Take steps to ensure safe use of wheelbarrows and wagons. The most important guide to safety is common sense. Use it well.
Loaded Questions
Wheelbarrows and garden carts lend a helping hand if used properly. Safe use of wheelbarrows and wagons includes these suggestions:
- Physical Limitations: Resist the tendency to overload wagons and wheelbarrows. Keep loads small and safe.
- Balance: Steering wheelbarrows can be tricky. Loads should be balanced over the wheel for maximum control. Although unbalanced wagons are safe on flat surfaces, inclines make the tilted load dangerous.
- Materials: Safe use includes selecting safe loads. Smaller, compact items such as fertilizers fit well. Longer items such as wood planks or sheets are best moved with other methods.
On a Roll
Once wheelbarrows or wagons get moving, safety becomes dynamic. Keep in mind the above safety guidelines, and pay attention to these additional safety rules:
- Proper Lifting: When raising wheelbarrow handles, lift with your knees, not with your back.
- Motion Control: Smoothly move wagons and wheelbarrows. Avoid sudden jerks or pushes to limit the risk of loosing control of the vehicle. Keep movement slow and steady.
- Spills: Some spills cannot be avoided. If you lose control of wagons or wheelbarrows, alert others, let go of the handles, and get clear of the vehicle.
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