Dock work is crucial to the ebb and flow of transported goods, and in turn, to the economy. The safety and smooth processing of dock work is also a must if you want to remain in business.
Dock workers are at risk for workplace injuries, but you don’t want faulty equipment to retract from the safety of your workers. Notifying dock workers during safety talks is just the beginning of keeping workers safe.
Your workers do their part to stay safe every day, now it’s time to do your part by making sure you have all the necessary equipment to run a successful and safe dock working environment. Read our ultimate dock equipment checklist to make sure your docks are operating sufficiently and safely!
1. Dock Levelers
Dock levelers operate mechanically, hydraulically or electrically. The facility where you operate will provide clues on which option may be best for your company.
You can raise dock levelers or lower them to accommodate for varying heights of trailers unloading at the dock. Once you engage the dock levelers, a dock plate will also be useful in providing a bridge between the trailer and the building.
2. Dock Bumper
Dock bumpers protect the surface of the dock from trailers lowering onto the dock. Made out of rubber, they can absorb the impact between the trailer and the dock.
Bumpers protect your building, the trucks, and the incoming trailers from damage. Corner protectors and wall protectors can also be useful in maintaining the condition of your building from trailer impact.
3. Dock Barricades
Dock barricades prevent workers from falling and provide a visual stopping point for forklift drivers and workers near the loading dock when a trailer is not present.
Dock barricades can be manual or powered electrically/mechanically depending on what works best for your company and your workers. Dock rails, handrails, and guards can also be useful in preventing falls and letting workers know where danger zones are located.
4. Dock Lights
Proper lighting is essential to the operation of your dock. Depending on your hours of operation, workers may use the dock at night when adequate lighting is needed the most.
Dock lights are essential and help to keep workers safe. Communication lights, much like stop lights, are also a good investment. They provide smooth communication between truck drivers and dock workers.
5. Vehicle Restraint Devices
Vehicle restraint devices keep the truck unloading its trailer from rolling during the unloading process. These devices also protect against human error on the truck driver’s behalf who believes the job is done prematurely.
Wheel Chocks are commonly used to prevent trucks from rolling. These are block wedges which are placed under the front of the rear tires to prevent rolling.
ICC bar restraint systems are also increasing in popularity. These systems engage a trailers rear impact guard and secure it from rolling away. It’s best to have on hand a variety of restraint devices in case of varying weather patterns and poor condition of trailer trucks entering your loading dock.
6. Screen and Curtain Doors
Screen and curtain doors protect your building and your workers from bad weather. Screens and doors provide a barrier from outside elements and assist in preventing slips and falls. They also allow your workers to be in a more secure and climate controlled environment making it easier to unload.
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