Slips and falls pose a significant risk in the industrial workplace, particularly in loading dock areas. With heavy equipment, significant traffic, lots of people, and moving parts, accidents are likely with the possibility of severe injury or even death. Precipitation or condensation in the loading dock area is not uncommon which can result in slippery conditions for workers. This article presents four effective ways to enhance loading dock safety by mitigating slippery conditions and ensuring a safer working environment for all.
1. Overhead canopy
To shield your loading dock from the elements, consider installing an overhead canopy. Positioned above the dock door and extending approximately 4 to 5 feet over the trailer, a canopy provides protection against precipitation such as rain and snow. A long canopy can provide coverage for all dock doors while smaller separate canopies will do the same for individual doors.
Where to find overhead canopies: Upside Innovations LLC
2. Dock door seals or shelters
Dock door seals and shelters play a crucial role in maintaining a tight seal and preventing precipitation from entering the facility. Dock door seals are placed around the door and compress when a trailer presses against them, creating an airtight seal. It is important to ensure there is no light coming through, as it indicates a poor seal and potential water intrusion. Dock shelters are composed of fabric curtains and fiberglass stays, and offer enhanced enclosure for larger dock door openings serving various trailer heights.
Where to find dock seals and shelters: McCormick Equipment Company Inc., RiteHite, Pentalift
3. Impactable doors
Impactable doors minimize damage to dock doors caused by forklifts or trailers. Unlike non-impactable doors that can easily be bumped off track requiring costly maintenance, impactable doors easily snap back into place after impact. This reduces the risk of moisture intrusion during prolonged door repair periods.
Where to find impactable doors: RiteHite, Rice Equipment Co., Inc.
4. HVLS fan
Combat the moisture buildup inside your warehouse with the help of High Volume, Low Speed (HVLS) fans. When humid air from outside enters the facility and condenses on cooler surfaces, a phenomenon known as “sweating slab syndrome” occurs. HVLS fans effectively reduce moisture in the air by moving large volumes of air at low speeds, dissipating the moisture and creating a drier environment.
Where to find HVLS fans: RiteHite, Humongous Fan
By implementing these four simple and practical solutions, you can significantly reduce the chance of a slip and fall loading dock accident, creating a safer working environment for employees. By installing an overhead canopy, ensuring tight dock door seals or shelters, opting for impactable doors, and incorporating HVLS fans to mitigate moisture-related risks. Prioritizing loading dock safety not only prevents costly accidents but also promotes the well-being and productivity of your workforce. At DockStep, we are dedicated to providing innovative loading dock access solutions to streamline your operations and enhance safety. Ready to get started? Check out our dock safety checklist and contact us today to discover how we can assist you in optimizing your loading dock for maximum efficiency and peace of mind.