Training is a crucial part of any worker’s job to increase productivity and workplace safety. Without proper training, your employees cannot use different equipment properly, increasing the chances of accidents and failures.
In this article, we have discussed in detail about telehandler training for workers. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!
4 Phases of Telehandler Training for Workers
The telehandler training program depends upon numerous factors, including your select machinery and training program. There are numerous types of training programs available out there. However, our best pick is “Clockwork Training” – a platform providing all of the necessary safety and equipment training requirements!
In addition, there are different types of telehandlers available out there. As no two variations are the same, the same for their required training. However, regardless of your selected telehandler type, all training programs have 4 important phases in common, including:
Phase #1 – Theory Training
Generally speaking, all training programs start with theory training. It includes the introduction of your training program and everything you need to know about your machinery. This section will cover the following aspects:
- Introduction
- Rules and regulation
- Types of telehandlers
- Capabilities and functions
- Safety measures
- Leverage
- Load charts
- Fuels
- Steering modes
- Operations
This phase is essential to gather crucial information about your equipment. It allows you to learn all about your telehandler, from its reach to attachments that you can use with your machine. It’ll also provide the necessary information related to telehandler safety!
Phase #2 – Theory Evaluation
Once you complete the phase #1, it’s time to evaluate your knowledge. To do so, you’re required to participate in a knowledge-review test. This test consists of different parts, including essay-type questions, true/false, and multiple-choice questions.
To perform well in a theory evaluation test, you need to be active during phase #1 – Theory Training. If you are performing in a “Clockwork Training” program, you’re required to score at least 70% to pass the theory evaluation. Plus, if you’re not fluent in English, make sure to get an interpreter prior to attending the test.
Phase #3 – Practical Training
You cannot work with a telehandler just by learning about its different parts. So, while theory is an important part of a training program, practical is vital. You cannot complete a telehandler training program by participating in practical training.
Through practical training, workers can learn about pre-use inspection, safety measures, machine controls, and operating procedures. This training is done under the supervision of a program trainer to ensure you’re polishing your skills without causing accidents.
The practice training includes:
- Initial inspection & maintenance check
- Setting up the telehandler
- Equipment
- Driving the equipment
- Placing the material
- Packing up the machinery
- Cleaning the work area
Depending on your knowledge and skills, the time period for this training program can vary! On average, the time duration for the Clockwork Telehandler training program can fall anywhere between 4-6 hours. However, you may have to invest more time if you face problems with your practical training.
Phase #4 – Practical Evaluation
Just like theory evaluation, you’re required to evaluate your practical training as well! Once you learn all about your machinery and reach a minimum skill level, you’ll be evaluated using the telehandler in numerous skills-reinforcing scenarios.
Practical evaluation determines whether or not you have learned anything from your training. If you perform well in this phase, you’ll get a certificate. Alternatively, if you have encountered any issues during this phase, these issues will be addressed accordingly.
Once you complete the training, you’ll get a wallet card certification. Furthermore, if you have previously performed in a training program, you can apply for a re-certification course. To do so, your previous certificate must be either from Clockwork Safety & Equipment Training or a widely credible source.
Telehandler Training – Important Safety Tips
It’s important that workers work as safely as possible with telehandlers. These machines can be used efficiently as important support machines. However, to reduce the risk of accidents, training your workers is a must!
Here’re some of the safety tips that workers must keep in mind while using a telehandler:
Rules & Regulations
Rules and regulations are designed to keep the worker safe. Always follow the rules related to heavy-duty machinery, such as telehandlers. You should read the manual prior to using a telehandler. Also, make sure to learn about the provincial or government regulations related to telehandler operations.
You can follow numerous safety procedures to avoid incidents, such as provincial Occupational Health & Safety regulations, Operator’s & Manufacturer’s manual, and employer’s Health and Safety procedures. Also, make sure to wear proper PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) while working with a telehandler.
Tipping Safety
Compared to a forklift, a telehandler offers better stability due to its bigger body and base. This is the main reason why a telehandler is ideal for even a slippery and uneven surface. However, that doesn’t mean this machinery cannot tip over!
If, for some reason, your telehandler tips over, you should never try to jump from the equipment. Instead, stay in your seat and brace for impact. Try to lean away from the POI (Point of Impact) and grasp the steering wheel.
Stability Triangle
Keeping the center of gravity of your telehandler and the material (which is being carried by the machine) within the stability triangle is crucial. If it’s not within the stability triangle, the chances of your machinery tipping over are greater!
To avoid these issues, you should operate your telehandler at a speed that allows you to keep the machinery under control. Furthermore, although a telehandler offers a reach of up to 30 feet and above, you should keep the boom as low as possible during travel.
Machine Controls
Workers can avoid numerous accidents just by learning about their equipment. If they have proper know-how about the telehandler, they can run the machine efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents. You can gather this information by participating in a theory training program or reading the manufacturer’s and operator’s manuals.
While operating the cab, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, always fasten your seatbelt. A seatbelt will protect you from falls and tip-overs. Plus, make sure to position your seat prior to running your machine to ensure you can easily reach the steering wheel and all other machine controls.
Know Your Machine
Telehandlers can carry and transport a lot of weight. However, you should never operate the machine without a load chart. Your machine and material must match the load chart, which should always be visible from your seat!
Before you operate a machine, make sure to learn about its maximum weight limit. The load’s weight and center of gravity should never exceed the weight limit. Otherwise, you won’t be able to control the telehandler properly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Workplace Hazard Assessment
Before you get yourself a telehandler, perform a workplace hazard assessment. Make sure your workplace is free of holes and slopes. Also, even though a telehandler can be used on an uneven and slippery surface, it’s not an ideal approach as it increases the risk of drop-offs.
