Winter in Northeastern Pennsylvania can be long and challenging. So with springtime comes the desire for warmer temperatures and all things outdoors. It’s also the perfect time to take a look at the effects of winter weather on your loading dock and commercial door equipment.

In manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers, the loading dock is the center of activity—the hub for loading and unloading goods. In any operation, the loading dock has the potential to be a dangerous area and is often neglected. Since 25% of all reported warehouse injuries occur at the loading dock ^[1] , it’s an area that requires attention. Following strict safety procedures is vital to keeping your employees safe, see OSHA’s Loading & Unloading Overview. ^[2]

It’s also a good practice to inspect your dock equipment regularly and take action on repairs that are needed. Here are some basics and what to look for.

• Seals– Maintaining your dock seals helps to preserve internal temperatures for better energy efficiency. Also, a proper dock seal protects your products from outside contaminants like water, dust, and dirt. And let’s not forget about pests. Seal the gaps to get rid of pests like bugs, birds, and mice. They are unhealthy, unsanitary, and can be a huge distraction to your workers. If the foam core is visible on the side or head pads, or if you have ripped seams or tears, it is time to call someone to repair or replace your dock seal.

• Bumpers – Damaged and worn bumpers are the most common problem on the loading dock. It’s important to keep your dock bumpers in good condition because they protect the dock from truck damage. Also, they can be used as a guide by the truck driver when backing up into the loading bay. Look for worn and damaged bumpers. If your dock bumpers are in poor shape, you need to repair or replace them as damages to the dock will end up costing your company even more money.

• Levelers – A dock leveler serves as the bridge between your dock and the truck. Make sure they are in tip-top shape and operating correctly to accommodate forklifts that are moving product in and out. Observe whether your dock leveler is slow to extend or uneven. This situation limits productivity and is aggravating to drivers and dock workers. It creates a situation that could lead to serious injury. We recommend service on your dock levelers at least once a year, or more, depending on the volume of use.

• Lifts – A dock lift serves the same purpose as a leveler but operates similarly to a scissor lift as it allows more significant height adjustments. Like dock levelers, regular inspection is warranted. A good maintenance routine will help to keep your loading dock running smooth, more efficient, and make it a safer for everyone.

To conclude, your loading dock area is a complete system where all the components work together to keep the outside out and the inside in. Always keep the area dry, maintain a clutter-free zone, and clean up spills for safety reasons. And if you see any damages to your equipment, take quick action to correct the problem.

You can rely on the Action Lift’s Dock & Door Division to inspect, repair, and install superior equipment. We represent Kelley & Blue Giant along with Armarr and Wayne Dalton Commercial Doors. Contact us today. We are ready to be your material-handling and Warehouse Solutions partner.

References:

[1] http://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/16472-osha-loading-dock-requirements

[2] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/trucking_industry/loading_unloading.html#Industry_Specific_Hazards

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