Knowing how to use a loading ramp safely can help prevent accidents and injuries from occurring in the workplace. At Dura-Ramp, we understand the importance of loading ramp safety. That is why we offer a wide range of loading ramps that are specifically designed to meet and exceed all safety requirements.
Tips for Using a Loading Ramp Safely
When it comes to using loading ramps, safety is an extremely important issue that needs to be addressed because there are often many factors at play that can go wrong in a matter of seconds. Some simple tips for using a loading ramp safely include:
1. Be Careful Not to Fall Backwards
When driving up a loading ramp, there is always a danger of the vehicle tipping over backwards. This risk is greater for vehicles with a high centre of gravity, such as motorcycles, than it is for vehicles with a low centre of gravity, such as forklifts. The simplest solution for driving safely up a loading ramp is to ensure that the powered wheel of the vehicle is uphill. This means that vehicles powered by rear wheel drive should be reversed up the loading ramp.
2. Stay on the Loading Ramp
Since there is also a risk of slipping off the side the loading ramp when loading and unloading various sizes of vehicles and equipment, it is important to use a loading ramp with an anti-slip surface. Anti-slip surfaces are specifically designed to prevent slippage in different types of weather conditions.
3. Ensure the Loading Ramp is Attached
One of the most important things that you can do to ensure the safety of the workers using the loading ramp is to make sure that the ramp is tightly secured to the trailer. This can be done through the use of chains, safety straps, or hook connections. In the event that the safety chains or straps are too long, it is important to adjust them or else there might be a sag or gap between the ramp and trailer.
4. Keep the Loading Ramp Angle Low
The steeper the loading ramp, the greater the chance of an accident occurring. In order to create a lower ramp angle, consider placing the trailer on a lower surface than the surface the loading ramp is on to create a more level loading and unloading area.
If you would like to learn more about how to use a loading ramp safely, or if you are interested in one of our loading ramp products, please contact Dura-Ramp at 604-795-9799 or by filling out a contact form on our website for a free quote.
