Powered Carts* Safety Guidelines

California State University, Fresno

*A powered cart includes both open-air carts and fully enclosed low-speed vehicles

Each university department that operates powered carts must:

1) Ensure that all cart drivers are authorized to drive a state vehicle

2) Provide all drivers with adequate training prior to operation

3) Ensure that each cart is mechanically safe to operate

1) Authorized Drivers must be on the list maintained by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety, Risk Management and Sustainability, and:

  • Possess a valid United States Drivers License;
  • Complete a defensive driving course;
  • Maintain a good driving record.

It is the responsibility of each driver to promptly report any changes in their driving status.

2) Training Program administered by the driver’s supervisor/authorized trainer:

Date of Training: ______________________

Pre-trip inspection: immediately report all defects

  • Check accelerator pedal for smooth operation
  • Check lights and horns, if equipped
  • Check back-up lights
  • Test Brakes for proper operation

Operating Basics

  • Accelerator and brake pedal operation, including parking brake
  • Forward-Reverse switch location and operation
  • Parking and recharging procedures
  • Load capacity and turning capabilities

Cart Safety Rules

  • Only authorized drivers may operate carts. Please do not leave your key in the cart.
  • All passengers must be in seats designed for such use. No passengers in cart beds, on sides, or on another passenger’s lap or shoulders.
  • Operators and passengers must keep arms and legs inside the cart while in motion.
  • Doors must be closed and seat belts must be worn while the cart is in motion, if so equipped.
  • Secure materials and equipment so they don’t fall off or protrude from the sides.
  • Use slow speeds and extreme caution at all times.
  • Pedestrians have the right-of-way. Assume they do not see you.
  • Carts are not allowed in the NO-DRIVE ZONE. Only carts with a permit issued by University Police may operate in the RESTRICTED DRIVING ZONE. Use should be limited between the hours of 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Mon. – Fri.
  • Only street legal vehicles may be driven on Barstow, Cedar and Shaw Aves. when safe to do so.
  • Do not drive while using or wearing devices that impede hearing in either ear or cause a distraction, e.g., headsets, earphones, music players, earplugs, cell phones, communication devices, etc. Public Safety personnel may be exempt while using communication devices at the discretion of the Chief of Police.
  • State cell phone/texting laws apply to cart drivers.
  • Observe all traffic laws, violators will be cited.
  • Smoking is not allowed in carts, whether stopped or in motion.

3) Powered Cart Maintenance

  • Report all defects immediately.
  • Do not operate a cart that is not properly equipped or defective.
  • All carts must receive an annual safety inspection at the Ag Operations shop.
  • A written summary of inspection results will be kept in department files.

I have read, understand and agree to follow all the safety guidelines as set forth in this document.

Signature X___________________ Driver Name _________________ Trainer ____________________

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