Safety Pre-Checks

Before operating a telehandler, ensure it’s safe for use:

• Visual Inspection: Check for structural damage, tyre condition (pressure, tread), leaks, and attachment integrity.
• Hydraulic Systems: Test boom movement, stabilizers (if fitted), and hydraulic lines.
• Power Systems: Verify fuel/diesel levels, battery charge, and engine functionality.
• Controls & Safety Features: Test Load Moment Indicator (LMI), alarms, emergency stops, and cab controls.
• Attachments: Inspect forks, buckets, or NZ-specific tools (e.g., bale spikes, jibs) for wear and secure connections.

Safe Operation with Attachments

Learn to operate telehandlers safely with various attachments:

• Control Systems: Master boom extension/retraction, steering modes (2-/4-wheel), and attachment controls.
• Attachment Handling: Safely use NZ common attachments (e.g., pallet forks, silage grabs, lifting platforms).
• Load Management: Interpret load charts, balance loads, and respect Safe Working Load (SWL) limits.
• Terrain Navigation: Operate on slopes, muddy paddocks, and uneven construction sites while maintaining stability.
• Hazard Awareness: Avoid overhead power lines, unstable ground, and environmental obstacles.

Safe Work Practices

Reduce risks with best practices:

• Stability Management: Avoid tip-overs by understanding load centres and terrain limitations.
• Communication: Use NZ-approved hand signals and spotters in shared workspaces.
• Weather & Environment: Adjust operations for rain, wind, or rough terrain (common in NZ).
• Working at Height: Secure personnel platforms and avoid unsafe lifting angles.

Post-Operation Checks

Ensure equipment is secure and ready for future use:

• Shutdown Procedure: Retract boom, lower attachments, park on level ground, and power down.
• Post-Use Inspection: Check for new damage, leaks, or tyre wear caused during operation.
• Attachment Care: Clean, store, and log any issues with attachments.
• Documentation: Complete WorkSafe NZ-compliant logbooks and report defects.

NZ-Specific Focus

• WorkSafe Compliance: Align with Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and WorkSafe NZ guidelines.
• Attachments: Training on NZ agriculture/forestry tools (e.g., log grabs, bale clamps).
• Terrain Challenges: Master muddy farm paddocks, steep construction sites, and forestry terrain.

Certification

• Connexis Assessment: Pass a NZQA Approved Connexis theory test (NZ regulations, load charts) and practical evaluation (pre-checks, obstacle course).
• Validity: Certification valid for 3 years (refresher recommended).