Selecting The Right Dock Leveler - BLOG

Selecting The Right Dock Leveler - BLOG

Dock levelers bridge the gap, making it safer to load and unload materials.

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Choosing the right dock equipment is critical as the wrong selection can endanger employees. According to the National Safety Council, around 25% of all reported warehouse injuries occur on loading docks, alongside many near misses.

During loading and unloading, the leveler must support various weight loads, adjust for the trailer’s vertical movements, and fit a wide array of trailers. Dock levelers feature a ramp hinged at the rear edge and a hinged lip at the front. In most operations, the ramp raises, extending a metal plate that lowers onto the truck bed, ensuring a seamless transfer of goods.

4 Must-Know Tips for Loading Dock Leveler Safety

For businesses, loading docks are pivotal, often serving as the central hub for receiving, unloading, and loading goods. The task is demanding and fast-paced, typically involving forklifts or other material handling equipment for larger packages or pallets. Clear loading dock safety procedures are crucial for reducing workplace injuries.

Your loading dock leveler creates a stable surface between the dock and a vehicle, facilitating safer and more efficient loading and unloading of goods. This "bridge" ensures safety and reliability in daily operations, emphasizing the need for maintaining a safe working environment.

Read on for 4 essential tips to keep your loading dock leveler safe:

1. Know Your Needs

Understanding your operational specifications and requirements is vital when selecting a dock leveler. Different docking operations require different functionalities. Consider the types of vehicles used for loading and unloading, the frequency of dock leveler usage, and the weight capacities involved. Choose a leveler capable of withstanding the weight of your material handling equipment to minimize maintenance and increase safety. These considerations will help you identify the dock leveler that best suits your business needs and ensures employee safety. For more information, visit Fast Heavy Industry.

2. Use Spotters, Chocks, Mirrors, and Bumpers

Ensuring safe conditions for forklifts and other powered industrial trucks is essential, given that these vehicles cause over 100,000 injuries annually. Using a spotter can assist drivers by smoothly directing the load to its destination from a good vantage point, reducing the risk of driving off the dock leveler.

Bumpers and mirrors are also vital for dock safety, aiding operators when backing up during unloading. Even experienced operators benefit from the extra assistance provided by these tools. Chocks, heavy material wedges placed next to a vehicle’s tires, prevent trailer movement during loading or unloading, making them a necessary addition to your dock safety equipment.

3. Keep Your Dock Leveler Well Maintained

Proper maintenance of your dock leveler is crucial to avoid preventable accidents. Ensure the leveler's structure and pit are in good condition and repair any issues promptly. A smooth, solid dock surface is required for balancing and carrying loads efficiently. Regular servicing of mechanical lifts and proper rating and maintenance of dock boards are necessary to support the correct weight, enhancing safety and reducing work-related injuries.

4. Keep Everyone Clear During Loading and Unloading

Maintaining a safe distance for all employees during loading and unloading minimizes accidents. Only the spotter and operator should be near the load, as distractions can cause injuries. A calm and professional working environment is essential for safety during these operations.

Feeling Confident About Your Loading Dock Leveler Safety?

After reviewing these 4 essential tips, we hope you are more confident about your loading dock leveler safety practices. For further details on dock safety and levelers, please check out our website.