Ice/refreshment carts allow for quick and easy distribution of food and liquids for activities and parties, with the convenience of keeping everything in one place.
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Using ice carts, or refreshment carts, to transport ice chests, food and liquids instead of carrying those items saves a lot of effort, and it decreases the risk of an overexertion injury. Pushing an ice cart is preferable to pulling an ice cart for several reasons.
An individual’s feet can get “run over” by the ice cart when pulling it. When pulling and facing in the direction of travel, the arms are stretched behind the body, placing the shoulders and back in a mechanically awkward position. This can increase the likelihood of a painful, debilitating and costly injury. Pulling while walking backwards is an accident waiting to happen, because the person is unable to see the path of travel. Research has found that pushing can exert a higher force than pulling. But, in some situations, pulling may be the only way to move an ice cart. If pulling cannot be avoided, minimize it whenever possible.
What Safety Conditions are Helpful when Using an Ice Cart?
When using an ice cart, it is beneficial to keep the area it is used at in safe conditions. There are simple actions that can be taken to ensure the risks associated with using an ice cart are minimized.
The width of the aisles should be wide enough for the operator’s body to safely stand behind the ice cart at all times so pushing can be applied when needed to move it. If the aisles or corners are tight, the load weight may need to be reduced to eliminate starting and stopping the ice cart. Aisles should also be kept clear of clutter.
If using ramps when moving an ice cart, more force is required to move it up the ramp, as well as to slow it down while moving down the ramp. It is a good idea to have more than one person helping when moving ice carts on ramps.
The floor the ice cart is being rolled around on needs to be in good repair. Uneven or damaged floors can create hazards in that they can catch the wheels of the cart. Floors need to be clean and free of dirt, debris, dust, liquids and spills. Floors that are not clean can increase the ability of the user to lose traction. This can cause them to exert extra force to move the ice cart and they may slip and trip.
What is an Ice Chest?
An ice chest, also called a cooler, is an insulated box used to keep food or drinks cool, or to store ice. Ice cubes or ice packs are commonly placed inside them to help keep the items cool. Ice chests are usually made with exterior and interior shells of plastic, with a hard foam in between. They come is various sizes and colors, and most of them have molded-in handles.
How do I Choose the Right Ice Cart?
Ice carts, or refreshment carts, allow for quick and easy distribution of liquids and food for activities and parties. Some have ergonomic handles to make them easier to push, providing comfort and security.
Ice carts can hold various sized coolers, from 5 gallon water coolers to 48 quart insulated coolers. They should have durable casters for smooth and easy delivery around any facility. Some have shelves to offer additional storage space and a flip-up serving shelf to use as needed. A cooler drain tub, or drip tray, is beneficial to help drain the cooler so the ice can last longer. Some even come with an ice scoop.
Ice carts should be constructed of healthcare-grade PVC framing, to control the growth of bacteria, and reinforced at all stress points. Some models are available in a wood tone color to match the PVC. The wood tone color is used because millions of Americans over the age of 65 have a severe visual impairment, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. The wood color offers the needed contrast to accommodate people experiencing difficulty with depth perception, reducing the risk of falls. It also helps it to be non-institutional looking to blend in with other furniture.
Some models are available with skirt cover panels or a mesh canopy to blend in with the latest trends in interior design for residential homes and healthcare facilities.
Rehabmart is pleased to carry a large assortment of superior quality ice carts from noted vendors that include IPU and MJM International.
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO
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