Loading Dock Safety

The loading dock combines some of a warehouse's highest-consequence hazards in one small area: a fall edge, heavy equipment in tight quarters, and a trailer that can move unexpectedly while someone's inside it. Most dock incidents come down to one of those three things.

A trailer that separates from the dock — because it wasn't chocked, or pulled away early — can turn a routine load into a serious fall or crush incident in seconds.

Key points

• Never step onto a trailer that hasn't been chocked and secured, or where the dock lock/restraint isn't engaged.
• Confirm the trailer's brakes are set and communicate with the driver before loading or unloading begins.
• Treat the dock edge like any other fall hazard — stay aware of it, especially when the dock plate isn't in place.
• Keep the dock plate rated for the load and equipment crossing it, and inspect it before use.
• Sound the horn and look before backing a forklift or pallet jack toward the dock edge.
• Report a dock leveler, restraint, or light communication system that isn't working — don't work around it.

Discussion questions

• Do we have a consistent process for confirming a trailer is secured before anyone steps inside?
• Has anyone seen a trailer shift or start to pull away while being loaded?
• Are the dock lights/communication signals with drivers clear to everyone?