Loading and unloading docks
Loading docks remain the most efficient method for loading and unloading goods. At Alapont Logistics, we are leading loading dock equipment manufacturers, offering a diverse range of leveller models tailored to meet unique client requirements. From hydraulic to mechanical and special dock levellers, we provide custom-designed solutions for specific dock characteristics.
Our comprehensive product and service offerings include manufacturing and installation of loading docks and components, such as lifting levelers, insulating shelters, and doors, ensuring enhanced efficiency and functionality.
Loading docks models
A suitable solution for any loading dock. It is characterised by its strength and safety.
The ideal solution for docks that require strict temperature control and high levels of cleanliness.
This is the best option for reduced spaces where a conventional leveler is not viable.
This consists of a formwork box, which comes as a kit along with the leveler chosen, eliminating the need to build a pit.
This adapts to the space of the existing dockwithout needing any or needing very little construction work. A fast and economic solution.
Sturdy and hard-wearing. Does not require the construction of a pit or a power supply.
This is the best option for reduced spaces where a conventional leveler is not viable.
Adapted to the characteristics of the dock, whatever the manufacturer. No need to carry out construction work.
Solution when the construction of the buildings does not allow the installation of internal levelers or a pit is not envisaged for the docks.
An effective solution when a loading dock that allows the required tasks to be performed is not available.
Practical Guide to Loading Docks
Loading and unloading docks are crucial logistics zones where goods are transferred between industries or warehouses. The key component is loading dock ramps, bridging the height difference between the warehouse floor and transport vehicles, ensuring a seamless connection.
The loading zone is composed of several elements:
X-ray of a loading dock
Preventive Measures in the Design of a Loading Dock
The optimal length of the loading hopper – without maneuvering space – is calculated as follows:
Vehicle: Most vehicles allow for a slope of up to 10%. In the case of short coupling systems, the maximum slope is 7%.
Height difference between the road surface and the height of the ramp.
Ideally, the loading docks should be above the loading surface of the type of vehicle that uses it most frequently. This provides a favorable incline angle and prevents trucks from deviating from the stops. In the case of mixed transports, that is, with different loading surface heights, an average ramp height should be chosen, based on the most common heights.
What risk factors exist in the loading and unloading area?
The loading and unloading dock area requires certain safety conditions to prevent accidents for operators, maintenance personnel, and all other external users near the loading point.
You can access this link to see the risk factors. Among them, we can enumerate the following:
- Entrapment of people between a vehicle and the loading dock or other vehicles.
- Falls of people on the same level or from different levels.
- Fall or overturning of a handling equipment.
- Fall of the load or part of it during the transshipment.
- Collisions between vehicles or pedestrian accidents.
- Trailer tipping over.
Preventive safety measures
| Risk | Measures |
| Fall of persons at the same level. | All surfaces of the loading dock and vehicles must be kept clean and free of objects before any loading or unloading operation begins. If any spills occur, they must be cleaned up immediately before continuing operations. |
| Fall or overturn of handling equipment. | The sudden movement of the vehicle due to brake failure or a miscommunication between the truck driver and the loading/unloading personnel must be prevented with locking systems. |
| Overturning of the trailer. | Before starting the loading operations, it must be verified that the resistance of the support surface of the two trailer supports without the tractor head is sufficient.
It is recommended to use a stabilizing support for the trailer. |
| Entrapment of people between a vehicle and the loading dock. | -There must be stops that leave a minimum space of 0.50 free between the vertical of the dock and the rear part of the truck box.
– Enable an exit, for example, a step ladder between the lower and upper level. When the dock is very long, it should be equipped with two stairs. |
| Falling from different levels | – Position the truck in relation to the level of the dock, not allowing for gaps.
– When there are no vehicles being loaded or unloaded, the corresponding loading station should be closed. |
The applicable regulations/norms
Among the main technical and regulatory requirements that affect these loading dock facilities, we can find the following:
Technical regulations
- UNE-EN 1398:2010 Leveling ramps. Safety requirements. A.E.N.O.R.
- UNE-EN 349:1994+A1:2008 Safety of machinery. Minimum gaps to avoid crushing of parts of the human body. A.E.N.O.R.
- UNE-EN 13.241-1:2004+A1:2011 Industrial, commercial, garage doors and gates – Product Standard – Part 1: Products without fire resistance or smoke control characteristics. A.E.N.O.R.
Installation of ramps for loading and unloading docks by Alapont Logistics
CE marking and signage
Regarding the marking of loading dock ramps, the following data must be displayed visibly and legibly:
- Name and complete address of the manufacturer and, where applicable, their authorized representative.
- Year of manufacture, that is, the year in which the manufacturing process was completed. Additionally, for loading ramps with external power supply, details of the required power supply (voltage, frequency, power).
- Capacity of the leveler ramp.
- Name of the machine.
- Regarding the signaling, a visible warning that is easily and permanently fixed, indicating “no personnel allowed” and with lettering of a minimum height of 15mm, should be provided saying: “Do not stand under this leveler ramp unless it is mechanically blocked”
- Serial or manufacturing number.
Maintenance, inspections and commissioning
Article 3.5 of Royal Decree 1215/1997 states the obligation to carry out proper maintenance of equipment, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or, failing that, with the equipment’s characteristics, taking into account the conditions of use or any circumstance that may deteriorate or misalign it. Therefore, the machinery must function properly for the time for which it was designed.
The maintenance of all components of loading and unloading docks must be carried out in accordance with the Instruction Manual of each manufacturer. Likewise, the article 3.5 itself indicates that “maintenance, repair or transformation operations that involve a specific risk for workers can only be entrusted to personnel specially trained for this purpose.”
You can find more relevant information about the maintenance of loading docks, as well as the technical requirements for external personnel access for loading and unloading in storage facilities in the following article: Maintenance of loading and unloading dock.
