Do you know the 3 biggest safety risks associated with loading docks according to OSHA?

We recently sat down with our OSHA Specialist to learn what their data says about the three biggest safety risks associated with loading docks.

1. Falls: Loading docks are raised platforms that can be several feet above the ground, and workers can easily fall off the edge, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Falls can occur when loading or unloading materials, when workers are distracted, or when they fail to use appropriate safety equipment.
   
   
2. Struck-by Accidents: Workers on loading docks are at risk of being struck by forklifts, trucks, or other equipment used for loading and unloading. These accidents can occur when drivers are not paying attention, when loads are not secured properly, or when workers are in the wrong place at the wrong time.
   
   
3. Early Truck Departures: Trucks departing away from the loading dock too early can cause serious injury to your employees. Truck drivers often assume that the unloading process may be complete and pull away too soon. Putting in the safety measures such as lights to communicate with truck drivers will ensure that they know when it is safe to depart from a loading dock and minimize risks at your facility.

​Here's what OSHA recommends to prevent accidents and minimize risks: 

• Implement safety measures such as providing appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment), training workers on safe practices, and enforcing traffic patterns and other safety rules on the loading dock. 
• ​Employers should also ensure that workers are properly trained to operate machinery and equipment and that they follow established safety procedures.