One of the tools that makes our lives easier are our rock carts. They help us move sheets more quickly, efficiently, and in larger numbers than we could manage by hand. However, if used incorrectly, our rock carts can pose a hazard. Being struck by a loaded cart or maybe pinned between a loaded cart and another object, there is a chance for injury. To reduce the likelihood of this type of injury, please follow these principles:
1. Rock carts should be loaded on level surfaces. Do not use rock carts in areas with significant damage to the floors.
2. Make sure that the rock cart you are using is in good shape. Do not use a cart that is damaged or missing parts.
3. If a cart begins to tip over, do not try to catch it. Do your best to get out of the way. Trying to catch a tipping cart will only increase your odds of getting hurt.
Do not overload carts. A rock cart is only built to handle a certain number of sheets. Going past this number will increase the chances of a tip-over and injury. To help our crews follow these limits, stickers with the maximum sheet capacity will soon be placed on each rock cart. See the picture below for what these stickers will look like. We will be passing them out at our job sites over the next few weeks. Each rock cart will need a sticker based on the cart’s size.
Safely using our rock carts will make our job sites safer and more productive.