When an injury occurs, many times it's because we're performing one of our frequent activities - operating a pallet jack. We strain or tear shoulder muscles when pulling the pallet jack, and we strain our back when trying to tug a heavily loaded pallet jack to start it moving. To avoid this, follow the helpful hints listed below:

• Use a pallet jack only on a level surface
• Never horseplay or ride on a pallet jack
• Push rather than pull a pallet jack
• Watch for debris or objects on the floor that will stop the pallet jack abruptly
• Don't place your hands or feet under the pallet or pallet jack
• Center your load on the forks of the pallet jack
• Don't use it for a load exceeding the rated weight limit

• Don't operate it with a load so tall or large that you cannot see in the direction you are traveling
• Start and stop a pallet jack gradually

A pallet jack is a useful tool when used correctly. Like other freight handling tools, if it is used improperly, you can be injured. Your back, shoulder, and leg muscles are the engine for powering a pallet jack, so protect them! Start and stop a pallet jack smoothly. Lift your load only high enough to clear the floor and be careful going across a dock plate.