HSE investigates telehandlers

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is looking at the way telehandlers are used and could insist on the adoption of crane-type regulations in some instances.

It is looking into the use of telehandlers fitted with accessories like roof truss handlers to decide if this type of operation comes under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).

If it concludes these should apply, then each time roof trusses are positioned contractors would have to prepare a written method statement, undertake a risk assessment and have an appointed person responsible for the lift.

"Telehandlers are designed for repeated simple lifts like placing brick pallets and there is no need for increased bureaucracy," said Andrew East, principal inspector in the HSE's construction section. But he added: "Some people are using telehandlers more like cranes and if they are involved in more complex lifts, then some form of special planning is required. If they are being used as cranes then LOLER applies."

Construction Plant-hire Association director and chief executive Colin Wood supported this view: "Where telehandlers are used as lifting machines they should be subjected to the same rules and regulations as mobile cranes."

John Walker, chief executive of Manitou, said roof truss handlers have made the moving and placing of roof trusses much safer. While welcoming any move that enhances safety, he admitted there is a possibility that some users could revert to slinging trusses across the forks in order to avoid the additional regulation.

Andrew Large, director of external affairs with the Federation of Master Builders, said any additional regulation will have an impact at site level, but overall the Federation would be supportive of any move that improved safety.