CPCS A17C Telescopic Handler (Telehandler) : All Sizes Excluding Slew

Course Overview

The CPCS A17C Telescopic Handler (Telehandler): All Sizes (Excluding Slew) course provides operators with the essential knowledge and practical skills to safely operate a telescopic handler for lifting, travelling and placing a wide range of loads. Training covers machine preparation, pre‑operational checks, safe manoeuvring on varied terrain, correct lifting procedures, the use of load charts, load centres and hydraulic controls, as well as configuring the machine for different tasks and attachment types.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

• Apply health, safety and legislative requirements relevant to telescopic handler (Telehandler) operations, including hazard identification, safe working practices and effective communication on site.
• Identify and interpret key information from the operator’s manual, load charts, lift plans and other documentation.
• Recognise and explain major machine components, controls and safety systems, including ROPS/FOPS, stability aids (RCI/LMI/LMC), steering modes and hydraulic functions.
• Carry out thorough pre‑operational checks in line with manufacturer and regulatory requirements, and follow correct defect‑reporting procedures.
• Select and use appropriate PPE, and safely access and egress the machine.
• Prepare the machine for travel, adjusting visibility aids, restraints and controls correctly.
• Travel and manoeuvre safely over various terrains and inclines, both laden and unladen, while maintaining stability and awareness of surroundings
• Assess work areas including ground conditions, exclusion zones, lighting requirements and proximity hazards.
• Configure the machine for lifting tasks, using correct hydraulic techniques, fork positioning, stabilisers and levelling systems.
• Lift, transfer, place and stack a range of loads safely and accurately, including palleted, non‑palleted, wide and uneven loads.
• Load and unload vehicles using correct sequences, communication methods and hazard checks.
• Fit, secure and remove attachments, including the safe use of quick‑hitch systems.
• Operate with environmental responsibility, reducing emissions, preventing pollution and managing spills and waste correctly.
• Prepare the machine for transport, following safe loading/unloading procedures and communication protocols.
• Shut down, isolate and secure the machine correctly to prevent unauthorised use and ensure site safety.

Pre-requisites

• Novice: The candidate does not hold a current industry recognised card within the plant category and/or has limited or no demonstrable practical experience of operating the category of plant in a construction environment. Experience of working on site and a basic knowledge of construction terminology would be beneficial.
• Experienced: The candidate holds a current industry recognised red card within the plant category or has equivalent experience. The trainer must decide and be able to demonstrate a thorough initial assessment and document their decisions for choosing the experienced route based on the candidate s knowledge and skills through a documented profiling approach.

Assessment Methods

For the successful completion of training, candidates must complete an end of course practical assessment and knowledge test that has a clear pass or fail criteria as set out by the CPCS scheme.

Additional Information

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, in good physical health, and capable of meeting the demands of practical training. An adequate level of English literacy is also required to fully engage with the course content and assessments. This course can also be offered as an in-house COTS Certification.