Loading docks can be dangerous places. In fact, about a quarter of all reported warehouse injuries occurring on loading docks. The causes of dock accidents vary, but regular inspections can minimize or eliminate hazards and keep loading dock operations running smoothly (check out 5 Loading Dock Catastrophes to get a sense of what can go wrong).
There’s no set rule for how often to inspect your loading docks. There is, however, plenty of evidence that suggest regular dock inspections and maintenance will help you identify small problems before they become big ones. With that in mind, you should perform three different kind of loading dock inspections, each at a different interval.
1. Daily Inspections
This type of inspection looks at the day-to-day operations that take place at the loading dock and ensures it's a safe place to work.
Daily inspections should check on things like:
Quarterly inspections are a bit more in-depth than the ones performed daily. The types of things you'll confirm during your quarterly inspection include:
The yearly inspection should look at "bigger picture" items, such as whether the dock levelers are functioning efficiently and whether dock seals are in good condition and offer a tight fit. It's also a good idea look for new hazards and opportunities for improvement.
The annual inspection is a great time to host a loading dock safety refresher for employees.