Introduction Guidelines > Employee Employer Evacuation First Aid Legislation Reporting Injuries Resources Deskwork > Boxes Checking out Discharging Shelves > Compactus Moving books Shelving Shelf reading Sorting books Trolleys Other tasks > Exercises Lifting Moving collections Moving other objects Newspapers Posture Planning a move Slide it Stocktake Varying tasks Index

Trolleys

Trolleys are one of the most important pieces of equipment we have, but trolleys that are overloaded, not maintained adequately, or used for tasks that they are not designed for can create problems.

Main points when using trolleys

When loading a trolley only lift and handle a comfortable number of books.

In the case of very large books, handle only one or two books at a time.

Use your legs, not your back, when lifting books from a lower/higher position on the trolley.

Do not twist as you are lifting, stand upright, turn with your feet to place the books on the trolley.

Don’t pack or force the books in too tight on the trolley.

Follow the points above when unloading a trolley.

You should try to only load one row of books on a trolley top. This eliminates bending and ensures the trolley is easier to push and handle.

Loading books on the second shelf should be avoided where possible.

Never load anything on the bottom shelf.

If a trolley tips because of some unforeseen factor, let it go and get out of the way and don’t try and save it.

Moving trolleys

The correct way of pushing a trolley is to get the power from your legs and from your body weight. Stand square to the trolley to enable you to have a balanced push. Keep your wrists straight.

For better control of the trolley and its load, push the trolley with the heavy end toward you as above.

Don’t pull the trolley. When pulling a trolley you cannot see where you are going.

Don’t twist and pull or push from the side.

Both actions put considerable strain on the back.

If it is unavoidable and you have to pull the trolley instead of pushing: keep your back straight, pull in a straight line and do not twist your body. Only pull the trolley a little way, then get behind the trolley and push.

When moving a trolley avoid jerky or sudden movements which are hard on the body.

Speed should be kept under control, especially around corners as the load could become unstable and there is the possibility of colliding with a person or another trolley.

Trolley Maintenance

Proper maintenance of trolleys is essential to keep them moving and to minimise any risks.
Trolley's that need maintenance or repair should be reported to your branch manager.