An operator is attempting to lift a 1,500 kg pallet of drywall to a height of 10 metres. The Load Moment Indicator (LMI) displays a green light, indicating a safe lift, but the load chart for the specific telehandler model shows that at a 10-metre height and the necessary forward reach of 4 metres, the maximum capacity is 1,200 kg. What should the operator do?

Question: An operator is attempting to lift a 1,500 kg pallet of drywall to a height of 10 metres. The Load Moment Indicator (LMI) displays a green light, indicating a safe lift, but the load chart for the specific telehandler model shows that at a 10-metre height and the necessary forward reach of 4 metres, the maximum capacity is 1,200 kg. What should the operator do?

Answer options:

• Trust the LMI's green light and proceed, as it's an electronic system. ✅ Follow the load chart's limits, as it is the primary reference.
• Add counterweights to the telehandler to increase its capacity.
• Try to complete the lift quickly to minimize risk.

Correct answer: Follow the load chart's limits, as it is the primary reference.

Explanation: The load chart is the ultimate authority for safe operating limits for any given telehandler configuration and load position. While an LMI is a critical safety system, discrepancies should always defer to the more restrictive limit shown on the load chart, as the LMI might have a malfunction or calibration issue. Adding unauthorized counterweights is extremely dangerous and altering the machine from its design. Attempting a quick lift with an overload condition is also unsafe.