Using Skates for Moving Heavy Objects

You’ll find plenty of ergonomic equipment moving systems at Hovair Systems suitable for different shapes, sizes, dimensions, and weights. Skates are a recurring feature in our material handling equipment. They prevent the hazards of manual handling and make operations much easier across various sectors.

Here are some tips for using skates to move heavy objects.

Assess the Risks and Take Precautions

If you’re the one operating the skates, we recommend doing a risk assessment to see if you and those around you are safe from the potential risks of mishandling loads.

• Ensure you’re properly qualified to operate moving skates, especially if you’ve never used the type before.
• Suit up: wear the recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)for the job.
• Assess your health and get medical clearance before operating the equipment.
• Double-check for drugs or alcohol in your system before getting to work.

Do a Run Through of the Heavy Load Carrier

It takes two to move heavy material: you and the moving skates. Once you’ve checked your health and condition, do the same for the machine you use for any faults or damage.

• Check for safeguards.
• Follow the load capacity: try not to put more than one ton if you’re the only one operating the skates.
• Check the weight distribution.
• Read the manual to see how and in which direction the skates can move.
• Repair damaged parts if any.

Clear the Path of the Skates

The path you plan to move the load may or may not depend on your skates. For instance, straight-line skates support straight trajectories, whereas skates with rotating features facilitate all directions but require a more sophisticated operation.

You must also ensure that the path of your move is clear of obstructions and debris to make for a smooth ride. A bumpy path might dislodge the load or move it from the point of contact.

If you encounter obstructions like power lines, narrow aisles, cracks, or bumps, mark clearly before addressing them. Doing so can address all the obstructions, remove the debris, and ensure smooth transport.

Look Around You

As previously mentioned, you must always look around and ensure the people you’re working with are safe before starting work. However, your coworkers aren’t the only people you should consider in this equation. In any case:

• It would be best if you didn’t work in the presence of children or animals.
• Even if you’ve followed the above protocol, communicate with your coworkers before starting the skates.
• Ask someone to be your spotter around the blind spots; you don’t want to hit someone you can’t see around the load unintentionally.

Heavy Load Handling Made Easy at Hovair Systems

Check out all the heavy load handling systems at Hovair Systems to make moving heavy machinery a breeze. Follow the above tips, browse our air-bearing moving systems and industrial turntables, and select the right one for your application.

Get in touch to explore custom-built material handling equipment.