Both truck drivers and warehouse workers are responsible for ensuring safety at the loading dock. The following provides safety tips for truckers and warehouse workers for use on the loading dock.

1. TIPS FOR
TRUCKERS
WATCH FOR
TRAILER CREEP.
Repeated loading and unloading can
cause trailers to shift slightly each time.
Eventually, this can increase the risk of
injury. Be sure to check restraints and
wheel chocks regularly.
USE DOCK PLATES
ONLY AS INTENDED.
Dock plates must be flush with the
surface underneath them to keep
movement to a minimum. Always
position dock plates to have a minimum
overlap of 8 inches at each end. Always
check to see that dock plates are
properly secured before using them.
CHECK LOAD CAPACITY
FOR DOCK PLATES.
Always check load plates for signs of
wear or corrosion before use. Be sure
that the plates will support the combined
weight of the cargo, the lifting device and
the people operating it.
ALWAYS WEAR
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
Goggles, gloves, boots and other
appropriate safety equipment should be
worn every time on the loading dock. Be
sure these items fit properly and are in
good condition.
WATCH FOR PEDESTRIANS.
Always be on the lookout for people
on foot whenever entering or exiting
the loading dock. Even experienced
warehouse workers may become
distracted and not notice a vehicle
in the dock area.
TIPS
TIPS FOR
WAREHOUSE WORKERS
ALWAYS FOLLOW
PROPER PROCEDURES.
Whatever the proper safety procedures
are for your facility, be sure to follow
them. Some common ones include never
lifting with your back, never running and
keeping loading areas adequately lit.
WEAR PROPER
SAFETY EQUIPMENT.
Wear goggles, gloves, reflective vests
and other safety equipment at all times.
Make sure these items are in good
condition and fit properly.
KEEP ALL FLOORS CLEAR & DRY.
Wet floors and clutter can cause
accidents. Make sure all surfaces on the
loading dock are kept clean and dry to
prevent falls and other serious injuries.
ALWAYS INSPECT
EQUIPMENT REGULARLY.
Forklifts and other loading equipment
must be inspected regularly. Any signs of
wear or corrosion should be noted. The
equipment should also be taken out of
use to prevent failure.
ENSURE EMPLOYEES
HAVE PROPER TRAINING.
Even if your employees have been
trained, make sure they receive routine
reminders of proper safety procedures.
Safety training should be a regular part of
the procedure for processing new hires.
FORKLIFT ACCIDENTS COST BUSINESSES MORE THAN
$135 million each year, ACCORDING TO THE
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION —
AND THAT’S ONLY ONE TYPE OF ACCIDENT THAT CAN
OCCUR ON THE LOADING DOCK.
Truck drivers and warehouse workers must take full responsibility for creating a
safe working environment in the warehouse and on the loading dock. This means
that following the proper safety procedures must be the highest possible priority.
This guide contains some basic safety tips for use on the loading dock.
Loading Dock
Safety
Tips
www.verduyntarps.com