Dock boards are an important piece of dock equipment. They are the loading ramps that lay from the dock to the truck to help make loading and unloading a truck or a semi-trailer safe. Dock boards have weight capacities anywhere from six thousand to forty thousand pounds. Dock boards are made of a very heavy-duty steel that can withstand these heavy loads being dragged across. Different from aluminum dock plates, dock boards are designed for vehicles such as forklifts to be driven across them, as well as people, hand dollies, and the products from the shipment. It is essential, then, that the dock equipment can hold up under extreme duress. Dock boards are built with side bumpers. Along with providing vehicle runoffs or slips off the edge, these curbs add even more additional support and help increase the weight capacity.
Every year, there are hundreds of accidents because the dock edge was not level with the truck that equipment or shipments were being loaded on to or off of. It is very easy for a forklift operator to not see the gap and fall through the gap, potentially causing serious injury. Dock levelers are a type of dock equipment that adjusts the height difference that may exist between the dock and the bed of the truck, getting rid of any gap that may exist.
In loading docks where truck and forklift traffic ranges from five feet below to five feet above dock level, edge of dock levelers are the perfect tool to ensure safe loading. Edge of dock levelers are the most simple to install of all categories of levelers. They are also designed so that human error in installation is not a risk factor. The process of installing this dock equipment is so easy that mistakes in setting it up don’t happen. A mechanical spring operation system guarantees that the leveler will be positioned correctly each time that it is used. Molded bumpers and lightweight materials make lifting this dock equipment much gentler on the body and only requires one person to set up.
Another piece of dock equipment that can provide important safety measures are dock bumpers. Dock bumpers are made of rubber and reinforced with rubber. Often, impact damage can occur as a shipment is backed up to the loading dock. This dock equipment provides a buffer to help prevent dings, dents and damage. These bumpers are surprisingly durable and can withstand impacts day in and day out. Dock bumpers can be installed using mounted brackets or by welding them into place. This incredibly simple piece of dock equipment can save thousands of dollars annually by preventing damage in shipments.
While it may seem unnecessary to invest in plates, dock boards, or even bumpers, you will be grateful you did once you see the accidents that have been prevented. Mishaps can be avoided by taking these safety measures and money will be saved in the long run.