From campuses to construction sites, small industrial carts—commonly referred to as golf carts or utility vehicles—are essential for transporting people and materials efficiently. Despite their convenience and simplicity, they come with risks. Cart accidents can lead to collisions, rollovers, or passenger injuries. With the proper knowledge and preparation, you can ensure a safer environment for yourself and others.
Prepare to drive by meeting training and maintenance requirements, following local regulations, and conducting thorough cart functionality checks.
Driving safely starts long before turning the key. Preparation involves meeting both employer and driver responsibilities.
Employer Responsibilities
- Establish rules for cart use and on-site traffic.
- Provide training for operators.
- Ensure regular cart maintenance.
Driver Responsibilities
- Age & Licensing: Follow local and vehicle-specific requirements.
- Training & Authorization: Complete training for the cart and its intended use and secure employer authorization.
Pre-Drive Checklist
Before operating a cart, inspect its functionality:
- Check tire pressure.
- Ensure the accelerator is smooth and non-sticking.
- Test brakes.
- Verify that the mirrors, horn, headlights, signals, and seatbelts are working.
These steps are vital for ensuring your safety and the safety of others around you.
Drive safely by following speed limits, avoiding risky behaviors, ensuring passenger safety, and adapting to slopes, loads, and weather conditions.
Basic Driving Tips
- Follow the cart manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the direction selector and look behind you before reversing.
- Obey speed limits and traffic rules.
- Slow down near pedestrians, intersections, or tight spaces.
- Use signals or hand gestures when turning.
Avoiding Risky Behavior
- Avoid sharp turns, racing, or horseplay.
- Always drive from the driver’s side.
- Stay focused—avoid distractions like texting or eating.
- Never operate a cart under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or impairing medications.
Passenger Safety
- Wait until the cart is entirely stopped for passengers to board or exit.
- Ensure all passengers are seated before driving.
- Do not exceed the cart’s capacity.
- Passengers should always keep arms and legs inside the cart—no standing or hanging off the sides.
Special Considerations
- Slopes: Approach inclines straight on and avoids sudden stops or turns.
- Transporting Loads: Follow weight guidelines and secure loads properly.
- Weather Conditions: Slow down in low visibility or adverse weather; seek shelter during thunderstorms.
Parking Guidelines
- Engage the parking brake.
- Remove keys when not in use.
- Avoid blocking access to emergency areas, entrances, or ramps.
Proper cart upkeep involves safe fueling, secure storage, regular inspections, and routine professional maintenance for optimal safety and longevity.
Charging and Fueling
- Battery-Powered Carts: Charge in ventilated areas and check for wear or leaks.
- Gas-Powered Carts: Turn off the engine during refueling and avoid sparks or open flames.
Storage
- Store carts indoors, if possible. If outdoors, use protective covers.
- Ensure gas-powered carts are stored in well-ventilated areas, away from combustibles.
- Park on solid surfaces to prevent sinking or shifting.
- Use locks or secured facilities to prevent theft or vandalism.
Routine Inspections
- Regularly check tires, brakes, and batteries for signs of wear or damage.
- Schedule routine maintenance with professionals familiar with your cart model.
- Maintain a log of inspections and repairs for future reference.
Safe cart operation demands preparation, focus, and upkeep: complete training, drive responsibly, inspect regularly, and maintain carts to prevent risks.
- Preparing to Drive: Know the rules, complete training, and inspect your cart before use.
- Safe Driving Practices: Follow speed limits, avoid distractions, prioritize passenger safety, and adjust for slopes or lousy weather.
- Maintenance and Upkeep: Charge or fuel carts properly, store them securely, and conduct regular inspections.
Stay Safe and Efficient While Operating Small Vehicles with the Right Training and Practices
Utility carts, like golf carts and UTVs, are invaluable for various workplaces, but their safe operation is critical. If you’re unsure about safety protocols or need proper training for your team, it’s time to act. Speak with your supervisor or safety coordinator to ensure you have the skills and knowledge to operate these vehicles responsibly.
Safety starts here. Learn to operate carts efficiently and maintain compliance with our Small Vehicle Safety: Golf Carts and UTVs Training Course!
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