Why does a telehandler need a load chart?

What it can lift depends on how far out and how high the boom is, and on the attachment. The chart in the cab says what's safe for each position. The operator reads it before every lift.

What should I do if the telehandler fails the check?

Stop using it. Tag it out of service so nobody else runs it, tell your supervisor, and write down what failed. It goes back into service after it's been repaired and checked. A missing load chart, a failed brake or a latch that doesn't lock is a stop.

Does this telehandler checklist meet OSHA requirements?

It's a starting point. The maker's manual, your company procedures and the rules that apply to you decide what must be checked. Add or remove lines to match. A checklist records that a check happened. It doesn't guarantee compliance.

Free template

A telehandler inspection checklist you can print today.

Check the machine, the load chart and the attachment before the boom goes out. Then look at the ground and the route. Print the sheet or save it as a PDF. Use it alongside the manufacturer's operator manual and your site's procedures.

Also calledTelehandler pre-use inspection, Telehandler daily checklist, Telescopic handler checklist, Rough terrain forklift inspection

See the sheet All free tools

Free to print, copy and change. It’s a starting point. Add the lines your equipment and your rules need.

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Telehandler checklist

Date

Time

Site or location

Operator name

Machine make, model and unit number

Hour meter reading

Before you start (engine off)

PassFailN/A

Operator's manual and the load chart are in the cab and readable
Cab frame, overhead guard and glass are intact
Seat, seat belt and any restraint are in good condition
Boom sections, wear pads and chains show no cracks, bends or wear
Forks or attachment are undamaged, and the carriage latch locks fully
Stabilizers or outriggers extend, retract and lock, where fitted
Hydraulic hoses, cylinders and fittings are free of leaks
Tires and wheels are in good condition, and lug nuts are tight
Engine oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid and fuel levels are correct
Mirrors, lights and warning labels are clean and undamaged

After you start (engine on)

PassFailN/A

Gauges and warning lights work, and none stay on
Horn, back-up alarm and lights work
Steering modes work: front, crab and four-wheel
Service brake stops the machine, and the parking brake holds
Boom lifts, extends, lowers and retracts smoothly, and holds when released
Attachment tilt and any side-shift work smoothly
Frame leveling works, where fitted
Load moment indicator or load-limit warning works, where fitted
No unusual noises, smells or vibration
Fire extinguisher is in place, if your site requires one

Load and route

PassFailN/A

Load weight and its center are known and within the load chart for this reach and height
Load is secure on the forks or attachment
Ground is firm and level for the lift, with no soft spots or slopes
Travel route is clear of people, power lines and overhead hazards
Operator is trained on this machine and reads the load chart

Defects found and action taken

Taken out of service? Yes NoReported to

Inspector signature

Date

Supervisor review

Date

A starting point. Adapt it to your equipment, your procedures and the rules that apply to you.Free template from portalbaseai.com

How to use it

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Step 1
Check before every shift
Do it before the machine is used. Read the load chart for the attachment that's on it today.
Step 2
Mark every line
Pass, fail or not applicable. Don't leave a line blank. A blank line is a question nobody can answer later.
Step 3
Tag out a failure
If the load chart is missing, or a brake, latch or alarm fails, don't use the machine. Tag it and report it.

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Run this check on a phone, with a photo on any failed step, no signal needed. A failed step opens a repair and the record is kept for you.

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Common questions

Why does a telehandler need a load chart?: What it can lift depends on how far out and how high the boom is, and on the attachment. The chart in the cab says what's safe for each position. The operator reads it before every lift.
What should I do if the telehandler fails the check?: Stop using it. Tag it out of service so nobody else runs it, tell your supervisor, and write down what failed. It goes back into service after it's been repaired and checked. A missing load chart, a failed brake or a latch that doesn't lock is a stop.
Does this telehandler checklist meet OSHA requirements?: It's a starting point. The maker's manual, your company procedures and the rules that apply to you decide what must be checked. Add or remove lines to match. A checklist records that a check happened. It doesn't guarantee compliance.

Related and more free tools

Free tool

A telehandler inspection checklist you can print today.

Telehandler checklist

Before you start (engine off)

After you start (engine on)

Load and route

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Check before every shift

Mark every line

Tag out a failure

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Get new free tools by email.

Common questions

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