WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:07.000 music 00:00:08.000 --> 00:00:12.000 music 00:00:12.000 --> 00:00:16.000 music 00:00:16.000 --> 00:00:20.000 music 00:00:20.000 --> 00:00:24.000 music 00:00:24.000 --> 00:00:28.000 music 00:00:28.000 --> 00:00:31.000 music 00:00:31.000 --> 00:00:36.000 music 00:00:36.000 --> 00:00:40.000 Utility carts like any other vehicle require a trained operator 00:00:40.000 --> 00:00:42.000 who complies with all safety procedures. 00:00:42.000 --> 00:00:46.000 The operator must act responsibly and safely at all times 00:00:46.000 --> 00:00:88.000 adhering to guidelines set to ensure the safety of the driver, 00:01:28.000 --> 00:01:31.000 their passengers and pedestrians alike. 00:01:31.000 --> 00:01:34.000 During the next ten minutes we will address some of the inherent hazards 00:01:34.000 --> 00:01:38.000 involved with utility carts and provide safety procedures in the areas 00:01:38.000 --> 00:01:42.000 of authorization, inspection and operation. 00:01:42.000 --> 00:01:46.000 music 00:01:46.000 --> 00:01:50.000 Authorization. 00:01:50.000 --> 00:01:54.000 Only authorized persons who have safely completed safety utility cart training 00:01:54.000 --> 00:01:58.000 may operate a utility cart. Although training varies by facility 00:01:58.000 --> 00:01:62.000 cart operators must be informed about the site procedures, 00:02:02.000 --> 00:02:07.000 familiar with the facility layout and well versed with the operation of each vehicle in use by their facility. 00:02:07.000 --> 00:02:10.000 Although not required in all cases 00:02:10.000 --> 00:02:14.000 most facilities mandate a valid driver's license to operate any and all utility carts. 00:02:14.000 --> 00:02:18.000 Generally, utility carts are unregistered motor vehicles and are not 00:02:18.000 --> 00:02:22.000 allowed in outside roadways, except along marked pedestrian crosswalks. 00:02:22.000 --> 00:02:26.000 Anyone found driving a utility cart along a roadway is subject 00:02:26.000 --> 00:02:30.000 to fines and penalties under the state motor vehicle statutes. 00:02:30.000 --> 00:02:34.000 The intent of the policy is to prevent injuries to pedestrians, utility cart 00:02:34.000 --> 00:02:38.000 operators and their passengers. Some of the newer carts however are 00:02:38.000 --> 00:02:42.000 street legal, but are not to be operated on roadways with posted 00:02:42.000 --> 00:02:45.000 speed limits higher than thirty five miles per hour. 00:02:45.000 --> 00:02:48.000 music 00:02:48.000 --> 00:02:51.000 Inspection. 00:02:51.000 --> 00:02:55.000 Cart operators should inspect their vehicles at least once a day. 00:02:55.000 --> 00:02:60.000 Complete the following checklist while surveying the entire exterior of the cart. 00:03:00.000 --> 00:03:07.000 Check for: low tire pressure, rust damage, broken turn signals and or fluid leaks. 00:03:07.000 --> 00:03:10.000 Be sure that your cart is equipped with all the safety devices 00:03:10.000 --> 00:03:13.000 that your facility requires. 00:03:13.000 --> 00:03:18.000 After a visual inspection is complete proceed to check all functional aspects of the carts safety devices. 00:03:18.000 --> 00:03:23.000 Check them for loose steering, functional audible reverse alarm 00:03:23.000 --> 00:03:25.000 and working breaks. 00:03:25.000 --> 00:03:30.000 Immediately report anything that is not in proper working order to the site supervisor. 00:03:30.000 --> 00:03:34.000 Any cart that is found in disrepair must be taken out of service immediately. 00:03:34.000 --> 00:03:38.000 Check to see if your cart has: 00:03:38.000 --> 00:03:41.000 side and rearview mirrors that are not cracked or fogged, 00:03:41.000 --> 00:03:46.000 flashing hazards on top of the cab, headlights that are fully functional, 00:03:46.000 --> 00:03:51.000 electric wipers, seatbelt, fully functional turn signals, horn 00:03:51.000 --> 00:03:54.000 and correctly charged battery. These items 00:03:54.000 --> 00:03:58.000 may vary depending on the safety guidelines outlined by your facility 00:03:58.000 --> 00:03:64.000 but operators should be familiar with all functional and safety features of their cart before initiating use. 00:04:04.000 --> 00:04:09.000 If you find anything missing or damaged notify your supervisor immediately. 