Dock safety

Photo: ©yaalan | Adobestock

Loading docks are full of forklifts and other material-handling devices, powered or unpowered. Two common serious accidents involving powered industrial trucks are backing off the dock and overturns (turning too fast with the wheels too close to the edge of the dock).

Before unloading a truck

• Double check to be sure that the truck brakes are set.
• Chock the rear wheels of the truck. Chocking the rear wheels keeps the trailer from moving away from the dock when you enter the truck.

Loading dock tips

• Be alert when working on the dock.
• Don’t speed; watch out for other trucks and workers.
• Look for boxes, cartons, drums, crates or skids that are not in their proper places. Also watch for items that extend beyond the aisles.
Follow established traffic lines and storage boundary lines.
• Be aware of which materials should not be stored close together — for example, chemicals whose vapors could be harmful if combined.
• Be especially alert for overhead hazards, like pipes, structural members, lights, door casings, high cable wires and signs.
• Know where fire extinguishers are located and what type of extinguisher to use on different types of fires.
• Follow rules regarding the handling and storage of flammable materials.
• Pay attention to the U.S. Department of Transportation official warning signs, symbols and labels on containers.

In case of a spill

• Identify the spilled material.
• Evacuate the area or don Personal Protection Equipment if necessary.
• Notify other workers and your supervisor of the spill.
• Contain the spill with appropriate materials or devices.
Stop the source of the spill.
• Clean up the spill.

Source: Ohio State University Extension