Telehandler Operations — Safe Work Method Statement
Safe Work Method Statement for the operation of a telehandler (telescopic handler) for lifting, placing, and transporting materials on construction sites, including use of forks, jib attachments, and work platforms.
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Telehandler (telescopic handler) operations on construction sites constitute HRCW under Schedule 3 of the model WHS Regulations where the machine is used for lifting operations — specifically as a forklift or crane equivalent. A SWMS is required before telehandler operations commence on a construction site, and must address the specific tasks, attachments, and site conditions.
Licensing for telehandler operators depends on the attachment in use. When operated with forks in the standard forklift configuration, the operator must hold a HRW licence in the Forklift class (LF) under the model WHS Regulations. When a jib or hook attachment is fitted and the machine is used as a crane, a relevant crane HRW licence may be required depending on the lift configuration and jurisdiction. Operators should confirm current requirements with their state WHS regulator. Regardless of licensing requirements, all operators must be trained and assessed as competent in the operation of the specific telehandler model and all attachments to be used.
Telehandlers differ from standard forklifts in their extended reach capability, which creates a longer moment arm and a different tipping risk profile. The load chart for a telescopic handler is a three-dimensional function of boom extension, lift height, and lateral tilt — operators must be trained to read and apply the load chart correctly for each configuration. Ground conditions are critical: telehandlers are typically used on uneven construction sites, and ground slope, soft fill, and edge proximity are all factors that reduce effective rated capacity.
When a man cage or work platform is attached, the telehandler becomes an EWP substitute and must comply with the relevant EWP requirements, including a continuous operator at the controls and communication between the platform occupant and the operator. This configuration creates additional HRCW obligations under the falls framework.
Customise this template with the machine make, model, and registration number; the attachments to be used and their rated capacities; the site terrain and ground condition assessment; and the specific tasks to be completed. This SWMS applies in all Australian states and territories.
Personal Protective Equipment
High Risk Construction Work Types
- •Use of powered mobile plant
- •Crane or hoist work (when using jib or EWP attachment)
- •Work at height (when using work platform attachment)
Risk Assessment
1.Pre-start inspection and set-up
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical failure during operation due to missed defects | High | Operator must complete the manufacturer's pre-start inspection checklist before each shift, checking: tyre condition and pressure, hydraulic fluid level and hose condition, all safety systems (load management indicator, seatbelt, ROPS/FOPS), lights, horn, and reversing alarm. Record findings in the plant logbook. Any defect that affects safe operation requires the machine to be tagged out, removed from service, and reported to the fleet/plant manager. Do not operate a machine with a defect tag. Confirm the machine registration and inspection date are current. | Low | Telehandler Operator |
| Inadequate ground conditions causing instability | High | Assess ground conditions before operating, particularly on recently filled or backfilled ground. Do not operate on slopes exceeding the manufacturer's rated gradient (typically 10° laden, 20° unladen). Lay steel or timber road mats over soft or uneven ground where operation cannot be avoided. Lower boom fully before travelling across slopes. Never travel with a raised load across slopes — lower to transport height (approx. 300 mm above ground). Conduct a ground assessment whenever the machine relocates to a new area on site. | Moderate | Telehandler Operator / Site Supervisor |
2.Fork operations and material transport
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Load falling from forks due to incorrect loading | High | Set fork width to match pallet width before loading — forks must fully support the pallet with no overhang beyond the leading edge of forks. Load must be evenly distributed across both forks. Maximum load must not exceed the WLL shown on the load capacity chart for the current boom extension and angle. Tilt forks back fully (carriage tilt) before travelling to stabilise load. Never carry a load that obscures the operator's forward vision without using a spotter or reversing direction of travel. Secure loose items with ratchet straps where required. | Low | Telehandler Operator |
| Collision with workers or structures while travelling | High | Sound horn before moving off and at all blind corners and intersections. Travel at maximum 10 km/h on site with load, 15 km/h without load, unless site-specific lower speed limits apply. A spotter must be used when reversing or when operating in areas where visibility is restricted. Establish pedestrian segregation routes that do not intersect with telehandler travel paths. Install mirrors at blind intersections. Operator must not use a mobile phone while operating the machine. | Low | Telehandler Operator / Site Supervisor |
3.High-level placement and boom extension
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Telehandler overturning due to overreach or soft ground under stabilisers | Catastrophic | Before extending boom above 3 m height, deploy all stabiliser legs if fitted and ensure pads are resting on stable, load-rated ground. Check the load management indicator (LMI/SLI) — do not override or disable LMI at any time. If LMI alarm activates, immediately lower boom without moving the load laterally. Confirm load weight against the manufacturer's load chart at the specific radius and boom angle before each high-level placement. Position machine on level ground within 2° of horizontal before high lifts. | Low | Telehandler Operator |
4.Personnel work platform (EWP attachment) use
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Falls from elevated work platform attachment | Catastrophic | Only a rated, purpose-designed work platform attachment approved by the telehandler manufacturer may be used to elevate persons. A Specific Engineered Lift Plan is required for all personnel lifts. The operator must hold a DogMan or Rigging licence for personnel hoisting. Workers in the basket must wear a safety harness attached to a rated anchor point inside the basket — not to the telehandler. The operator must remain in the seat with hands on controls at all times while persons are elevated. Emergency lowering procedure must be tested before personnel enter basket. Wind speed must not exceed 45 km/h. | Low | Telehandler Operator / Lift Supervisor |
5.Refuelling and end-of-shift parking
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fire during refuelling operations | High | Refuel only with engine off and all electrical components de-energised. Do not refuel within 3 m of a flame, spark, or energised electrical equipment. Use an approved fuel transfer container or pump with earthing strap connected to the machine to prevent static discharge. Keep a 9 kg dry powder fire extinguisher within 5 m of the refuelling point. No smoking within 5 m of refuelling area. Clean up any spill immediately with spill kit and dispose of contaminated materials in a labelled waste container. Record refuelling in the machine logbook. | Low | Telehandler Operator |
Relevant Codes of Practice
Worker Acknowledgement
By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.