Loading docks are an integral piece of any warehouse operation. They are the primary way to get goods in and out of your facility. But if you aren’t prepared for any and all situations, disaster could strike. Vehicle restraints systems are one of those preventative measures you need to have for worst-case scenarios.
A vehicle restraint can help keep a truck in place while it is pulled up to the loading dock. Should something bump your dock, ramps, or even the truck, calamity could ensue. The truck or trailer could start to drift away from the dock. A vehicle restraint will keep the truck anchored in place during the loading or unloading process, helping avoid any mishaps.
The bottom line is vehicle restraints are a necessary part of your loading dock equipment if you want to run a reputable and safe operation. These devices protect the product, your dock, your warehouse, the truck, and the people working on the dock.
Benefits Of Using Vehicle Restraints At Your Loading Dock
The primary benefit of vehicle restraints is safety. These restraints improve safety for everyone on the loading dock. This allows everyone to feel confident while loading and unloading trailers and trucks. Drivers aren’t able to pull away from the dock early. Forklifts can’t slip and fall through any spaces, and the issue of “trailer creep” has been eliminated. This method of injury reduction is beneficial to your employees and your bottom line.
With vehicle restraints, you also don’t have to worry about wheel chocks being appropriately used (wheel chocks are better than nothing and can be used in conjunction with other devices). Your restraints will already keep the vehicle in place. You can use these devices in tandem with stop & go light systems for your truckers. Vehicle restraints are widely available and affordable.
Types Of Vehicle Restraints
You have more than one choice available to you for a loading dock restraint. Let’s review your options.
Wheel chocks– these are barriers placed behind the wheels of the truck. These restraints are manually set. Most effective when used in conjunction with other devices.
Mechanical restraints– seen used in addition to wheel chocks. These are operated by a mechanical arm. These are also manually placed and used.
Electrical restraints– utilizes a hook style arm to restrain the vehicle. Manually placed but operated by electricity.
Hydraulic restraints– lift uses pressure to secure the vehicle into place. Barrier or recessed options available.
Some docks keep a couple of different systems on hand. If you need to load/unload and you don’t have power, having non-electric options available permits your operations to continue. While electrical and hydraulic systems appear to be the most effective, don’t discount using a combination of the other methods.
Invest In Vehicle Restraints From Authority Dock & Door
To protect your people and your product, invest in quality vehicle restraints from Authority Dock & Door. Our sales teams are ready to help you decide what product works best for your company and dock. Contact us today for a consultation, and follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on all the latest news.
