A new association, the Telescopic Handler Association of Australia (TSHA) has been formed.

Believed to be a world first, the Telescopic Handler Association of Australia (TSHA) has been formed to manage all aspects of the telescopic handler, including compliance and safety issues.

Stuart Walker, managing director of Manitou Australia, has been elected as inaugural president of the association, which is a separate division of the Elevating Work Platform Association (EWPA).

"Because telehandlers are such versatile tools, it is vital end-users are educated in their safe and efficient use and it is equally important the industry monitors safety standards," says Walker.

Objectives of the TSHA include:
• To be the principal reference for lifting and materials handling in the Australian community;
• To gain recognition and educate Australian industry in the safe and effective use of the telescopic handler concept;
• To provide the tools to develop and educate industry in the safe and effective use of the telescopic handler in the interests of improving safety and productivity in the workplace;
• To be the resource for industry, construction and agricultural industries in the safe use and maintenance of telescopic handlers in Australia;
• To represent member interests in the pursuit of a self-regulated, safe and unified telescopic handler industry throughout Australia.

A new TSHA website has been launched featuring current information on telehandlers as well as recent meeting notes from the TSHA.