This cart transforms a hand-held, gas-powered cut-off saw to a walk-behind saw. It is an engineering control that clearly reduces stooped posture and may reduce lifting and carrying. Its effect on stressful hand and wrist activity is not clear, but could be beneficial.  The cart is designed to hold and guide a hand-held saw during ground-level surface cutting.

There are different kinds of carts for gas-powered cut-off saws.  These carts have three wheels and a water tank with hose connection system.  Many models also have adjustable handles and fold for transportation.

Husqvarna has two models of carts depending on the size of the saw being used.  The KV 760 cutting cart has a quick mount for operating the K760 cut-off saw (Figure 1).  The KV 970/1260 has a quick mount for operating the K970 or K1260 cut-off saws (Figure 2).  Both models feature lateral adjustment for cutting in straight or curved lines.  Depth limiters are also installed for control of cutting depth.  Not listed on the manufacturer's site is the 4 gallon water tank which is sold separately (part number 502621602) and a required mounting kit (part number 506366201).

Figure 1.  Husqvarna KV 760 cutting cart (Photo courtesy of Husqvarna AB Construction Division)

Figure 2. Husqvarna KV 970/1260 cutting cart (Photo courtesy of Husqvarna AB Construction Division)

The STIHL Cutquik® Cart is designed to fit STIHL TS 410, TS 420, TS 480i, TS 500i, TS 700 and TS 800 cut-off machines (Figure 3).  The cart has features to keep out dust and debris including sealed bearings and a large deflector.  The 3.4 gallon water tank is sold separately (part number 42240071005).  Additionally, mounting kits are required.  Not listed on the manufacturer's site are the required mounting kits (part number 42387900702 for the TS410/TS420; 42507900700 for the TS480i/TS500i; and 42247900705 for the TS700/800).
 

Figure 3. STIHL Cutquik® Cart

A cart for gas-powered cut-off saws may increase productivity because operator fatigue is reduced.

Carts for masonry cut-off saws are similar to Walk Behind Masonry Saws.  Both may be helpful for reducing MSDs related to cutting concrete.

The use of water controls may result in wet and slippery ground and walking surfaces. During cold weather this may lead to the formation of ice and an increased risk of slips, trips and falls.  Cutting debris that is not removed from the work area while wet may become airborne once dried, posing an inhalation hazard to anyone in the area. Maintaining a work area free of debris and excess water reduces the risk of these hazards.  The use of water as a dust control increases the risk of shock when electricity is used in the same area.

The use of gasoline-powered equipment poses the risk of carbon monoxide exposure, particularly in areas where airflow is reduced.  Steps to control exposure are important because the gas is invisible, odorless and tasteless.  Poisoning by carbon monoxide can occur quickly indoors, but working outdoors does not ensure operators won’t be overcome.  Small, inexpensive personal monitors should be worn by the operator to warn of unacceptable exposures.

Cut-off masonry saws frequently generate sound levels that are greater than 90 decibels, the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), and hazardous.  Hearing protection should be worn when using masonry saws unless an industrial hygienist has conducted noise monitoring and indicated that hearing protection is not required.

As with any construction equipment, users should always follow manufacturer safety guidelines and comply with any local, state, or federal regulations.

Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC; and Jesse Brouwer, SPT – Eastern Washington University