Page 102 - Treston main catalogue 2021

TROLLEYS TROLLEYS

Castors play an important role
A quality castor is of the appropriate size in relation to the four swivel castors in tight spaces, making it easier to turn
working environment and purpose of the trolley. The bigger and control loads. Strong castor brakes lock the trolley in
the castor, the easier it is to move the trolley. For example, position, making sure that it stays where it is supposed to be.
big castors make it easier to push the trolley over thresholds
and other similar obstacles. The tread in quality castors Castors have a big effect in minimizing the start forces
withstands wear and tear. The wheel/tread material is not needed to get the trolley moving as well as in reducing the
the only factor influencing the usability and easy movability rolling resistance and therefore play an important role in
of the trolley, as the flooring material also affects how well ensuring proper ergonomics. The amount of force required
the castor rolls and moves. to move loads with trolleys depends on a number of factors:

Swivel castors are also handy on a trolley, making it easy • weight and shape of the load
to manoeuvre even in small spaces. We recommend using
• type and condition of floor surface (e.g. smoothness
and density)
• route taken (e.g. slopes and obstacles)
• type of castor, especially the materials used

• size of castor
• maintenance of castors – cleaning, lubricating and/or
replacing castors on a regular basis has a vital effect
in maintaining the ride comfort and minimizing the push
effort.

Task experience is the key to reducing strain
Task experience and correct working technique in pushing
and pulling play an important role in reducing some
measures of biomechanical strain and therefore yield
potential for reducing the risk of injury. For example,
pulling a lighter weight trolley at hip height, with arms
outstretched, would result in very high compressive force
at the lower back, as opposed to pushing a much heavier
trolley between shoulder and elbow height, arms closer to
body, which results in much less of a compressive force at
the lower back. As a reference, see the illustration on the
power zones where people have the greatest strength and
most comfort.

If your goal is to ensure efficient processes and ergonomic
working conditions, start by selecting the correct type of
trolley for the task and then orientating all workers with the
physical aspects and best working techniques for the specific
task at hand. No matter how fancy the features of your
trolley, if your workers use bad techniques while performing
their tasks with the trolley, you are sure to increase the risk
of injuries and create inefficiency in processes. If necessary,
modify work practices so that workers can perform their
tasks and work within their power zone.

! Although there is no exact weight limit that is safe, a weight
of 20–25 kg is heavy to lift for most people and it thus
increases the risk of back injury.

102 Treston - For a better work environment