Hand Truck Operation

• When loading hand trucks, keep your feet clear of the wheels

• Do not exceed the manufacturer's load rated capacity; read the capacity plate on the hand truck if you are unsure

• Place the load so that it will not slip, shift or fall; use the straps, if they are provided, to secure the load

• For extremely bulky or pressurized items such as gas cylinders, strap or chain the items to the hand truck

• Tip the load slightly forward so that the tongue of the hand truck goes under the load

• Push the tongue of the hand truck all the way under the load that is to be moved

• Keep the center of gravity of the load as low as possible by placing heavier objects below the lighter objects

• Push the load so that the weight will be carried by the axle and not the handles

• If your view is obstructed, ask a spotter to assist in guiding the load

• Do not walk backward with the hand truck, unless going up stairs or ramps

• When going down an incline, keep the hand truck in front of you so that it can be controlled at all times

• Move hand trucks at a walking pace

• Store hand trucks with the tongue under a pallet, shelf, or table