Is your loading dock as safe as it can be? Studies show that 25 per cent of warehouse injuries occur on loading docks, so that’s an area where businesses can increase their efforts to keep employees protected. Temperature fluctuation and weather changes can cause increased risk to teams working in these areas, so addressing these concerns seasonally can help.

Spring

Increased seasonal precipitation can make surfaces slippery, adding a risk of injury to operations.

• Keeping this area as dry as possible, increasing signage usage, and quickly cleaning up spills like oil or water can help lower the risk of potential slip-and-fall accidents.
• As well, carefully inspect dock seals and shelters to ensure that they are performing efficiently and keeping hazardous weather conditions out of the building.

Summer

While the weather may not be an issue throughout the summer, this is a great time to address any other safety-related concerns.

• Forklift accidents can occur if the operator falls from the 4’ drop. Use clear signage and protect this drop with a safety barrier to help keep it secure.
• You may also consider limiting your ground traffic, monitoring patterns, and refining your processes to make traffic safer and more organized.

Fall

Freeze-thaw cycling can cause wear and tear damage to dock equipment, making them susceptible to failure and exposing staff to potential injury. As well, ice and snow can make it difficult to operate and increase slip and fall risks.

• Stock up on salt, ice melter, and the tools to ensure you are ready to remove accumulating snow this winter.
• Take a proactive approach by assessing equipment and making all repairs before winter comes, along with creating a plan to address slippery winter weather conditions.
• Also, address any clogged drains by removing leaves or debris to stop an accumulation of snow and ice once the colder weather arrives.

Winter

Winter brings its own unique challenges!

• Stay on top of the weather conditions to keep those shelters clear from snow and ice so the area can stay unobstructed, keeping hazardous weather outside your building.
• If you have seasonal matting, regularly cleaning and drying the mats helps to stop dirt and debris from being tracked throughout the building and making floors wet and slippery.

Keep your loading dock functioning and your staff safe with a four-season approach to maintenance.