Hi All,

Another RIDDOR query we had a telehandler tip 90 degrees forward in the direction of the boom i.e. and landed on its front edge supported by the front boom/forks on the floor. The telehandler then had to be manipulated to get it back onto four wheels. I think there was a real risk of harm here and under the spirit of the legislation should be reported as a DO. However there is an argument that the telehandle did not actually overturn on it side or its roof  so not RIDDOR. 

Thoughts anyone

A quick search of the web would indicate that the majority of definitions of 'overturn' would include something on its side, not just on its roof. The potential for injury with something like a telehandler on its side would say to me that it should be reported. A family friend was recently involved in such an incident. He was damned lucky to get away with relatively minor injuries.

I would suggest the semantics of "overturn" are nul and void.

You have ended up with a telehandler tipped in to a position I suspect you will not find documented in the manufacturer operating instruction i.e. beyond intended and foreseen design.

You have descibed an unforseen incident which if one further item e.g. the ground condition the forks and boom were resting upon were different it could have had an entirely different outcome.

The additional description of manipulation to land the vehicle back on to four wheels adds to this being a reportable incident from which there may be lessons for wider communication - let the HSE decide.