Hiring a telescopic handler - a Rabbit Plant Hire Guide
Telescopic handlers (or telehandlers, zoom booms or reach forklifts), can tackle many tasks across a building site but are normally used for moving heavy loads from one area to another.
If you’re looking to hire a telescopic handler for an upcoming project, you may find it useful to know that we have a large choice of telehandlers available to hire, with reaches from 4m up to 17m.
You can find everything you might need to know about telescopic handler hire in this handy guide, including the following:
- The cost of hiring a telescopic handler
- How to choose the right size telescopic handler
- Licensing and insurance requirements for operating a telescopic handler
- Maintenance of a telescopic handler
How much does it cost to hire Telescopic Handlers?
Many construction site and plant managers find it useful to hire telehandlers if they are only required for a certain period of time, rather than buy them outright. In addition to being the cheaper option, this can also remove the need to store the equipment when it is no longer needed.
The cost of hiring a telehandler will doubtless be an important budget consideration. One way to save money is by looking for local telescopic handler hire as you’ll pay less in transport costs. For example, as a West Sussex based business, Rabbit Plant Hire is local to most of Sussex and Surrey, as well as parts of Hampshire and Kent.
The cost of hiring a telescopic handler from us will vary depending on a number of factors, such as how long you will need it for, the size of the equipment required and the type of work it will be used for.
Why not ask us today about our telehandler hire costs and see how much you could save? Contact our expert and friendly team on 01903 851957 or email info@rabbitanddowling.co.uk.
How Big A Telescopic Handler Do I Need?
Choosing the right size of telescopic handler for your project is a vital consideration. The size of the telehandler dictates the load weight it can carry. If you select the wrong size, you run the risk of it dropping the load or the vehicle toppling over, causing serious injury to the driver and/or anyone nearby, as well as damaging the equipment itself.
You also need to be certain that the telehandler you hire can safely manage the required lift height and will be able to gain access to the building site, as well as the specific area(s) where it will be working. Once on site, it should be able to manoeuvre easily, so check the height, width and reach of the vehicle you are looking to hire before making your final selection.
Other considerations when choosing the right size telehandler for your project should include the stability of the ground the machine will be moving on and any environmental conditions, including high winds. Taking these factors into consideration will ensure the telehandler can be operated safely.
For details of the load capacity and other information, take a look at the different spec sheets for each of the telescopic handlers available for hire from Rabbit Plant Hire. If you are still unsure about which piece of machinery you need, get in touch with a member of our team for help and advice - we also offer a free site visit to assess your requirements.
Do I Need A Licence To Hire Or Operate A Telehandler
When lifting and moving heavy loads, there is always the risk that something could go wrong, leading to catastrophic damage, serious accidents or even fatalities. When the telehandler is at full reach its stability is very much reduced and great care should be taken when operating it.
For this reason, the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) stipulates that telescopic handler drivers must be fully trained, competent and authorised to operate the specific telehandler used.
The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS A17) telehandler training course provides successful candidates with a Red Trained Operator card, which they receive upon passing the course. This card helps to demonstrate a driver’s competence and their certificates should be checked for validity. Safe pedestrian routes should also be provided and a procedure put in place for making drivers aware of their presence.
While anyone over the age of 17 can hire a telescopic handler, it is important that the person responsible for the hire has carried out a suitable risk assessment to ensure the safe use of the equipment.
What Insurance Do You Need To Hire A Telescopic Handler?
We expect anyone who is hiring one of our telescopic handlers to take all reasonable measures to keep it safe and secure at all times during the hire period. It should also be covered by your insurance.
You can get more details of your responsibilities regarding loss or damage in our Loss or Damage waiver agreement.
You may also wish to consider liability insurance in case of injury. Your current policy may not cover hired-in plant equipment.
Maintenance And Care Of Your Hired-In Telehandler
Having carried out a proper risk assessment to ensure the safe use of a telescopic handler, it is also important that the machine is inspected on a daily basis for any damage which could lead to accidents. Additionally, anyone operating the machinery must be provided with the correct safety equipment and clothing that fits correctly.
It’s also important to double check that all loads which are to be carried are secure and stable and ensure anyone operating the telehandler is not only properly trained, but also completely aware of their surroundings and all procedures.
Get Advice On Which Telescopic Handler To Hire
Rabbit Plant Hire has a wide range of telescopic handlers to choose from. If you are still unsure as to which one would be right for your project, feel free to consult our telehandler hire experts.
Telescopic handlers can be hired for a minimum of 24 hours. We can carry out a FREE SITE CHECK and advise you on which is the best option for your requirements.
To find out more about Rabbit Plant Hire’s services contact our expert and friendly team on 01903 851957or info@rabbitanddowling.co.uk.
