When a material handling device is being utilized to unload a truck, it is usually best to place the material to be moved at the door of the truck before placing it onto the handcart. Do not lower a loaded hand truck from the vehicle to the ground. The use of a hand truck or cart to move material from the vehicle directly to a loading dock is acceptable and encouraged. Closed Doors When attempting to pass through a doorway with a loaded hand truck, wheel the hand truck to the side of the door and then open the door with a free hand. Pull the hand truck through the door.
Ladders Use appropriate equipment to reach items resting on platforms or shelves.
Do not stand upon chairs or boxes. A rolling stairway with platform working surfaces, hand rails, and retracting rollers is recommended. When using a ladder, do not over-reach. Move the ladder closer to the load. Slips and Falls Slips and falls account for a large percentage of lower back injuries and related fatalities.