Safety Tip of the Week – Loading Dock Safety

Loading docks are hubs of activity in manufacturing plants, warehouses, industrial buildings, and distribution centers.

Loading Dock Hazards:

The loading dock area must be inspected regularly to identify potential hazards that may include:

• Slips, trips, and falls caused by floor conditions, poor housekeeping, or dock edge;
• Forklifts overturning;
• Pedestrian and powered truck collision;
• Trailer creep, which can cause a gap between the trailer and dock;
• Moving unsecured loads;
• Struck by and being crushed by an object or load;
• Back injuries from improper lifting or carrying;
• Inadequate lighting especially in the trailer; and
• Carbon monoxide exposure from truck and powered material-handling equipment.

Controlling Loading Dock Hazards:

You can reduce loading dock hazards by:

• Shutting off engine and engaging the brake while loading or unloading vehicle; • Preventing trailer creep by using wheel chocks and vehicle restraints;
• Painting the edges of the loading dock to improve visibility;
• Providing physical barriers at dock edges when not in use;
• Ensuring dock plates have appropriate capacity, stability, and proper placement; • Preventing employees from riding on material handling equipment;
• Providing adequate lighting at the dock and in trailers;
• Shrink-wrapping loose product for transport or storage; and
• Maintaining good housekeeping and cleaning up the area regularly.

SAFETY RULES ARE YOUR BEST TOOLS!!!