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Course Objective
By the end of this course, you will be able to
discuss/demonstrate:
Safe operation of a VMHLL within the
workplace, including your duties under
HASAWA and associated risks
Selection of a suitable area in which to
operate
Attachments, components and safety
features
Effective pre-use inspection and associated
reporting procedures
Authorisation to operate arrangements.
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Course Agenda
◆ Course Introduction
◆ Theory
◆ Introduction to the Equipment
◆ Introduction to the Hydraulic System
◆ Siting of the VMHLL and Deployment of the
Stabiliser Legs
◆ Use of the VMHLL Controls
◆ Pre-use Inspection
◆ Operating the Vehicle-mounted Hydraulic
Lorry Loader (attachment specific):
◆ Lifting with a Hook Attachment
◆ Lifting with a Clamshell Attachment
◆ Lifting with a Hydraulic Clamp
◆ Lifting with a Pallet Fork Attachment
◆ Pre-use Inspection
◆ Assessment
◆ Course Close
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Use of the VMHLLControls
Lifting
(With a Hook Attachment)
Lifting
(With a Clamshell Attachment)
Lifting
(With a Hydraulic Clamp)
Lifting
(With a Pallet Fork Attachment)
Pre-use Inspection of the VMHLL
Click the logo to return to this menu at any time
Theory Introduction to the Equipment Introduction to the Hydraulic System
Sitingof the VMHLLand Deploymentof the
StabiliserLegs
Click to select a session
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Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Section 2.1 – General Duties of Employers
It shall be the duty of every employer to
ensure, so far as reasonably practicable,
the health, safety and welfare at work of
all his employees.
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Section 2.2 – Duties of Employers
Securing the health, safety and welfare of
employees at work includes:
◆ Provision and maintenance of safe plant and
equipment
◆ Safe systems of work
◆ Safe use, handling, storage and transport of
articles and substances
◆ Providing information, instruction, training and
supervision.
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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Section 9 – Duties of Employers
Securing the health, safety and welfare
of employees at work includes:
◆ Provision of PPE as deemed necessary,
free of charge.
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act
1974
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Sections 7 and 8 – Duties of Employees
◆ To take reasonable care for themselves and
others who may be affected by their acts
and omissions
◆ To co-operate with their employer on
matters of safety
◆ Not to interfere with or misuse anything
provided in the interests of health and
safety.
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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The Act sets out the general duties which
employers have towards employees and
members of the public, and employees have to
themselves and to each other. These duties are
qualified in the Act by the principle of ‘so far as is
reasonably practicable’.
[HSC13]
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 –
Common Sense
◆ The HASAWA is quite broad in its scope.
◆ HSC13 provides clear guidance on what is required, and
where employers can find the information they need.
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Enforcement
Health and safety inspectors can enter any workplace
without giving notice. An incident does not need to have
occurred.
They can inspect:
◆ The workplace
◆ Work activities
◆ Management of health and safety
◆ Compliance.
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Fee for Intervention
◆ In force since 2012
◆ Aims at recovering the cost of any interventions
◆ Means companies who are found to have
broken H&S law are liable for costs
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Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
(PUWER)
The regulations relating to equipment
selection, usage, and operator training:
◆ L22: Safe Use of Work Equipment is the
ACOP and guidance on the regulations
◆ INDG291: Providing and Using Work
Equipment Safely is the short summary
of L22.
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Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
(PUWER)
◆ Regulation 4 – to provide suitable
equipment
◆ Regulation 5 – to provide maintenance
◆ Regulation 6 – to provide regular
inspections by competent persons
◆ Regulation 7 – to provide for specific
risks
◆ Regulation 8 – to provide information
and instruction
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Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
(PUWER)
◆ Regulation 9 – to provide training for
operators of work equipment
◆ Regulation 11 – to provide protection
from dangerous parts
◆ Regulation 12 – to provide protection
from specified hazards
◆ Regulation 15, 16, 17 & 18 – employer
responsibilities with regard to controls
systems
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Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
(LOLER)
The regulations relating to lifting equipment
and lifting operations:
◆ L113: Safe Use of Lifting Equipment is
the ACOP and guidance on the
regulations
◆ INDG290: Lifting Equipment at Work is
the short summary of L113.