00:04:09.000 --> 00:04:12.000 check to ensure that obstructs the drivers view 00:04:12.000 --> 00:04:17.000 not only in the front of the cart, but on both sides of the cargo area as well. 00:04:17.000 --> 00:04:20.000 Items such as tools, storage units 00:04:20.000 --> 00:04:22.000 or any other optional accessory that might hinder 00:04:22.000 --> 00:04:26.000 driving safely should be secured and out of the way. 00:04:26.000 --> 00:04:30.000 In addition to clearing all visual obstructions, make sure to clear any items 00:04:30.000 --> 00:04:34.000 that may impede the process of your utility cart. 00:04:34.000 --> 00:04:40.000 Regular battery maintenance is another key component of insuring your utility cart is in proper running order. 00:04:40.000 --> 00:04:43.000 Older batteries have been known to explode due to over charging. 00:04:43.000 --> 00:04:46.000 Refer to the owners manual for the correct charging procedures. 00:04:46.000 --> 00:04:50.000 music 00:04:50.000 --> 00:04:54.000 Operation. 00:04:54.000 --> 00:04:59.000 There are many factors involved in the safe and responsible operation of utility carts. 00:04:59.000 --> 00:04:64.000 Controlling speed, predicting possible hazards, being mindful of pedestrians 00:05:04.000 --> 00:05:07.000 and avoiding distractions are all important factors that should be 00:05:07.000 --> 00:05:10.000 observed when operating a utility cart. 00:05:10.000 --> 00:05:14.000 Speeding not only endangers the cart operator, but puts all 00:05:14.000 --> 00:05:18.000 persons in the vicinity at risk. It is extremely important that cart 00:05:18.000 --> 00:05:22.000 operators obey the speed limit guidelines established by the facility 00:05:22.000 --> 00:05:25.000 or posted speed limit markers. 00:05:25.000 --> 00:05:27.000 Never drive faster than conditions allow. 00:05:27.000 --> 00:05:33.000 Knowing your facilities speed policies and reducing speed when pedestrians are present is imperative 00:05:33.000 --> 00:05:37.000 especially when crossing or driving along sidewalks. 00:05:37.000 --> 00:05:42.000 Never race a cart or accelerate too quickly. Keep smooth acceleration. 00:05:42.000 --> 00:05:46.000 Utility carts are not designed for speed and may easily lose control if 00:05:46.000 --> 00:05:50.000 driven in an improper manner. Never follow too closely and always 00:05:50.000 --> 00:05:55.000 keep enough stopping distance and when backing up watch where you're going and back up slowly. 00:05:55.000 --> 00:05:59.000 Changing or hazardous conditions 00:05:59.000 --> 00:05:62.000 that may require cart operators to reduce speed or find an 00:06:02.000 --> 00:06:06.000 alternate route include situations where tire traction may be compromised. 00:06:06.000 --> 00:06:10.000 Pay particular attention to your surroundings and never drive when 00:06:10.000 --> 00:06:14.000 it is unsafe or when your visibility is reduced due to weather conditions. 00:06:14.000 --> 00:06:18.000 Know the maximum weight limits of your vehicle and never overload a cart. 00:06:18.000 --> 00:06:22.000 Maximum load capacity varies by model and operators should 00:06:22.000 --> 00:06:26.000 consult weight limits posted in the cart or in the owners manual. 00:06:26.000 --> 00:06:29.000 If you are hauling a load make sure all cargo is secured 00:06:29.000 --> 00:06:31.000 and within the confines of the cart. 00:06:31.000 --> 00:06:35.000 Hauling objects that do not properly fit in the carts cargo area 00:06:35.000 --> 00:06:37.000 may cause the cart to become imbalanced. 00:06:37.000 --> 00:06:41.000 Passengers must never ride in the bed of a utility cart 00:06:41.000 --> 00:06:44.000 or any are not designated for passenger transport. 00:06:44.000 --> 00:06:49.000 Both operators must keep their hands, feet and objects inside the cab of the cart 00:06:49.000 --> 00:06:54.000 while in motion and never exit the cart until it has come to a complete stop 00:06:54.000 --> 00:06:55.000 and the parking break has been engaged. 00:06:55.000 --> 00:06:61.000 When approaching a blind turn, or when driving in areas where buildings may obstruct an operators view of approaching traffic 00:07:01.000 --> 00:07:06.000 it may be helpful to use one's horn. When approaching a blind turn sound horn. 00:07:06.000 --> 00:07:10.000 Slowly advance cart until better visibility can be achieved 00:07:10.000 --> 00:07:12.000 and proceed with caution. 