Loading and Unloading Trucks & Trailers | 1
Powered Industrial Trucks (PIT)
Loading and Unloading Trucks & Trailers
PIT Loading & Unloading Trucks & Trailers
One of the most dangerous operations involving forklifts is the loading and unloading of trucks, trailers and railroad cars. The reason is the change from the stable floor of the warehouse to the unstable floor or decking of the truck or trailer. Not only may the vehicle being entered be unstable, but the means of going from the warehouse to the vehicle by way of a dockplate can also be dangerous.
Set the Brake
The first rule is to be sure that the brakes are set on the vehicle to be unloaded. This could range from air brakes or spring-loaded brakes on larger semi-trailers to handbrakes on other vehicles. It is also a good idea to chock the wheels of the vehicle.
Secure the Vehicle to the Dock
Secure the vehicle to the dock by using a mechanical dock loading system, if available. The combination of the trailer or vehicle brakes, the mechanical dock lock and the wheel chocks are to keep the trailer or truck from moving whenever the forklift enter and leaves or slams on the brakes when picking up a load. This rocking motion may cause the trailer or vehicle to move away from the dock.
Install the Dockboard or Plate
After the vehicle restraint system is in place, the next item to install and check is the dockboard. This metal plate makes a ramp between the warehouse floor and the trailer floor. After installation of the dockboard, the operator should check it to make sure it is square with the trailer and overlaps both the trailer and the loading dock sufficiently to support the forklift.
Check the Condition of the Trailer Floor
Next, the operator should check the condition of the bed of the vehicle to be driven onto. If the bed of the trailer has weak, rotten or otherwise unsafe areas on it, the operator should not drive on it.
Many accidents involving forklifts, including injuries and fatalities, have occurred because the forklift operator did not check the floor condition prior to driving onto it.
A lighter weight pallet jack may have to be used to load and unload trailers if floor conditions warrant that the heavier lift truck stay out of the trailer.
Make Sure the Trailer is Supported
Check to make sure that the trailer is attached to the tractor, or that supports or jackstands have been placed under the nose of the trailer for support. Upending can occur if sufficient support is not in place.
Ensure Sufficient Lighting
Check the lighting in the trailer or truck before driving into it. If there is poor lighting, turn on the trailer’s own lights or position additional loading dock lights.
Employee Training
29 CFR 1910.178(1) requires employers to train forklift operators.
Training Tips
Cover any company specific forklift operator training issues. Discuss the types of loads operators will be handling. Discuss any forklift accidents related to loading and unloading trucks or trailers that have occurred in your facility. Ask your operators about any close calls they may have witnessed or experienced.
For more information see:
- 29 CFR 1910.178(1)—Powered industrial Trucks, Operator Training
- ANSI/ASME B56.1-2000 Safety Standard for Low Lift and High Lift Trucks
PIT Loading & Unloading Trucks & Trailers
Handout
One of the most dangerous operations involving forklifts is the loading and unloading of trucks, trailers and railroad cars. The reason is the change from the stable floor of the loading dock to the unstable deck of the truck, trailer or railcar. Not only may the vehicle being driven into be unstable, but the dockplate itself can be a hazard.
Before Unloading . . .
Talk to your supervisor if you have any questions about the company policy on how to safely load and unload trucks and trailers.
Powered Industrial Trucks—Loading and Unloading Trucks & Trailers Sign–Off Sheet
The employees of ______Company Name______, have taken part in a training session Powered Industrial Trucks—Loading and Unloading Trucks & Trailers. The session covered:
- The hazards of loading and unloading trucks and trailers.
- The steps operators can take to protect themselves from those hazards.
- How to inspect the truck and trailer for hazards.
- Who to go to for more information or to have questions answered.
Date of Training: / Facility:
Employee Signature / PRINT NAME
______
Supervisor’s Signature