Carts, Hand Trucks, & Pallet Jacks

Carts, hand trucks, and pallet jacks are wheeled devices designed to transport and carry materials. Their advantages are that they reduce lifting, pushing, and pulling forces; allow heavy or awkward materials, tools, or equipment to be moved without having to be carried by hand; and save time. Hand trucks and carts are available in many shapes and sizes that can be customized for special applications.

In order to use carts, hand trucks, and pallet jacks effectively and to maximize their ergonomic benefits, keep the following points in mind:

• Motorized pallet jacks are preferred for moving materials frequently or long distances.
• To minimize push and pull forces, the wheels should be suited to the floor conditions, including cracks, tracks, moldings and other obstructions.
• Larger diameter wheels may improve cart maneuvering.
• Carts that have swivel wheels on the rear and fixed wheels on the front are easier to push for longer distances.
• Carts with swivel wheels on both the front and rear are easier to maneuver in small, cramped areas.
• Handles should be located at the rear of the cart and at waist level.
• The height of the load on the cart should not obstruct vision.
• Pushing is ergonomically preferred to pulling.
• Loads should be balanced, and the load weight kept under the manufacturer's recommended weight limits.

To learn more about Ergonomics visit our Shipyard Ergonomics Online Training web page.