If you've spent any time on a loading dock, you've likely noticed how dangerous a place it can be. Between heavy machinery, loud noises, and unknown substances, there are countless opportunities for things to go wrong.
Hazards for workers on loading docks should be taken seriously by every company, but unfortunately, that's not always the case. If you’ve been injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers compensation benefits or an injury claim.
Potential Loading Dock Hazards
If you or someone you know has experienced an injury on a loading dock, you may wonder what the potential loading dock hazards are. Being familiar with this information is essential if you work in these spaces. By being aware of what could go wrong, you'll be able to determine if the company has reasonable procedures to protect its workers.
Falling and Slipping
It's not uncommon for loading docks to become slippery. Liquids from a shipment can overspill. If the port is outside, it can become wet and icy. There's also a high chance of tripping over boxes, equipment, and other objects commonly found in warehouses and loading docks.
In other words, losing your footing in these areas is easy. That's why it's so crucial for companies to use secure storage areas, wet floor signs, and other preventative measures. Falling might seem minor, but it can cause serious injuries.
Poisoning & Toxic Exposure
Carbon monoxide is often an issue while in warehouses and loading docks. Running machinery and vehicles produce carbon monoxide that can become trapped in enclosed spaces if it's not well-ventilated. People exposed to carbon monoxide usually experience headaches, weakness, nausea, and eventually lose consciousness.
Carbon monoxide isn't the only hazard to watch out for. Shipments can also contain poisonous substances, and it can be challenging to determine what's safe when everything's in boxes. Workers must be vigilant about properly handling and storing the products.
Equipment and Heavy Machinery
Forklifts, trash compactors, and trucks are just a few powerful tools that are usually near loading docks. While this equipment has been instrumental in making work more accessible and efficient, it doesn't come without significant risk.
Loading docks aren't usually very large, and if you have to take something like a forklift onto a narrow truck, there's always the chance for injury. Getting pinned between heavy equipment and a wall is an issue that happens more often than it should. Human error and a distracting environment can lead to this type of traumatic event.
Hearing Loss
It is a well-known fact that loud and repetitive noises can harm hearing. This exposure is a dilemma in work environments with banging, constant motors, or reverberating sounds, like in a warehouse.
While many people don't consider how fragile their hearing is, the eardrum is highly delicate and should be protected accordingly. Using earplugs or protective earmuffs can be helpful in these situations. Failure to do so can result in permanent hearing loss, so workers should expect their companies to provide adequate protection.
Unsecured Trailers and Trucks
Truck drivers will be familiar with how important it is to secure the wheels of their trucks for loading and unloading on the dock. Keeping the vehicle in park and using wheel chocks are the best ways to do this. Wheel chocks are wedge-shaped rubber or metal devices used to prevent the tires from moving while the vehicle is parked.
Without them, the truck can roll. Even if it only moves a few inches, that can cause tripping and falls, meaning people, products, or equipment fall between the back of the truck and the dock. This loading dock hazard can come with serious repercussions, including fatality.
Back Injuries and Muscle Strain
Loading dock workers are often required to lift heavy objects. Although most standard procedures outline proper lifting and ergonomic techniques, many companies don't provide the necessary equipment.
Support like back belts, dollys, and knee pads can reduce the number of stress-related injuries in the workplace. Companies should expect to deal with injuries regularly if these things aren't available.
What Should Workers Expect From the Company?
Accidents happen, but if proper protocols are not in place on a loading dock, they can go from inconveniences to life or death situations. Fortunately, companies that are committed to the health of their workers can take easy, affordable steps to prevent these accidents.
If you work on a loading dock, here are some things you should look out for:
- Wet floor signs and clearly marked storage areas to prevent tripping
- Gloves, goggles, and other protective gear
- Vents and fans to keep fresh air flowing
- Emergency eye or body wash stations
- Back braces, knee braces and pads, and dollys
- Wheel chocks
- Ergonomic training
Every worker has the right to know about potential hazards for workers on loading docks. If a company is not transparent about injury and keeping everyone safe, it's wise to be wary of working with them.
Help for Your Work Injury Claim
Loading docks for warehouses, retailers and buildings can be hazardous and chaotic. If you’ve been injured on the job at a loading dock, you may have options to file a workers compensation claim and/or a personal injury claim against negligent parties. Contact an attorney who can help you understand your options.
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to assisting clients throughout New Jersey and New York with their injury cases. We have years of experience in both workers compensation and personal injury claims. Our top-rated attorney team has the extensive resources you need to secure a fair case result. If you or a loved one has been injured at work, contact us immediately to discuss your case.