Warehouse ramps, truck loading ramps and floors sloped for drainage are where heavy trolleys most easily run away or slip from the operator's hands. Choosing the right wheels and working correctly greatly reduces the risk.
Why Ramps Are Dangerous
- The weight of the load pushes the cart downhill on its own — the heavier the load, the stronger the pull
- Swivel casters at the downhill end can flick round, steering the cart off line
- Pushing uphill takes much more force than on the flat, risking staff injury
Choosing Wheels Where There Are Ramps
- Larger wheels: 6-inch wheels roll over ramp edges better and need less push force than small wheels
- At least 2 brake casters: to lock the cart when it must stop near a ramp or on a slope
- PU tread: grips the floor better than hard nylon or steel wheels
- A caster layout that holds direction: rigid casters keep the cart running straight along the ramp
Important: brake casters lock a parked cart, but they are not designed to slow a cart rolling down a ramp. For steep ramps or very heavy loads, use two people or towing equipment.
Safe Working Practice
- Going down a ramp, stay on the downhill side and lower the cart slowly — never let it run ahead
- Don't park on a ramp; if you must, apply every brake
- Don't exceed the wheel rating — impacts on ramps are greater than on the flat
- Put heavy items on the lowest level to keep the centre of gravity low
Summary
Work involving ramps calls for larger wheels, PU treads, brake casters and a layout that holds direction — combined with correct working practice, this greatly reduces accidents.