10 Tips to Prevent Your Loading Dock Leveler Problem

Loading dock equipment; As with dock levelers, proper use and installation is required according to the manufacturer's instructions. All dock leveler is not identical. Each loading dock leveler is designed to handle specific load capacity and performance. Problems usually occur when operating instructions are not followed and the person operating the dock leveler has not been properly trained for the operation of the port equipment.

To eliminate your concerns and help you identify the problem of your loading dock, we developed this "10 Supertips" to avoid the Loading dock leveler problem.

1. Familiarize yourself with the loading dock equipment.
Note that it is the responsibility of the manufacturer to provide important details regarding safety and precautions, product features, maintenance schedule, troubleshooting, component failure, warranty and telephone number. where you can reach them, a problem with your dock leveler. Be sure to read and understand the manual carefully. It is very important to get used to the dock leveler and its controls before handling it.

2. Select the appropriate person to operate the dock leveler.

• The person who is responsible for the operation of the dock leveler would have received adequate training and developed a solid understanding of the operation of the loading bridges.
• Should be physically fit to operate the device and have a positive attitude to work (the device does not work under the influence of drugs or alcohol).
• After selecting the right person, make sure you have read and understood the instruction manual. 

3. Practical safety precautions during operation

• Always remember to unplug or remove the safety device when using a transport vehicle restraint.
• Make sure warning signs are intact and never removed. Never use the device if no other unauthorized person has been transported outside the work area.
• Make sure the work area is free of foreign objects that could cause an accident.
• Stay away from the dock leveler when the trailer is approaching or leaving the loading dock.
• Avoid placing hands or body parts in moving parts.
• Do not use a damaged dock leveler and have a reliable shore service company inspect and repair the equipment before using it.
• Always remember that the lip of the dock leveler must reach at least 4 inches on the truck.
• Keep a safe distance on all side edges.
• Do not use a platform leveling device if the height of the truck is obviously higher or lower.
• Do not overload the dock leveler.
• Do not leave equipment or objects unattended on the dock leveler.

4. Make sure your dock leveler is ready for use before servicing.

• Arrange the dock leveler correctly. vertically with the lip extended.
• The service supports must be safely placed in the lowered position.

5. Use safety measures during maintenance.

• Practice the "Lockout / Tag Out" procedure. Turn off the unit, especially when welding the unit. Lock the device with an OSHA approved lock. Note that the only person who needs access to the key is the person waiting for the device. Signs and warning signs must be placed on the workstation.
• Stay away from the dock leveler and lip when working in front of the dock leveler.
• Never sand or weld if flammable materials are present. During this work, keep a fire extinguisher near you.
• Check the instruction manual to limit the hydraulic structure of the platform and bleed.

6. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the cart and platform. 

• Check that the roller conveyor is correctly shaped and free of unknown objects.
• Remove any equipment that can be connected to the dock leveler.
• Make sure that the lifting brackets and the mounting structure are intact. The supports must deliberately switch to the jerk assembly.
• Install the truck slowly.
• The installation of the car depends on its type; If there is a manual side shift, you can weld it to roller conveyor stops. Then you can now work on the electrical connections.
• Use chains and hoists to transport the dock leveler. Choose a lifting device that can support the capacity of your leveler.

7. Proper installation of the control panel and cabling 10 Practical tips to avoid problems loading the docking station. Panel.

• Practice the "Lockout / Tag Out" procedure. Before soldering the device always reminds that it is necessary to separate a ground wire and any source of energy. A licensed electrician is the only person authorized to perform all electrical work.
• Mount the push button 48 inches in height. (Distance from the dock floor to the base of the control panel.)
• The electrical wires in the box and the power cable of the dock leveler must be connected together.

8. Make sure the posters are easy to read and located in specific areas.

• It is very suggestive to place placards near the control box using a nylon strap. You can also attach the shield at eye level to the wall to the left of the dock leveler.

9. If your dock levelers need troubleshooting to make important preparations.

• Lift the platform, turn off all power sources, and disconnect them.
• Each fuse on the control panel must be checked carefully. Replace those that are broken immediately.
• Place barricades and safety warnings in the work area.

10. All service, maintenance, and replacement of parts must be documented.

• Written documentation will help you to continue to be responsible for the product warranty.

To know more about dock leveler visit our web page:
http://www.nihva.com/dock-leveller.html