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Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
(LOLER)
◆ Regulation 4 – strength and stability
◆ Regulation 5 – lifting persons
◆ Regulation 6 – positioning and
installation
◆ Regulation 7 – marking
◆ Regulation 8 – organisation of lifting
operations
◆ Regulation 9 – thorough examination
and inspection
◆ Regulation 10 – reports and defects
◆ Regulation 11 – keeping information
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Working at Height Regulations 2005 (WAHR)
Regulations affecting daily VMHLL operations:
◆ Employer must carry out an assessment of
the task
◆ Employer must plan the task and
communicate to those involved
◆ Tasks must be supervised
◆ Fall prevent or arrest systems must be used
◆ PPE must be used
◆ All work equipment must be inspected, and
defects reported.
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Safety Signs and Signals
Safety signs remind operators of correct behaviours necessary in
the workplace.
◆ Standards for signs reduce risks.
◆ L64: Safety Signs and Signals provides guidance on the
regulations.
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Obstacles or Dangerous Location Signs
(Indicates Risk of Falls or Falling Objects)
◆ Can be black and yellow, or red and white
◆ Used to mark raised edges or zones where things may fall
◆ You may also see warning signs near these floor markings
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Code of Practice for Safe Use of
Cranes BS 7121: 2016
Relevant points regarding safe use of VMHLL:
◆ Selection of equipment
◆ Selection of operators
◆ Positioning the equipment
◆ Proximity hazards
◆ Environmental effects of VMHLL use
◆ Working near power lines
◆ Thorough examination of equipment
◆ Training and certification.
(British Standards Institute guidance on safe crane lifting operations.)
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Operator Safety Code
VMHLLs must:
◆ Never be overloaded
◆ Always be operated safely
◆ Always be handled responsibly, with safety
as a first priority
◆ Never be abused or handled roughly,
including the attachments and lifting tackle
◆ Always be secured against unauthorised
use.
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Manufacturer’s Safety Parameters,
Stability and Safe Operating
Practices
Remember:
◆ Many accidents are caused by unskilled
operators
◆ Accidents range from minor to very
serious, including death
◆ Accidents may also cause damage to
loads, equipment and buildings
◆ You have an important part to play in
operational safety.
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Manufacturer’s Safety Parameters,
Stability and Safe Operating
Practices
◆ Pre-use inspection
◆ Maximum SWL
◆ Maximum boom reach
◆ Rated capacity
◆ Effects of inertia
◆ Effects of live loads
◆ Ground conditions
◆ Working near variations
in height
◆ Drains and manhole
covers
◆ Live electrical cables
◆ Weather conditions
◆ Role of slinger/signaller
◆ Basic slinging
equipment.
What you need to know:
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Communication Signals
A standardised set of signals must be used
when communicating. An accepted set of
signals can be found in L64: Safety Signs and
Signals Regulations (Schedule 1).
Agreement on signals to be used must be
reached between the operator and the signaller.
If either party is unclear on the
signals to be used, the operation
should not begin until understanding
is reached.
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Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE)
◆ Suitable PPE must be worn when
carrying out operations.
◆ You must also wear PPE whenever
training involves operation of the
machine.
◆ All items of PPE must be worn
correctly.
Recommended PPE:
◆ Hard hats
◆ Safety footwear
◆ Hi-visibility clothing
◆ Suitable clothing for extreme
weather conditions
◆ Gloves
◆ Work restraints
◆ Eye protection
◆ Ear protection
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Major Components of the VMHLL
Major components include:
◆ Base
◆ Stabiliser extensions
◆ Stabiliser legs
◆ Slewing mechanism
◆ Column
◆ First boom
◆ Second boom
◆ First boom cylinder
◆ Second boom/jib
◆ Second boom/jib cylinder
◆ Telescopic extension
◆ Extension cylinders
◆ Hydraulic controls
◆ PTO switch
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Major Components of the VMHLL
(Continued)
Major components include:
◆ Throttle controls
◆ Visual warning devices
◆ Audible warning devices
◆ Subframe
◆ Manufacturer’s rated capacity
plate and data plate
◆ Report of thorough
examination label/tag
◆ Roller tracks
◆ Auxiliary engine (where
applicable)
◆ Stabiliser ground support
mats/pads
◆ Transportation safety catches
and locking devices
◆ Emergency stop buttons
◆ Isolator switches.
Choose an attachment
type:
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Mounting and Dismounting the Vehicle
Safe procedure:
◆ Ensure the vehicle is stopped and secured
◆ Use three good, stable points of contact
◆ Always face the cab.
