Account
(517) 680-7950
When the real effects of work-related injuries started to become clear, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) stepped up to focus on the problem for good reason. According to the National Safety Council, 2018 saw 282,860 employees injured from lifting, pulling and pushing, carrying, and holding.
Time away from work from overexertion injuries affects productivity. It also has a tremendous impact on profitability due to worker’s compensation claims. Fortunately, these monetary and physical risks can be minimized by understanding proper ergonomics. Especially in regards to the casters you put on your carts.
One of the most challenging and common push/pull issues arise on carts with capacities of 1000-2000 pounds. Carts of this size and capacity are found in a variety of manufacturing settings, especially in automobile assembly facilities — like this big three powertrain facility that was experiencing push/pull injuries with their 1,000 lb. carts: https://www.casterconcepts.com/twergo-casters-helps-company-recoup-more-than-60000-by-reducing-workers-compensation-costs/
| TIP: When choosing the proper caster for push/pull considerations, watch for these two common application errors:
The first is an undersized caster rig. A caster with a too small or inconsistent swivel section will progressively become more difficult to push. It’s also important not to get a swivel lead that is too small. A good suggestion is that using a caster with any pushing or pulling required should have at least a 2 1/2″ swivel lead. |
Polyurethane wheels are often your best choice when it comes to ergonomics. They offer less resistance than other wheels, which reduces push force. Adding a long swivel lead on the rig also makes it easier to turn or start rolling, even when the wheels aren’t parallel. Here are some other ergonomic tips to think about to get you rolling.
Good ergonomics profit your company in more ways than one. Healthy employees are the organization’s most valuable assets. Reducing overexertion and other types of injuries lead to better productivity, profitability, and better overall performance for your organization.
Looking for ways to roll with more profitability and productivity? Then give Caster Concepts a call.
