Construction workers depend on hand trucks, wheelbarrows, and carts to do their job on construction sites. If such devices do not work correctly, are stored incorrectly, or cannot withstand the load, the employer is responsible for the costs of a worksite injury. If you get injured by such devices while working on construction sites and need construction accident help, contact an accident lawyer.
Construction injuries from hand trucks, wheelbarrows, and other hand-propelled vehicles
Hand trucks, wheelbarrows, and other hand-propelled vehicles are common tools used in construction for moving heavy materials and equipment. While they are designed to make lifting and to transport more accessible, they can also pose a risk of injury if not used properly.
The labor law states that site owners or contractors should make every construction site as safe as possible. The department of labor created construction safety rules concerning hand-propelled vehicles. The hand-propelled vehicles have to adhere to specific safety standards, which include the following:
- Maintenance
It is vital to maintain hand-propelled vehicles operated on the job site regularly and repaired. Vehicles cannot be used if they have damaged handles or loose parts.
- Wheels and handles
The wheels of hand-propelled vehicles should be well maintained, free-running, and properly secured to the vehicle frames. Buggy handles should not be extended beyond the vehicle’s wheel on either side.
- Counterbalance
The counterbalance weights must be attached securely to the buggy handles. Buggy handles should not contain loose weights for counterbalances.
- Drumming
If the hand-propelled vehicles are used to dumb debris or material, at least six inches of curbing height should be provided along the edges to prevent injuries.
- Storage
The hand-propelled devices must be kept away from work areas or passageways when not in use.
Some common injuries associated with this equipment include:
- Strains and sprains
Pushing or pulling heavy loads with hand trucks and wheels can strain muscles and joints in the arms, shoulders, and back, causing convulsions and blows.
- Cuts and bruises
Hand trucks and wheels can have sharp edges or corners that can cause cuts and bruises if they make contact with the body.
- Trips and falls
Uneven terrain, obstacles, or excessive loads can cause the vehicle to slip or become difficult to control, resulting in a trip or fall accident.
- Scratched fingers
Hand trucks and wheels can have moving parts that, if not handled properly, can scratch a wrist or hand.
- Back injuries
Improper lifting techniques and excessive loading can strain the back, leading to long-term injuries and chronic pain.
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