00:07:12.000 --> 00:07:15.000 While driving off road be cautious of sprinkler heads 00:07:15.000 --> 00:07:18.000 as well as other landscaping obstacles that may protrude from the ground. 00:07:18.000 --> 00:07:22.000 Additionally avoid traveling up steep hills 00:07:22.000 --> 00:07:26.000 But in the event that a steep hill must be negotiated proceed up the hill head on. 00:07:26.000 --> 00:07:30.000 Traveling up a hill at an angle may cause the cart to tip. 00:07:30.000 --> 00:07:35.000 Pedestrians. Scan for pedestrians and or other vehicles as you drive. 00:07:35.000 --> 00:07:39.000 The actions of pedestrians are often difficult to predict. 00:07:39.000 --> 00:07:43.000 In heavy traffic areas operators must either find an alternative route 00:07:43.000 --> 00:07:46.000 Or stop until the area is safe to proceed. 00:07:46.000 --> 00:07:50.000 At all times yield to pedestrians. They have the right of way. 00:07:50.000 --> 00:07:54.000 Many pedestrians may be distracted or not aware of your presence. 00:07:54.000 --> 00:07:57.000 Never assume they will see you and stop for you. 00:07:57.000 --> 00:07:60.000 Pay particular attention to the needs of the disabled 00:08:00.000 --> 00:08:06.000 As limitations in vision, mobility or hearing may impair their ability to respond. 00:08:06.000 --> 00:08:10.000 Always abide by the proper utility cart safety etiquette guidelines. 00:08:10.000 --> 00:08:13.000 And never use your cart to intimidate people out of the way. 00:08:13.000 --> 00:08:16.000 Come to a complete stop before crossing a roadway 00:08:16.000 --> 00:08:21.000 Or proceeding through intersecting sidewalks or other areas that have blindspots. 00:08:21.000 --> 00:08:26.000 To cross roadways at pedestrian crosswalks slowly drive alongside the pedestrian crosswalk 00:08:26.000 --> 00:08:30.000 Paying close attention to all posted traffic signs and signals 00:08:30.000 --> 00:08:33.000 Just as if you were operating a normal motor vehicle. 00:08:33.000 --> 00:08:37.000 Do not engage in any activity that might take your hands off the wheel. 00:08:37.000 --> 00:08:42.000 Activities such as operating a radio, eating, drinking, smoking 00:08:42.000 --> 00:08:46.000 or using a cellular phone are all internal distractions 00:08:46.000 --> 00:08:50.000 that affect your ability to safely operate a utility cart. 00:08:50.000 --> 00:08:53.000 External factors that distract an operator's attention 00:08:53.000 --> 00:08:58.000 Additionally pose a significant risk to both the cart operator as well as pedestrians. 00:08:58.000 --> 00:08:62.000 Anything that distracts an operator from the primary function of driving 00:09:02.000 --> 00:09:06.000 Or diverts the operator's attention requires the stoppage of the vehicle 00:09:06.000 --> 00:09:10.000 Until full attention can be paid to the task at hand. 00:09:10.000 --> 00:09:14.000 Racing stunts, horseplay or reckless behavior are strictly prohibited. 00:09:14.000 --> 00:09:19.000 Parking a cart incorrectly can cause hazards that can easily be avoided. 00:09:19.000 --> 00:09:21.000 Use the parking break. 00:09:21.000 --> 00:09:25.000 Do not leave the keys in the ignition of an unattended cart. 00:09:25.000 --> 00:09:28.000 If you must leave the cart take the keys with you. 00:09:28.000 --> 00:09:35.000 Park your cart away from emergency exits, doors, stairs, sidewalks or handicap ramps. 00:09:35.000 --> 00:09:38.000 Be mindful of where your cart is parked. 00:09:38.000 --> 00:09:41.000 Do not leave your cart in a high pedestrian traffic area. 00:09:41.000 --> 00:09:47.000 Instead park in areas that are designated for cart parking or have low pedestrian traffic. 00:09:47.000 --> 00:09:53.000 It is ultimately the responsibility of the cart operator to follow all rules and procedures 00:09:53.000 --> 00:09:57.000 In regards to authorization, inspection and operation. 00:09:57.000 --> 00:09:63.000 It is imperative that all cart operators familiarize themself with the cart's owner's manual 00:10:03.000 --> 00:10:06.000 And never operate a cart before they feel completely comfortable 00:10:06.000 --> 00:10:10.000 With all functional and safety components of the vehicle. 00:10:10.000 --> 00:10:15.000 Remember, failure to comply with any or all of the rules and regulations of your facility 00:10:15.000 --> 00:10:17.000 Can be grounds for dismissal. 00:10:17.000 --> 00:10:23.000 Driving in general is a privilege and operating a utility cart should not be considered any different.