Licensing & Training for Telehandlers – Our Guide!
A telehandler is a mobile, all-terrain machine that has a telescopic boom and a lifting attachment (such as tynes/forks).
There is often confusion regarding what type of training and licensing is required for a telehandler, and a common misconception is that a LF (Forklift) High Risk Work licence is sufficient. Forklifts and telehandlers are very different machines, and specific training is required for each to ensure they are operated in the safest possible manner.
It is important to note there are different types of telehandlers, and this impacts the licensing requirements.
- A telehandler with a capacity of up to 3 tonnes requires the operator to have competency/industry based training, such as the Gold Card issued by the Telescopic Handler Association.
- A telehandler is considered a ‘non-slewing mobile crane’ when they have a lifting capacity of over 3 tonnes and are fitted with a crane jib lifting attachment. Operators must hold a CN Class or above High Risk Work (HRW) licence to use this type of telehandler.
- To operate a telehandler with a ‘slewing’ capability, the operator must hold a High Risk Work licence (C2 class or above) – no matter the lifting capacity or attachment in use.
- If the telehandler has a work platform attachment and a boom length that exceed 11m, then an operator must also hold a WP class HRW licence.
The Telescopic Handler Association
The Telescopic Handler Association is an excellent resource for further information regarding the requirements surrounding this area. They have helpful documents available on their website regarding:
- Why do I need a Gold Card to operate a telescopic materials handler?
- Licence Matrix – Training requirements for all types of telehandlers, in all states
