Regulatory authority WorkSafe Victoria says its inspectors will take action against companies that use inadequately designed telehandlers as mobile cranes.

Telehandlers, also known as multipurpose handlers, tool carriers, telescopic forklifts and cranes, were being used to lift freely suspended loads although they were not designed for the purpose, WorkSafe said.

Worksites that use telehandlers to lift freely suspended loads must have written confirmation that the machines comply with Australian Standard 1418.5 or an equivalent standard.

WorkSafe said European Standard 1459 was not an equivalent standard for the application.

Information on telehandler safety, including technical information on stability, handling of particular load types and design standards, is available in a WorkSafe guidance note, Telehandler used as mobile cranes, at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/vwa/alerts.nsf/GuideInter.