When dismounting:
◆ Adjust the mirrors
◆ Check the door mirror
◆ Make an over-the-shoulder blind spot check
◆ Open the door
◆ Check the floor and environment around (and above) the
vehicle
◆ Dismount.
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Mounting and Dismounting the Lorry Bed /
Platform / Seated Controls
Safe procedure:
◆ Pay attention to vehicle security
◆ Use the correct access points
◆ Use good, secure hand and foot holds
◆ Face the access steps
◆ Make all-round observations of the environment
and floor (including overhead)
◆ Pay attention to access door/floor panel security
◆ Use fall protection system while on the vehicle
bed/platform/at seated controls
◆ Follow guidance in the manufacturer’s operator
manual
◆ Don’t jump down!
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Lorry Loader Controls: Remote Control
◆ Pictorial diagrams
indicating function
◆ Stabiliser controls
◆ Lifting controls
◆ Audible warning control
◆ Remote control battery
and charging station
◆ Battery charging location
◆ Remote control strap
◆ Emergency isolator button
◆ Control speed
◆ Manual override
◆ Remote control display
screen
◆ Pay attention to your
operating position
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Lorry Loader Controls: Ground Controls
◆ Pictorial diagrams indicating function
◆ Stabiliser controls
◆ Lifting controls
◆ Emergency isolator button
◆ Control speed
◆ Position of levers (horizontal/vertical)
◆ Location of control stations
◆ Consider your safety when at the controls
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Lorry Loader Controls: Seated/Platform Controls
◆ Pictorial diagrams indicating function
◆ Stabiliser controls
◆ Lifting controls
◆ Emergency isolator button
◆ Control speed
◆ Adjustment of seat (where applicable)
◆ Location of controls (hand/foot)
◆ Operating position
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Main Components of the Hydraulic System
◆ Hydraulic tank
◆ Filter(s)
◆ Pressure relief valve
◆ Hydraulic hoses
◆ Hydraulic pump
◆ Auxiliary engine (where
applicable)
◆ Single acting rams
◆ Double acting rams
◆ Slewing rams
◆ Hydraulic motor
◆ Control levers
◆ Hydraulic oil
◆ Divert valves
◆ Change-over systems (remote
or manual control)
◆ Engine speed/idle control
systems.
Major components include:
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How the Hydraulic System Works
Flow rate
(approximately 40-50 litres a minute)
Working pressure
(approximately 280 bar / 4100 psi)
Engine speed required
(set to approximately 1000 rpm)
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Activating the PTO/Auxiliary Engine
(Where Applicable)
The correct procedure:
◆ The vehicle must be secure (park brake applied, neutral selected)
◆ Ensure engine is at idle rpm
◆ Check that visual indicators are illuminated
◆ Ensure correct engine rpm for operation is set
◆ Air suspension systems (where applicable) should be off.
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Custody and Vehicle Security
Important points:
Removing the key when the vehicle is not in use
Comply with all company Key custody policies
Consider the consequences of unauthorised vehicle use.
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Hazard Identification
Assess/consider:
Ground conditions (solid and
level ground)
Ground works/underground
services
Weather conditions
Power lines – no closer than
maximum boom length +10 m
(including allowance for load)
Actions to take if the VMHLL
comes into contact with a live
power cable
Overhead obstructions
The route the load will take
Trap hazards/crushing
Vehicle security
Other workers
The general public
Animals
Controlling the environment
PPE usage
Roadway and footpath
obstruction
Recording the assessment
Any other pertinent details in
the environment.
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Deployment of Stabilisers – Using the Vehicle Controls
Key Skills:
◆ Make all-round observations
◆ Adopt a safe working position
◆ Engage the PTO/auxiliary engine
◆ Identify the stabiliser leg controls
◆ Activate the hydraulic system
(where applicable)
◆ Always use controls smoothly and
sympathetically
◆ Release safety catches, retaining
pins, relief valves, etc.
◆ Remember handling techniques
when manually extending legs
◆ Place spreader mats
◆ Shut down the equipment.
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Using the Remote Control
Key skills:
◆ Adjust the remote control strap
◆ Use the remote control strap at all times
◆ Make all-round observations
◆ Adopt a safe position
◆ Use all controls smoothly and sympathetically
◆ Use the ID button correctly
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Using the Remote Control
(Continued)
Key skills:
◆ Remember what to do when the system
automatically reactivates
◆ Isolate the remote control when not in use
◆ Use the umbilical cord when
communication with the radio receiver has
been lost
◆ Remember how to remove the battery to
place on charge.
