To make certain that safety is a top priority, there are 5 key steps. To be able to ensure that the model is visually safe, the initial step is to perform a Walk-Around Inspection. After that check if the work location is safe to use with a Worksite Assessment. The Function Test is the third step in order to know whether or not the unit is safely working. The 4th thing to consider is Proper Operation, so as to determine whether or not the model is operating safely. Last of all, Proper Shutdown has to be checked in order to make sure the unit is in a safe place and is capable of shutting down properly.
At the center of the 5 steps and this regulation, there is a machine that lifts heavy weights to impressive heights and stands on a triangular footprint. The main goal is to be able to maintain the telehandler upright, but for sure there are dangers.
The triangular base of the telehandler comprises the rear-axle pivot point and the two front wheels. The rear axles usually oscillates, therefore the rear wheels are not considered part of the base. The telehandler remains upright as long as the machine's center of gravity, which is defined as the point in 3 dimensions around which the machine's weight is balanced, stays oriented in the stability triangle.
When a load is positioned on the forks while the boom is down, the center of gravity down and forward. The load if lifted would change the center of gravity upwards to the rear. At the same time, when this happens, the stability triangle shrinks. Therefore, the higher you raise a load, the less of a margin for error you have since the stability triangle lessens.
With a small but stable stability triangle, it leaves less room for the center of gravity to move left or right. This wandering action could 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 can always find the center of gravity someplace on a totally vertical line between a point on the boom and the center of the ground. If the frame is not level, the center of gravity will not be oriented over the centerline of the machinery. The stability triangle is always aligned with the centerline of the equipment.