Pushing & Pulling — Trolleys, Hand Trucks & Barrows

Talking Points

1. 1 Load trolleys and hand trucks within their rated capacity — check the plate
2. 2 Before pushing: clear the path — uneven ground, steps, slopes all dramatically increase injury risk
3. 3 Use long sweeping pushes on wheels — avoid jerky, side-to-side forces
4. 4 Keep the load close to your body — the further forward the load, the more force on your lower back
5. 5 Avoid pushing above shoulder height — use a hoist or team lift for overhead loads
6. 6 If a wheel is seized or damaged — do not force it — repair or replace before use
7. 7 On slopes: always have a spotter behind the load, never load goes downhill first
8. 8 When stopping: slow down gradually — do not run into a wall or stop abruptly, this jars the spine

Control Measures

• Wheeled equipment inspected before each use — wheels, handles, axles
• Rated load displayed on all trolleys and hand trucks
• Routes maintained — ground levelled, debris cleared before work begins
• Mechanical aids (electric pallet jack, forklift) used for heavy or frequent loads
• Slope limits established for wheelbarrow and trolley use — steep slopes require motorised transport