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Siting the Machine
Key points:
Correctly secure the VMHLL
When VMHLL is fitted to an
articulated vehicle trailer, the
prime mover should remain
coupled to aid stability
Use correct handling techniques
for manual deployment
Correctly locate spreader mats
Ensure trailer landing legs are
lowered, if applicable
Secure lifting area with cones or
barriers
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Siting the Machine
(Continued)
Key points:
◆ Start the vehicle
◆ Activate PTO system
◆ Activate working lights/obstruction beacons
◆ Release safety catches, retaining pins, release
valves etc. on the stabilizer legs
◆ Position yourself clear of the stabilisers with an
unobstructed view of the legs
◆ Use spreader mats correctly
◆ Use appropriate controls to fully deploy
stabilisers
◆ Ensure the vehicle’s weight is supported by each
stabiliser when raised
◆ Check the top of each leg to ensure contact
with the housing and minimise movement
◆ Make all-round observations of the
environment whilst operating controls.
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Preparing the VMHLL for Transportation
Key skills:
◆ Follow the stowing advice in the
operator manual
◆ Ensure the lorry loader is in ‘stowed’ or
‘parked’ position before stowing
◆ Use correct manual handling
techniques
◆ Ensure detachable stabilisers are
stowed correctly
◆ Make all-round observation whilst
operating controls
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Preparing the VMHLL for Transportation
Key skills:
◆ Follow the correct sequence and use the
appropriate controls to stow the stabilisers
◆ Correctly stow the spreader mats
◆ Isolate the controls after use
◆ Safely remove and stow all segregation
materials
◆ Deactivate the PTO.
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Operation of the Controls
Key skills:
Position yourself to maintain a safe,
clear view of the boom
Stay safe by switching sides of vehicle
to use controls (where applicable)
Be aware of hazards when working at
height, and use fall protection systems
Be aware of surroundings and don’t
just focus on the VMHLL
Make all-round observations of the
environment, including the floor and
overhead
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Operation of the Controls
(Continued)
Key skills:
Release the safety transportation locks
Unfold and deploy the boom in the correct sequence
(when using hook attachment)
Use controls sympathetically
Consider how operating range affects your operation
Consider the most direct cycle of operation when
positioning the lorry loader
Safely reposition and secure rolling base VMHLL
along the trailer body (where applicable)
Accurately position the attachment over a specified
point (e.g. centre of gravity of a load)
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Operation of the Controls
(Continued)
Key skills:
Fold and stow the boom using the correct sequence (where
applicable)
Return rolling base VMHLL to the correct transport position
Make security checks for safe transportation
Engage transportation locks where applicable
Maintain awareness of stability risks, including weather and
ground conditions.
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What is a Pre-use Inspection?
A pre-use inspection is:
A visual inspection combined with a functional check of all
necessary systems before use
Fundamental to the safe operation of the equipment
A regulatory responsibility: operators must inspect equipment
before use.
Operators must
never
attempt repairs themselves.
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System of Checking
Bear in mind:
◆ For our purposes most checks will be to the VMHLL equipment
◆ However, we will check some vehicle components that impact on VMHLL operation
◆ Full vehicle inspection is a separate process and should be completed by the driver.
Always:
◆ Wear appropriate PPE
◆ Follow the manufacturer’s
equipment recommendations.
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What Should Be Checked?
Checks should include:
◆ Fuel level (vehicle/auxiliary unit)
◆ Oil and coolant (vehicle/auxiliary unit)
◆ Working lights
◆ Audible/visual warnings
◆ PTO system
◆ Vehicle chassis
◆ Vehicle wheels and tyres
◆ Vehicle parking brake
◆ Vehicle load bed
◆ Hydraulic system
◆ Stabiliser arms
◆ Stabiliser legs…
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What Should Be Checked?
(Continued)
Checks should include:
◆ Crane base
◆ Crane column
◆ Controls
◆ Crane boom(s)
◆ Hydraulic operation
◆ Lifting attachment (hook/clamshell/hydraulic
clamp/pallet forks)
◆ Report of thorough examination
◆ Rated capacity plate
◆ Rated capacity indicator
◆ Decals and warning labels
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Pre-use Inspection – Fault Reporting
Remember:
◆ A report (either written or electronic) must
always be made of the inspection, regardless of whether defects are identified.
