to exceed by more than 5 km/hr.
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Check Out the Damaged Components:
If you are working with an old machine and have a proper inspection carefully, there is a possibility that it will collapse. As an operator, you need to inspect every part of it before driving. A single loose screw can create a massive incident. If a telehandler is kept stagnant for a longer time or unused for a long time, then you seriously need to check it out and send it for maintenance. and now you want to use it, you should send it for a maintenance checkup to avoid any crucial activities.
Operating a high capacity telehandler needs the best concentration skills. There are many obstacles present at the construction site that can obstruct your vision during the operation. Therefore, you should always drive a telehandler with proper eyesight and confidence. If you are performing challenging or risky work with the telehandler, you should be aware of the safety checklist.
All the hazards that a telehandler possesses are not acceptable for the growth of the company and the workers working there. All these hazards are deadly in nature. So, adopting a protective measure is highly necessary and beneficial for the workers. Always follow safe work procedures because they will always keep you free from injury.
However, if you are planning on renting or buying a high capacity telehandler, contact the Dieci Ontario team at 1-833-743-2500, and get the best machine with its perfect fit attachment. You can also email your queries to info@dieciontario.ca or visit our official website.