When it comes to working with heavy machinery, few pieces of equipment are as versatile and indispensable as the telehandler. At the Diggerland Plant Training School in Kent, we understand the importance of providing extensive hands-on training to ensure operators are confident, skilled, and safe when operating these machines. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what telehandler courses involve, why they are so important, and what you can expect when you book a space on one of our courses.
What is a Telehandler and Why is it Used?
A telehandler, also known as a telescopic handler or telehandler forklift, is a multiskilled piece of construction equipment used for lifting and moving loads. It combines the features of a forklift with the capabilities of a crane. A telehandler is typically equipped with a boom that can extend, hence the “telescopic” aspect of the name, allowing it to lift items to greater heights and reach over obstacles. This makes it an invaluable piece of equipment on construction sites, farms, and any other environment where lifting and moving materials is essential.
Why Is A Telehandler Used?
Telehandlers are often used to transport goods, stack pallets, lift construction materials like bricks and concrete. They also provide assistance with tasks that require reaching higher elevations. The versatility of a telehandler lies in its ability to mount a variety of attachments, such as forks, buckets, and lifting jibs, making it ideal for different types of work. Whether it’s loading and unloading, material handling, or lifting tasks, a telehandler is up for the challenge.
Given their importance in construction, agriculture, and industrial settings, it’s crucial that telehandler operators are trained properly to handle the machine safely and efficiently.
Key Components of a Telehandler That You Need To Know About
At the Diggerland Plant Training School, we ensure that our telehandler courses provide thorough instruction on all the key components of the machine. Understanding the main parts of a telehandler and how they function is crucial for safe operation. Some of the most important elements covered during the training include:
Boom:
The boom is the primary component of a telehandler, extending and retracting to reach higher levels. Trainees will learn how to operate the boom to extend and retract with precision and care.
Forks:
One of the most common attachments for a telehandler is the forklift attachment. Participants will learn how to safely attach, adjust, and operate forks for picking up and moving materials.
Load Charts:
Telehandlers come with specific load charts that detail the weight capacity and safe working limits at various boom lengths and heights. Understanding how to read and interpret these load charts is a crucial part of the training.
Stabilisers:
Many telehandlers are equipped with stabilisers to provide added support when lifting heavy loads at height. Our courses include training on how to deploy and operate stabilisers properly to ensure maximum safety during lifting operations.
Controls and Instruments:
Familiarity with the telehandler’s control panel is essential. During the course, you will learn about the various controls, levers, and instruments in the cab. Which includes the engine, hydraulic system, and boom controls.
Safety Features:
Telehandlers are equipped with numerous safety features, such as load sensors, tilt alarms, and safety interlocks. Our training includes a focus on how to use these features effectively to enhance safety on the job site.
By covering these key components in detail, we make sure that every operator has an in depth understanding of the machine’s operation and safety features, which ultimately ensures they can operate a telehandler confidently and safely.
About the NPORS N010 Telehandler Training Course
Our Telehandler Courses are designed to provide comprehensive, hands-on training for individuals seeking to operate telehandlers safely and competently. The course is delivered by qualified instructors with years of experience in the plant machinery industry, offering a combination of theoretical lessons and practical exercises. Ensuring you understand the machine’s capabilities, limitations, and safe operating practices.
Our NPORS Telehandler (N010) course follows industry standards and is tailored to suit both new operators and those looking to refresh their skills. The course focuses on the following key areas:
Health and Safety:
We start with a focus on health and safety, as this is paramount in any environment involving heavy machinery. The training includes safe working practices, hazard awareness, and the legal requirements for operating telehandlers.
Machine Inspection:
Before operating a telehandler, it’s crucial to ensure it’s in safe working condition. During the course, we teach you how to carry out pre-operational checks, including visual inspections of the machine’s components, fluid levels, and tyres. This ensures that you identify potential issues before starting work.
Loading and Lifting Techniques:
The course also covers the essential skills required to safely lift and move loads. Trainees will learn how to correctly position the telehandler, how to calculate the load capacity based on the boom extension, and how to lift and place loads without causing damage or posing risks to themselves or others on site.
Operating the Telehandler:
We provide practical, hands-on training, so you get direct experience operating a telehandler in a controlled environment. This allows you to gain confidence while learning how to safely manoeuvre the machine, handle attachments, and manage different tasks.
Load Charts and Stability:
The course will teach you how to read and understand the telehandler’s load charts, which are crucial for ensuring that the machine is not overloaded. You’ll also learn how to operate the stabilisers to maximise the stability of the telehandler when lifting loads at height.
Practical Assessment:
At the end of the course, there is a practical assessment where you’ll demonstrate your ability to operate the telehandler safely. This includes tasks like lifting, moving, and stacking materials, all while following best safety practices.
Certification:
Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate of competency, which can open doors to various opportunities in the construction and agricultural sectors. This certification is recognised across the UK and demonstrates that you are qualified to operate telehandlers on-site.
When you book a space on our telehandler courses, you’ll be able to get certified within 1 – 5 days, depending on any prior experience.
Book Your Telehandler Training With Us Today
If you’re looking to improve your skills and gain certification in operating telehandlers, our telehandler courses offer an excellent opportunity to learn from industry professionals.
Give our team a call today to find out about our upcoming telehandler training course dates. Alternatively email us for more information.
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All information correct as of: 2nd April 2025.
