Pushing and pulling objects on trolleys and trucks β Reference Guide
Scope: objects only. This guidance covers the handling of inanimate objects, materials and loads.
Pushing and pulling objects are manual handling operations. Wheels can remove a carry while leaving substantial starting, steering or stopping effort. Rated load capacity alone does not show that an operation is suitable.
Factors that affect effort and control
Load visibility and stability, equipment condition, handle position and route conditions all affect a push or pull task.- Starting and stopping often require more effort than keeping a sound load moving on a suitable level surface.
- Distance, speed, repeated trips and insufficient recovery increase demands.
- Damaged or stiff castors, small wheels, rough floors, thresholds and gradients can increase effort or make control difficult.
- Low or poorly positioned handles can cause awkward postures. Comfortable hand positions are generally between hip and shoulder height, with suitability depending on the person and equipment.
- High or unstable stacking can block the view or increase tipping risk.
- Doors, corners, pedestrians and restricted space can force sudden movement or twisting.
Route and load arrangements
A suitable route has adequate width and clearance, appropriate surfaces and managed interaction with doors and other people. Load arrangement affects stability, visibility and grip. A shorter route is not necessarily safer when it includes stairs, slopes or congestion. Pressure to meet a deadline does not reduce these hazards.
The method must follow equipment instructions and the local assessment. Neither pushing nor pulling is universally preferable for every device and route. A sticking wheel or unexpectedly high force is a reason to stop and resolve the cause rather than add force or another worker.
Pallet-truck limitations
Small-wheel pallet trucks can be particularly difficult on rough floors and slopes. HSE cautions that the RAPP tool may underestimate some risks in these circumstances; the actual route and operating effort remain important.
Sources: HSE pushing and pulling overview and pushing and pulling risk factors.
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