Print a Sign-In Sheet | Spanish Version
Wheelbarrows don’t have any moving parts or sharp edges and are easy to use, but they can cause serious injuries. Anytime you balance a heavy load on a single wheel, you have to pay attention to what you’re doing.
Because there’s no top to a wheelbarrow, you may think you can keep loading it as long as the material doesn’t fall out, but overloading a wheelbarrow is a sure way to lose control of it. Use the following tips to stay safe while using a wheelbarrow:
- Make sure to only put in a wheelbarrow the amount of weight you can physically handle on a hill or when turning a corner.
- Make several trips for large loads. Don’t try to carry it all at once.
- When you raise and lower the handles of a wheelbarrow, treat them like any other heavy load you lift. Follow proper lifting techniques.
- Balance the load over the wheel for good control.
- Don’t move too quickly.
- Keep a tight grip on the handles.
- If you lose control of a wheelbarrow, let go of the handles and warn others.
- Avoid trying to move such things as planks with a wheelbarrow. Use a hand truck for long or awkward loads.
- Keep wheelbarrow wheels properly lubricated.
- Store wheelbarrows out of the way of aisles, stairways, and emergency equipment.
KEMI does not assume liability for the content of information contained herein. Safety and health remain your responsibility. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and not intended to be exhaustive or a substitute for proper training, supervision or manufacturers’ instructions/recommendations. KEMI, by publication of this information, does not assume liability for damage or injury arising from reliance upon it. Compliance with this information is not a guarantee or warranty that you will be in conformity with any laws or regulations nor does it ensure the absolute safety of any person, place or object, including, but not limited to, you, your occupation, employees, customers or place of business.
