---
title: Material Handling- Hand Truck Safety - CCS Construction Staffing
description: "Hand trucks are effective for reducing strain while moving heavy materials. However, injury can still occur. Use the following tips to prevent strains, trips and falls when using a hand truck. Lifting practices: Load and unload the hand truck carefully, following proper lifting technique. Always keep your back straight while lifting. Get help if the… Read More »"
---

[CCS Blog](https://blog.staffccs.com/blog)

# [Material Handling- Hand Truck Safety - CCS Construction Staffing](https://blog.staffccs.com/blog/2017/09/20/material-handling-hand-truck-safety)

 Written by [matttelmanik](https://blog.staffccs.com/blog/author/matttelmanik) | Sep 20, 2017 1:56:42 PM

Hand trucks are effective for reducing strain while moving heavy materials. However, injury can still occur. Use the following tips to prevent strains, trips and falls when using a hand truck.

**Lifting practices:**

- Load and unload the hand truck carefully, following proper lifting technique.

- Always keep your back straight while lifting.

- Get help if the load is too bulky for proper lifting techniques to work or if the load cannot be handled safely for any reason.

**Before moving a load:**

- Prepare the path.

- - Inspect and clear your path for ease of movement.
    - Use ramps if the path has stairs or curbs.
    - Measure openings to be sure that there is enough space.
    - Clear the set point.

- Ensure that you have a good view of your path. The load should not be so tall that it obscures your vision.
- Put the heaviest part of the load on the bottom of the hand truck.

- Secure the load as needed, and ensure that the straps are tight.
- Inspect equipment before use.
- Check the tire pressure. Balloon-type tires are more prone to losing pressure, adding strain on the person pushing the hand truck.

**Using the hand truck:**

- Grip the hand truck firmly. Push with a straight back, leaning into your walk.
- Walk forwards, unless you are trapped in a tight space.
- Push or pull loads with both hands.
- Tilting the truck back enables you to push the load uphill more easily, but be aware that this action increases the overall weight that you are carrying.

**General safety:**

- Ensure that you are trained and authorized for work.
- Wear supportive, closed toe, and non-slip shoes.

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