20.08.2007

When steep is too steep

A construction worker at the Jackson Hole ski resort in Wyoming had a surprising escape last week after the telehandler he was driving tumbled head over heels backwards down the steep slope it was climbing.

The man was driving his Gradall up a very steep temporary road when the incline became too much for the machine causing it first to stall and then tip over backwards and tumble down the slope until it came to rest upside down.

Thanks to the machines Roll Over Protection, he escaped serious injury although he was taken off to hospital for a check up and to treat some minor scrapes and bumps.

Vertikal Comment

Modern telescopic handlers have incredible gradeability and traction, to the point where drivers can get themselves into such situations.

If it is not already included, operator training should incorporate a section on how to drive the machines on difficult and steep terrain, just as agricultural tractor or off road driving courses do.