Truss booms offer a means to move suspended loads and are primarily used to set trusses, frames, and beams for wood and steel building construction. Available with or without a winch, the booms come in different sizes and provide the operator with extra reach capabilities without requiring a larger machine.

Suspended loads also can be handled with a lifting hook. The hook slips onto the carriage forks, adding versatility to the carriage and allowing operators to lift awkward objects, like septic tanks and generators without removing the carriage.

Finally, personal work platforms extend the capabilities of the telehandler and improve job site efficiency and productivity by lifting material and persons to working heights when there is no safer alternative. The fork-mounted attachment can move brick layers and mortar from one level of scaffolding to the next, lift inspectors for roof inspections, elevate electricians and spools of cable to transformers, and lift maintenance workers to replace parking lot lights.

To gain the full benefit of each of these attachments, operators are advised to answer the questions originally posed in this article and review the load chart that accompanies each piece of equipment. In addition, it makes sense to consult with the local rental store or telehandler dealer to ensure the best match of attachment to the defined scope of work. By taking these simple steps, operators will more fully appreciate the versatility of the telehandler as a job site work tool, and its ability to meet a wide variety of jobs faster and with greater ease.