In an earlier blog post we discussed the importance of Vehicle Restraints, and that they should be an integral part of any companies dock safety plan. So hopefully now the question is not whether a vehicle restraint is needed, but which kind should you get?
To recap, benefits of installing vehicle restraints include preventing:
- Premature Departure
- Trailer Creep
- Landing Gear Collapse
- Trailer Upending
So you’ve decided to install vehicle restraints at your loading dock bays, great, but which kind is best for your operation? There are a few types available from Blue Giant to choose from:
- Hydraulic
- Engineered for the toughest of applications.
- Choose from barrier-style and recessed models.
- Operated by multi-functional Blue Genius™ Gold Series II control panel.
- Offers flexible engagement range.
- Electric
- Features electro-mechanical hook style arm design.
- Positive holding ability.
- Sustainable operation.
- Can be used to service a wide variety of trailers.
- Mechanical
- Restraint is engaged and released by a single detachable control rod.
- Maintains secure hold even during power outages.
- System can be upgraded to include a lights communication package.
- Wheel Chocks
- Basic protection to help prevent accidental truck separation during loading and unloading.
- Choose from laminated and molded versions.
- Wheel Restraints
- Help accommodate challenging configurations including hydraulic lift gates and damaged or missing rear impact guards.
- Available in both hydraulic and mechanical models.
- Aids in easy and accurate trailer positioning.
- Provides safe and reliable wheel engagement.
To aid in your decision, here are a few questions to consider before deciding which restraint is right for you.
- Dock layout and height
- Number of trucks serviced daily at each dock position.
- Types of trucks that will need to be restrained at the dock.
- Will any of the trucks have any special or unusual configurations?
- Type and speed of any lift trucks, electric or manual pallet jacks that may be used in the loading or unloading process.
- Types of loading conditions, such as weather.
- Your budget.
With several vehicle restraint models choices to choose from, it probably is best to consult an expert to help you make the best decision for your specific operation.
