Wheels with Brake or Without: When You Need a Brake

Having a brake on an industrial wheel can make all the difference in workplace safety. Let's examine when it's essential and which type to choose.

Types of Brakes

Wheel Brake

Locks only the wheel's rolling motion. The equipment can still rotate around its vertical axis.

Total Lock Brake

Locks both rolling and rotation. This is the safest type of brake.

Central Brake

A single pedal controls the brake on multiple wheels simultaneously. Ideal for hospital beds and heavy equipment.

When You Need a Brake

Essential

• Sloped surfaces: To prevent unintentional movement
• Workstations: Benches, machines that must remain stationary during use
• Food areas: Transport carts in butcher shops, bakeries
• Hospital equipment: Beds, medication trolleys

Optional

• Flat floors without slopes
• Light equipment in fixed positions
• Carts in constant motion

How Many Wheels with Brakes?

| Configuration | Use | |--------------|-----| | 2 of 4 with brake | Standard for most carts | | 4 of 4 with brake | Maximum safety, heavy equipment | | Central brake | Hospitals, specialized equipment |

Safety Tips

1. Regularly check brake function
2. Replace wheels with worn brake mechanisms
3. Train staff on proper use
4. On sloped floors, always use total lock brakes

Browse our brake wheel range in our catalog or request specialized advice.