Citation
  • Domenichini, D., Prism Economics and Analysis (2024). Overview of Rotating Telehandlers in Canada. Canadian Standards Association, Toronto, ON.

Executive Summary

Rotating telehandlers are multi-function machines that evolved from rough terrain forklifts into machines that can lift palletized materials on a set of forks, lift suspended loads using a winch and hoist similar to a mobile crane, or lift personnel similar to a boom type mobile elevating work platform (MEWP). Attachments have also been developed that allow these machines to operate as generic powered mobile equipment, for example, using attachments for sweeping or earth moving. Given rotating telehandlers’ rapid evolution, standards in Canada, and indeed in North America, have struggled to keep up with manufacturers’ creativity. However, standards governing telehandler design have been developed in other jurisdictions, particularly Europe.

The ability of rotating telehandlers to replace various other types of equipment has caused significant debate and confusion among relevant industry parties regarding how to best regulate this equipment. Topics include training and qualifications of operators, inspection and maintenance regimes, and safe work practices. The current standard in Canada governing this type of equipment, CSA B335-15, Safety Standard for Lift Trucks, is better suited to mast type forklifts, particularly those operating in an industrial setting. When applied to rotating telehandlers, which typically operate in other settings, such as construction, a number of deficiencies become apparent. Due to this lack of standards guidance, most regulators in Canada use a patchwork of generic legislation, inadequate practice standards, or are simply silent on the governance of rotating telehandlers.

There is a need for a Canadian approach to standardization for the design and operational aspects of rotating telehandlers. Through a literature review, this report explored regulations, standards, and practice standards used around the globe relating to telehandlers in general, and rotating telehandlers in particular. From this scan of best practices being carried out in other jurisdictions, along with interviews with key relevant parties, this report provides guidance on resources to support further research on the topic. This report also provides three recommendations about augmenting CSA B335-15 to properly address rotating telehandlers or removing rotating telehandlers from the scope of CSA B335-15 and developing a group of standards that specifically address this machinery. A description of each recommended option is provided together with its advantages and disadvantages.