Loading Dock Safety

DOCK LEVELERS / CROSS PLATES

• Know the dock plate capacity.
• Routinely inspect dock levelers for hazards.
• Keep dock leveler wells clear of trash / waste.
• Keep dock levelers adjusted.
• When a trailer is backed into position, the dock leveler must cross completely into the trailer.
• Never work beneath a raised dock leveler without blocking and bracing it.
• Return dock levelers to the cradle before allowing the trailer / truck to leave.

SEMI TRUCKS AND TRAILERS

• Semi trucks and trailers can “creep” forward when forklifts are moving in and out.
• Always chock tires of semi trailers.
• When a trailer is dropped (the tractor has left) always use a kingpin plate jack stand.
• Kingpin plate jack stands, combined with the trailer landing legs, prevent the trailer from tipping forward during loading / offloading.
• Inspect the trailer floor before moving out on it with a forklift.
• Pedestrians are not allowed in trailers during forklift unloading.

LOADING DOCK BEST PRACTICES

• Never “dock jump” - knee injury could result.
• Never climb into a dock door as a fall could lead to serious injury.
• Keep dock doors closed to prevent falls and increase security.
• If dock doors must stay open for ventilation purposes, provide a guardrail system to prevent accidental fall.
• Keep dock floors dry – clean up spills or tracked rain water immediately.
• If drivers enter the facility, keep an eye out for them – ensure their safety and security.
• Make sure forklift spot lights function.
• Make sure trailer lights function to light the insides of dark trailers.
• When loading/offloading straight trucks, use a pallet jack instead of a forklift – straight trucks may not handle the weight of a forklift.
• Keep dock areas and stairs free of snow/ice.
• Do not smoke on the loading dock.
• Keep floors clear of trip hazards like trash, plastic strapping and shrink wrap.

Loading dock safety involves everyone. Start and end your day safely by exercising caution when working on Loading Docks! And remember, we all work to live.

For more information about partnering with Raymond Storage Concepts and how we can help with your training, contact us.