Telehandlers for Mining Sites: Specific Considerations & Modifications
Telehandlers have long been a staple in construction and agriculture—but their growing role in mining sites across Australia is changing the way heavy lifting and materials handling is done underground, on haul roads, and at remote processing facilities.
Have you ever tried to get a crane or traditional forklift onto a remote mine site? The logistical headache alone can slow down operations. Telehandlers, with the right modifications, offer a powerful, flexible alternative that’s built for tough environments.
Why Telehandlers Make Sense in Mining Environments
Mining operations face some of the harshest conditions in Australia—from the red dust of the Pilbara to the deep humidity of underground coal mines. Equipment needs to be:
- Rugged and reliable
- Easy to transport and maintain
- Capable of working on uneven or loose ground
- Versatile enough for multiple tasks
That’s why telehandlers, when properly modified, are increasingly used for:
- Materials delivery
- Equipment maintenance and servicing
- Infrastructure installation
- Emergency access
“Can Telehandlers Be Used on Mining Sites?”
Yes, telehandlers are widely used on mining sites when modified for extreme terrain, safety compliance, and specialised lifting tasks.
They offer flexibility, mobility, and reliability for routine maintenance, part transport, and infrastructure setup in remote, rugged areas.
Key Use Cases for Telehandlers in Mining
1. Mobile Maintenance and Tool Transport
- Move components, spares, and tooling between workshops and equipment in the field
- Use pallet forks, tool cages, or enclosed boxes for protection
2. Lifting for Equipment Servicing
- Attach lifting hooks or jibs to position pumps, motors, and gearboxes
- Ideal for underground repair work or field-based diagnostics
3. Infrastructure Assembly and Civil Support
- Support scaffolding, pipe installation, and concrete placement with buckets or man platforms
- Assist in building workshops, shelters, and fences
4. Emergency Access and Recovery
- Clear debris, deliver emergency gear, or assist with minor recovery ops
Required Modifications for Mining Telehandlers
To meet mining compliance and survive rugged use, telehandlers must be upgraded beyond standard configurations:
✔ Heavy-Duty Air Filtration
- Prevents dust ingress into engines and cabins
- Extends engine and filter life
✔ Fire Suppression Systems
- Automated extinguishers in engine bays for fire-prone areas
✔ Positive Pressure Cabs
- Filters harmful dust and maintains clean air for operators
✔ External Lighting & Beacons
- LED work lights, reversing lights, and strobes for visibility underground or in low-light
✔ Tyre and Axle Protection
- Armoured undercarriage plates and reinforced axles for rocky terrain
✔ Emergency Stop & Lockout Systems
- Required for compliance with most Australian mining site protocols
Operator Safety Considerations
Mining sites demand heightened operator training and procedural safety. Your telehandler operators must:
- Be VOC-certified (Verification of Competency)
- Know site-specific access and emergency protocols
- Understand safe use of attachments in confined or unstable areas
Joystick-controlled telehandlers are especially valued for their precision in tight spaces—making them ideal for underground or plant work.
Maintenance and Servicing Requirements
Mining accelerates wear and tear. Telehandlers in this environment must be serviced more frequently to avoid breakdowns. Focus on:
- Hydraulic system integrity
- Boom wear and pin inspections
- Air intake system cleaning
- Tyre and brake checks
Working with a supplier like Dieci Australia ensures quick access to telehandler parts and servicing across remote locations. Their support teams are experienced with mine-compliant machines and rugged operations.
Why Choose Dieci Telehandlers for Mining?
Dieci’s mining-ready machines are designed to perform in some of Australia’s harshest conditions. They’re trusted across iron ore, coal, gold, and lithium operations.
Benefits include:
- Machines pre-configured for mine spec
- Joystick control for enhanced safety and efficiency
- Strong national support and servicing
- Compatible with high-strength attachments for mining tasks
Final Thoughts: The Right Tool for the Toughest Jobs
What if your lifting equipment could handle the demands of mining—without the cost or complexity of cranes and forklifts?
A well-equipped telehandler offers unmatched versatility and safety for materials handling in mining. And when paired with the right attachments, servicing, and training, it becomes an asset that drives uptime and productivity.
Looking for a mine-ready telehandler? Speak with Dieci Australia for advice on telehandlers built for mining, including servicing, upgrades, and support across Australia’s toughest sites.
