Safe Dock Design

Since the dock area is a high-risk department in any warehouse, management must provide as many safeguards as possible. Much of the safety performance, as well as increased productivity, depends on proper design. 

Planning a safe dock should not be undertaken without the assistance of professional planners. Docks must be designed to accommodate various heights and widths of trailers. Since April 1983, the federal government has approved trailer widths up to 102 inches. 

This width requires dock planners to allow more spacing between each dock door. Dock seals and dock shelters must be purchased or modified to allow for the trailer width. More maneuvering room outside of the dock area is also needed trailers are now 48 feet and longer. Driveways, approaches, and turning areas must be properly designed for extended trailer size. 

The potential for a trailer to have a lower floor must also be considered in planning. Conventional trailer heights from the ground to the floor level of the trailer are 48 to 52 inches. High cube trucks have dimensions as low as 36 inches. One way to accommodate this height difference is by installing 30-inch-high dedicated docks. However, these docks can only be used for trailers that are compatible. 

Sloped approaches to docks can be a problem in the planning process. The correct dock height is important, and alternatives may have specific drawbacks. Portable ramps can elevate the trailer but serious consideration must be given to proper ramp size and safety. Truck levelers can be installed to adjust the trailer height to the dock. These installations are potentially expensive. Dock shelters, seals, and canopies must also be modified for new dock height design. 

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Before installing or redesigning dock areas, check with the product manufacturers to ensure safe design and overall safe working conditions in relation to the product. Always follow the manufacturer s guidelines for the care and use of the equipment. 

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