To ensure that safety is a top priority, there are 5 key steps. In order to ensure that the unit is visually safe, the first step is to perform a Walk-Around Inspection. Next check if the work location is safe to utilize with a Worksite Assessment. The Function Test is the third step in order to know whether or not the unit is safely functioning. The 4th thing to take into consideration is Proper Operation, so as to determine whether or not the model is working safely. Lastly, Proper Shutdown should be checked so as to make sure the model is capable of shutting down correctly and is in a safe place.
At the center of the 5 steps and this regulation, there is a machine that stands on a triangular footprint and lifts heavy weights to impressive heights. The main goal is to keep the telehandler upright, but of course there are risks.
The telehandler's triangular base comprises the rear-axle pivot point and the two front wheels. The rear axles normally oscillates, hence the back wheels are not considered part of the base. The telehandler remains upright so long as the machine's center of gravity, which is defined as the point in 3 dimensions around which the weight of the equipment is balanced, stays oriented in the stability triangle.
When the boom is down, adding a load to the forks at that time changes the center of gravity forward and down. Raising the load will move the center of gravity to the rear and upwards. At the same time, the stability triangle shrinks when this occurs. Hence, the higher you lift a load, the less of a margin for error you have as the stability triangle lessens.
With a stable but small stability triangle, it leaves less room for the center of gravity to move left or right. This wandering action can change the stability triangle, leaving less room for the frame to remain balanced if it is not completely level. Like for example, imagine the center of gravity resembling a plumb bob hanging from the boom. You will always be able to find the center of gravity somewhere on a totally vertical line between the center of the ground and a point on the boom. If the frame is not level, the center of gravity will not be oriented over the centerline of the machine. The stability triangle is always aligned with the centerline of the telehandler.