Loading and unloading trailers safely

When demands at work are high, your loading dock can become a very busy place – filled with people and forklift traffic. 

To keep our cargo and our bodies safe, there are a few things we can do when loading and unloading trailers.

Loading and unloading trailers: a checklist to stay safe

Before moving anything onto or off trailers, ask yourself these safety questions:

1. Is there enough light to see clearly inside and outside the trailer?

2. Can the trailer support the weight of my forklift?

3. Have the materials shifted during transport and are the loads secure? 

4. Is the truck bed in good condition?

5. Is the loading area dry to prevent slipping and skidding of machinery or people?

6. Have the number of pedestrians been limited in the area?

7. Do the forklift operators have a clear view of the docks? 

What to do next  

If you can answer yes to each of the questions above, then:

• Secure the trailer and prevent movement by putting dock locks or wheel chocks in place

• Put a T-stand at the end of the trailer to stop it from tipping, if necessary

If you have any questions or see anything unsafe, talk to your supervisor. By staying alert and aware, you can go home safe at the end of the day.