Warehouse and Loading Dock Safety
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Health & Safety (HSE)Warehouse and Loading Dock Safety

Warehouse and Loading Dock Safety

0.50 Hrs
SKU: RVCT-667

High noise levels, limited visibility, use of heavy equipment, and 24-hour operations can make warehouses and loading docks extremely dangerous work areas. This course discusses the hazards and safety guidelines associated with warehouses and loading docks, including personal protective equipment (PPE), the importance of housekeeping, mobile equipment safety, driving safety, fire safety equipment, and emergency procedures.

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Warehouse and Loading Dock Safety
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Course Details

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Explain the functions of warehouses and loading docks
  • Describe common hazard-causing behaviors
  • Determine which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for certain hazards
  • Explain the hazards associated with automated machinery and robotic systems
  • List the basic lockout/tagout steps
  • Describe methods for keeping pedestrians safe
  • Identify safe forklift operation recommendations
  • List the steps of emergency procedures
  • Describe good housekeeping practices

Specs

Course Level
Intermediate
Languages
English, Polish
Compatibility
Audio, Video
Based on:
Industry Standards and Best Practices

Author | Vector Solutions

With over two decades of experience designing advanced 3D animated courseware and developing our proprietary learning management software, we pride ourselves by having developed over 1,000 safety and operations training modules, which have helped train over 250,000 workers worldwide. Our highly experienced team provides the industry with a simple and high-quality means of training their workforce. Whether your team consists of 25 people or an enterprise with thousands, we’re here to help.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What loading dock procedures should you be sure to follow to avoid increased risk of collisions and falls?

Always be sure that: dock areas are clean and clear to avoid slipping hazards, dock edges are painted, curbed, or guarded for better visibility, ramp and dock plates are curbed or guarded, and that stairs and ladders have approved rails.

What are some of the most common hazards in warehouse and loading dock areas?

Some of the most common hazards are: failure to use required PPE, improper lifting and repetitive motions, failure to follow energy control and lockout/tagout procedures, unsafe forklift operation, improper material handling and storage, ineffective or absent guarding of conveyors and opening in floors and walls, inadequate fire safety equipment and emergency procedures, and poor housekeeping.

What are some common types of PPE required for workers in a warehouse and loading dock to wear?

Common PPE for warehouse and loading dock workers include: hearing protection, safety glasses, work gloves, steel-toe shoes or boots, and high visibility clothing.

What should you be sure to do when manually moving or lifting materials?

Always be sure to take scheduled breaks to walk or stretch, use proper posture, use ergonomic mats when standing for a long time, follow safe lifting procedures, wear a lumbar support belt as needed, and get help or use lifting equipment for heavy or awkward items.

What are some pedestrian hazards that can be caused by working in a close proximity of a warehouse or loading dock?

Limited visibility, high noise levels, and miscommunication can all lead to pedestrian injuries and fatalities.

What precautions should be taken when using a forklift to transfer items to and from the warehouse to trucks and railcars?

When driving a forklift, always: wear a seatbelt; maintain a clear line of sight and always look in the direction of travel; drive at a safe speed (usually no faster than 5 mph); observe all intersections, corners, and areas of limited visibility; avoid creating pinch and crush points for other workers; avoid overloading the forks or overextending the mast; stay clear of loading dock edges.

What are common hazards associated with truck trailer and railcar loading and unloading?

Common hazards include: truck trailers or railcars moving unexpectedly, unattached truck trailers becoming unbalanced and unpending, and unsecured dock plates moving unexpectedly.

What can happen to improperly stored materials?

Improperly stored materials can fall ignite, or react to chemicals, injuring workers and damaging property.

What are some good housekeeping habits your facility should always follow?

Cleaning up any and all liquid spills (oil, grease, or water), keep emergency exits and equipment clear from obstructions at all times, keep pedestrian walkways free of potential tripping hazards, and keep the shipping office clean and organized.

Sample Video Transcript

Some of the most common hazards in warehouse and loading dock areas arise from failure to use required PPE, improper lifting and repetitive motions, failure to follow energy control and lockout-tagout procedures. Unsafe forklift or other mobile equipments operation, improper material handling and storage, ineffective or absent guarding of conveyors and openings in floors and walls. Inadequate fire safety equipment and emergency procedures, and poor housekeeping. Fortunately, the injuries, fatalities, and costly property damage as a result of these hazards can be avoided with proper training and effective oversight.

Additional Resources

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration – http://www.osha.gov
  • OSHA Pocket Guide – https://www.osha.gov/Publications/3220_Warehouse.pdf
  • OSHA Industrial Safety Training – http://oshaindustrialsafetytraining.com
  • Warehouse Safety Checklists – http://oshaindustrialsafetytraining.com/j/index.php/warehouse-safety-checklists
  • Safety Services Company – http://www.safetyservicescompany.com
  • Warehouse Safety – http://www.safetyservicescompany.com/topic/ppe/warehouse-safety-general-guidelines-and-osha-citations/

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