26/03/2010 - HSE calls for telehandler safety
Telehandler operators have been warned not to use the machines if the right-hand side window is missing, after a man was crushed by his vehicle's mechanical arm.
The 36-year-old man was fatally injured by the boom (mechanical arm) while he was apparently leaning through the damaged window. This is the third incident of this type in the past seven years.
The telehandlers, or variable reach trucks, have the windows in place to prevent the driver from accessing the boom or injuring themselves. If this is missing it can result in operators accidentally lowering the arm on to themselves without being able to stop.
The Health and Safety Executive has issued a Safety Notice recommending that machines in this condition be removed from use until the window has been replaced, and reminding users of their duty to carry out daily checks of the truck which should include the condition of the cab windows.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
Related links
|
