MAN/General/TBT-MAN-006

Push and Pull Operations

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Push and Pull Operations

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-MAN-006  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Pushing and pulling loads including trolleys, wheelbarrows, pipe sections, and heavy equipment causes musculoskeletal injuries.
  • The force required to start a load moving is significantly greater than the force needed to keep it moving once in motion.
  • Pushing is generally safer than pulling because the worker can use body weight and see the direction of travel.
  • Factors affecting the risk include load weight, floor surface, gradient, distance, frequency, and handle height.
  • Handle height should be between waist and shoulder level — too low forces bending, too high reduces control.
  • Wheeled equipment must be maintained with properly inflated tyres and functioning bearings to reduce the push force needed.
  • Gradients dramatically increase the force required — assistance or mechanical alternatives are needed on slopes.
  • The MAC tool (Manual handling Assessment Chart) can be used to assess pushing and pulling risks on site.
  • Floors and ground surfaces must be even, firm, and free from debris that increases friction or causes wheel jamming.
  • Team pushing and pulling requires coordination — one person must lead and communicate throughout the movement.

Why?

Hidden injuryPush and pull injuries develop gradually from repetitive strain — workers often do not realise they are being damaged until it is too late.
Surface mattersA wheel that sinks into soft ground or jams on debris multiplies the force needed, causing sudden strain injuries.
Pushing beats pullingPulling loads means working blind and using weaker muscle groups — pushing allows better vision, posture, and force application.
Do Don't
  • Push loads rather than pull wherever the task and route allow it.
  • Ensure wheeled equipment has maintained tyres, bearings, and castors.
  • Adjust handle heights to between waist and shoulder level for best control.
  • Assess push and pull risks using the MAC tool or equivalent assessment method.
  • Maintain even, firm ground surfaces along push and pull routes on site.
  • Use mechanical aids for heavy loads or movements over long distances.
  • Get help from a colleague when pushing or pulling loads on gradients.
  • Coordinate team pushes clearly — one person leads and gives direction.
  • Clear debris, cables, and obstructions from the route before starting.
  • Report any equipment with seized wheels, flat tyres, or stiff bearings.
  • DON'T pull loads when pushing them is possible — pushing is safer and more controlled.
  • DON'T use wheeled equipment with flat tyres, seized bearings, or broken castors.
  • DON'T push or pull with handles that are too high or too low for your body.
  • DON'T ignore the push and pull risk — assess it with the same rigour as lifting.
  • DON'T push loads over soft, uneven, or debris-covered ground without clearing the route.
  • DON'T push heavy loads alone when mechanical aids are available on site.
  • DON'T attempt to push heavy loads uphill alone — get help or use a winch.
  • DON'T start a team push without agreeing who leads and how to communicate.
  • DON'T leave obstacles in push and pull routes where wheels can jam.
  • DON'T keep using faulty wheeled equipment — report it for immediate repair.

See also: Manual Handling Awareness | Correct Lifting Technique
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