Masonry Magazine September 2001 Page. 16
When determining capacity requirements, take into account not only the weight of the load, but also where it is to be placed.
The tractors Association of America also offers a two-part forklift safety training manual as well.
KNOW YOUR APPLICATION
Until you can determine the weight and size of the loads you are moving, the height they must be placed and the area in which the telehandler must operate, you cannot accurately decide which unit will safely and efficiently perform the tasks your jobs require. Increased efficiency handling materials leads to increased productivity in the construction phase, which in turn yields lower cost and increased profitability.
LET'S TALK CAPACITY
Lifting capacity is typically stated as the amount of weight the telehandler is able to lift with the boom in a retracted and lowered position. For example, a 6000lb capacity machine with forty two feet lift height, in most cases, cannot place a 6000lb load forty feet high and ten feet in front of the machine. In this position, the machine would probably only be able to safely lift 4500lb-5000lb. The majority of a telehandler's true work is done when placing loads with the boom extended ten feet or more in front of the front tires.
When determining capacity requirements, take into account not only the weight of the load, but also where it is to be placed. Let's assume, for a moment, we are attemping to place a 4,000 lb load on the sixth tier of scaffold and the machine cannot get closer than ten feet from the scaffold. The basic capacity of the machine, at this point, has no meaning. Whether it has 5000lb, 6000lb or 8000lb basic capacity, if it does not have the capacity retention (available lift capacity at working height) to place the load in the work area safely and efficiently, it is not the machine you need or want.
To place a load safely and efficiently, an operator should follow the following procedure: with the load on the forks below eye level, approach the work site; position the machine perpendicular to the off-loading area; level the machine; set the parking brake; raise and place the load; retract and lower the boom. From the time that the load is raised, the operator should never need to reposition the machine to land the load. Never drive or frame level the machine with the forks elevated above eye level.