If defects are identified:
◆ Do not use the equipment
◆ Log the fault and complete the inspection
◆ Isolate the equipment and mark it ‘out of service’
◆ Inform a manager or supervisor of the defect.
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Fault Reporting
If faults are identified during operation:
Safely shut down the VMHLL
Isolate the equipment from use and
mark it ‘out of service’
Inform a manager or supervisor of
the defect.
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Carrying Out a Precision (Test) Lift
◆ Position the hook over the load’s
centre of gravity
◆ Be clear on slinging roles and
responsibilities
◆ Select correct equipment for the task,
and follow appropriate slinging
methods for the load being transported
◆ Ensure the sling is attached to the
hook correctly
◆ Carry out all-round checks
◆ Raise the load to approx. 100mm-
150mm from the ground
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Carrying Out a Precision (Test) Lift
(Continued)
◆ Check the load is level and secure
◆ Check the load is clear of the ground
◆ Check orientation of sling hooks
◆ Check all lifting accessories are
secure, and free from slipping and
chafing
◆ Check stabiliser leg condition
◆ Check ground conditions
◆ Check VMHLL superstructure
condition
◆ Check rated capacity indicator
◆ Take action if the precision (test) lift
is not satisfactory
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Load Movement
◆ Transport the load as low as is practicable
◆ Loads should not be lifted over pedestrians or moving
vehicles
◆ The load is not to be lifted over the vehicle cab
◆ Maintain good situational awareness
◆ Position yourself safely
◆ Work with your banksman/signaller
◆ Make observations before and during the lift
◆ Select an appropriate speed and use the controls
sympathetically
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Load Movement (Continued)
◆ Pay attention to ground and
environmental conditions
◆ Control speed to control load swing
◆ Safely and accurately deposit the load
◆ Safely remove the lifting accessories
and stow the lifting equipment.
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Use of a Clamshell Attachment
This is a hydraulic component
It consists of a top frame and two
bucket halves
It is used to gather and lift loose media
(i.e. soil, gravel, sand, etc.)
The bucket halves work in unison
A clamshell is NOT a digger
The VMHLL rated capacity is usually
de-rated when a clamshell is used
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Operating the Attachment, Unladen,
Using the VMHLL Controls
Remember:
Familiarise yourself with the controls and use them
smoothly and sympathetically
Always carry out all-round observations
Position yourself for safe operation
Maintain situational awareness
Return to transport position and secure the clamshell
after operations are complete.
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Operating the Attachment, Laden,
Using the VMHLL Controls
Always:
◆ Check the load
◆ Check the deposit location
◆ Use the controls smoothly and
sympathetically
◆ Maintain situational awareness
◆ Be aware of the effects of
weather conditions
◆ Check for hazards on any ground
level pick-up location.
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Use of a Hydraulic Clamp Attachment
This is a hydraulic component
It consists of a top frame and two clamp arms
It is used to load/offload packs of bricks or blocks that are not
loaded onto pallets
It lifts by use of clamping pressure on the bottom row of bricks
or blocks
The VMHLL’s rated capacity is usually de-rated when a
hydraulic clamp is used
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Operating the Attachment, Unladen,
Using the VMHLL Controls
◆ Remember:
◆ Familiarise yourself with the controls and use them smoothly
and sympathetically
◆ Always carry out all-round observations
◆ Position yourself for safe operations
◆ Correctly stow and secure the clamp after operations are
complete
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Operating the Attachment, Laden,
Using the VMHLL Controls
Always:
Check the load
Check the deposit location
Use the controls smoothly and sympathetically
Maintain a high level of situational awareness.
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Use of a Pallet Fork Attachment
This is a hydraulic component
It consists of a vertical A-frame and two pallet forks
It is inserted under a standard pallet to lift, transport and
deposit palletised loads
The VMHLL’s rated capacity is usually de-rated when a pallet
fork is used
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Operating the Attachment, Unladen,
Using the VMHLL Controls
Familiarise yourself with the controls and use them
smoothly and sympathetically
Always carry out all-round observations
Position yourself for safe operations
Maintain situational awareness
Stow and secure the equipment properly once operations
are complete.
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Operating the Attachment, Unladen,
Using the VMHLL Controls
Always:
Check the load
Check the deposit location
Consider the weather conditions
and the effect they may have on
the operation
Use controls smoothly and
sympathetically
Maintain a high level of
situational awareness.
