HCT injuries.

[hazzeem025]

Just a quick question. Any other users of HCTS out there suffering with neck/shoulder/back complaints since they've started using?

Several of us in our office who use HCTS are suffering with the above type of problems.

Just wondering if this is a country wide problem? RM doctor claims it isn't and HCTS are a super piece of kit.

[paulthepostie]

We have had them (all but two or three walks) in our office for three years and injuries and problems are far worse than when we used bikes. We currently have at any one time, 3 to 4 reh-habs and still have people with long term problems (myself included).

I would say they must be having an impact in our office as there is talks of replacing them with van duties instead.

[Dorset Plodder]

Royal Mail said one of the main reasons it got rid of the Cycles was for H&S reasons. I would be interested to know how many injuries have been caused by LWT, HCT and injuries from getting in and out of Low Vauxhall Combos since they got rid of them.

I admit I fell off a bike off two, but the incessant grind of the NEW Delivery Methods way of working is taking a toll. At least you used to get a bit of a break with a bike. Even if it was just the ride out,and ride back, from your delivery area. Now it's just Plod...Plod...Plod... On these Hot summer Days it feels like "March or Die"!

[DiamondSmiles]

Just a quick question. Any other users of HCTS out there suffering with neck/shoulder/back complaints since they've started using?

Several of us in our office who use HCTS are suffering with the above type of problems.

Just wondering if this is a country wide problem? RM doctor claims it isn't and HCTS are a super piece of kit.

Maybe your doctor would like to give it a go for a few weeks, then come back to you with his updated opinion.

I do wonder about the medical profession sometimes. I once had a nurse you told me that working as a postman DIDN'T keep me fit!

[greengiant]

MK1 or MK2 HCTs?

I find the MK1s a mare to use, as it's like steering a tank with skid steering! Plus no where to hold your bundle while your pushing it. So you need to try and hold bundle in one hand, while pushing the trolley.

[DiamondSmiles]

MK1 or MK2 HCTs?

I find the MK1s a mare to use, as it's like steering a tank with skid steering! Plus no where to hold your bundle while your pushing it. So you need to try and hold bundle in one hand, while pushing the trolley.

You are supposed to have the bundle of letters in your hand at all times when walking round which ever MK HCT your using. If I am reading what you have written correctly you put your letters in the tray of a MK2 whilst walking to delivery points? You would be pulled up by the I.B/manager if seen doing that as its a security risk.

[TrueBlueTerrier]

No they can't leave the bundle when going to the delivery point, but they can have the bundle in the carrier when physically pushing/operating the trolley.

[greengiant]

No they can't leave the bundle when going to the delivery point, but they can have the bundle in the carrier when physically pushing/operating the trolley.

Exactly, except there being no bundle holder on the mk1! Luckily I've got a third hand to hold the bundle while my other hands push the hct!

[Eastie16]

While it's good to have steering on the Mk2's, this - and extras like the undertray, I guess - makes them 10 kilos heavier than the Mk 1. Think this extra weight is tipping the balance H&S wise for alot of people, pressure on neck in particular. Surprised at the heavier max load permitted too - 122 against 105, although appreciate you don't actually have to load to this limit. Also seems a lack of clarity on whether or not it's acceptable to use them at all on steep inclines. Have read some posts on here expressing shock and horror that they are being used up and down hills - yet Safer Systems of Working gives guidance on max loads for "steep sections". Don't know where we stand if injured using them - how would "culpability" be judged? Real shame that the electric version has pretty much bitten the dust now. Brilliant bit of kit. No need for bag drops and no fear of hills!

[Shaders]

Look on the bright side, give it a couple months and youll be pushing it through snow as well.
Maybe they could bring out another new version with a plow on the front?

[ScousePostie]

The office I work at is getting rid of HCT walks and replacing with shared vans.

[greengiant]

Saw a bloke attempt to strap a LWT on to the top of his HCT. Probably so he could whizz round loops with the LWT?!?