Safe Use Of Loading Ramps

This course is designed to provided delegates with the skills and knowledge to be able to use a mobile yard ramp safely and efficiently.

It covers in detail the safe working procedure of a ramp and highlights potential dangers if used incorrectly.

Mobile Yard Ramp Inspection Sheet Document. 

Mobile Yard Ramps Study Notes Document. 

Mobile Yard Ramp HSE Notes Document. 

Operationally there are two distinct styles of ramps to suit your preferred method of entry and towing:

• Integrated entry type: Constant slope along full incline section of ramp. Movement by standard FLT fork secured into towing hitch.
• Folding entry type: Entry ramps fold up to allow towing behind a FLT via external towing pocket. Fixed entry angle to ramp, regardless of ramp height before transition onto main incline section.

A high proportion of both theory and practical exercises, this is followed by three tests of theory knowledge, pre-use test and practical demonstrations.

All models include:

• Hydraulic operation through the use of a double acting manual handpump (electrical pump upgrade available for most ramps) (see fig.1).
• Serrated open grid deck for positive traction in all weather conditions (see fig.2).
• A full width, 300mm deep exit lip for location into vehicle, and 300mm high side rails (see fig.3)
• 1.8 m of safety chain on each side for securing ramp to container or trailer (see fig.4).

• This is a ‘trapped key’ control system designed to further improve the safety when operating a yardramp.
• An air-hose lock is locked onto the red emergency ‘suzie’ air hose connector on your trailer preventing the trailer from being moved until the loading operation is complete and the lock is removed, preventing vehicle drive-offs when the yardramp is in use.
• The coded key used to lock the air-hose is then used to release a chain, allowing access to the yardramp only when the trailer is correctly parked and isolated.
• The drivers can retain their vehicles keys but importantly, the yardramp operatives are in control of the situation at all times.
• Alternative solutions are also available for rigid trailers and European air hose connections.
• Similar systems can also be integrated into doors, levellers, traffic lights and other materials handling equipment to fit your site procedures.

A typical system consists of:

1. Access to the ramp is prevented with locked chain.
2. The air hose lock is connected to the red ‘suzie’ air hose connector. Then, and only then, is the key released from the air hose lock.
3. This coded key is then inserted into the chain lock on the ramp to release the chain.
4. This then allows access to the ramp and (un)loading operations can commence.
5. Once (un)loading is completed, the chain is re-inserted into the lock and the key can then be removed.
6. The key is then used to release the air hose lock from the trailer and allow the vehicle to drive away.

• TWC-1 – for most HGV’s
  • Heavy-duty rubber Moulded Vehicle Wheel Chock.
  • Includes rope handle for carrying/positioning.
  • Anti-theft chain is available if required.

• TWC-8 – for use with our range of yardramps / contrainer ramps.
  • Small rubber moulded Yardramp Wheel Chocks.
  • Includes rope handle for carrying/positioning.
  • A low-cost and efficient way of preventing the movement of Yardramps, when both stored and in use.

Recommended if operators need to walk on the ramp. Anti-slip Grit flooring may also be required to the entry and exit sections of the ramp.

The warehouse and its surrounding area is one of the most dangerous working environments and protecting your employees, as well as visiting operatives, should be your number one priority.
 

Choosing the correct loading solution for your specific needs, be that a modular dock, a mobile loading ramp, or a complete loading dock, is important in creating a safe working environment and instilling confidence in your staff. However, it is only the first step.
 

Loading dock accessories, from lights and wheel chocks, to guidance signs and safety mirrors, add that extra level of safety making the loading environment even more secure.

DOCK LIGHTS

Dock lights are an essential addition to any loading dock. They help to illuminate dark corners within the vehicle where natural light does not reach. Overall, dock lights provide staff with a clearer view of their working environment and can help to prevent potential accidents.

SAFETY BARRIER SYSTEMS

Providing your staff with safe areas to work via Safety Barrier Systems which separate your employees from the movement of mechanical handling equipment, is becoming more and more important as facilities become busier and time pressures increase.

TRAILER SAFETY SUPPORTS

Trailer Safety supports are designed to provide additional support under the fifth wheel of a parked container when the cab has been removed and the loading and unloading process is taking place.

LOADING DOCK SAFETY INTERLOCKS

While every effort can be made to control driver actions the introduction of Safety Interlocks to the loading dock and yard ramps provides another layer of protection by locking onto the red emergency ‘suzie’ air hose connector on your trailer.

WHEEL CHOCKS

Wheel chocks are an affordable, yet reliable and effective way of minimising the movement of a vehicle whilst it is parked or as its being loaded and unloaded. Although we know every measure is taken to ensure a vehicle is parked safely, accidents can occur. But these small additions to your loading dock can minimise these incidents.

TRAFFIC CONTROL

One of the most potentially dangerous features of a warehouse is the constant stream of – often large – delivery vehicles. Controlling where these vehicles go and ensuring it is clear when they are stationary or on the move is an effective way of keeping staff safe.

Clearly marked signs directing traffic around a site will help delivery drivers know exactly where they need to go. Traffic light systems, both around the site and on the loading dock itself, will help to control the flow of traffic, as well as inform staff working around the vehicle when that vehicle is stationary and when it is about to move.

Strategically placed mirrors will also provide drivers and staff alike with a clearer view of their working environment.

Ribble Valley Training Centre has years of experience in advising customers on the best way to manage their traffic flow effectively, how to keep their operatives safe, and how to ensure they provide the safest working environment possible – and we can help you too