Loading Platform Safety: Preventing Accidents & Injuries

Loading platforms can pose risks to the health and safety of visitors and employees working in the vicinity of a loading platform. A loading platform is the location where goods are loaded onto and off trucks and other vehicles.

Falls

• The majority of injuries received on loading areas are from slips and falls, according to the National institute of Building Sciences. To avoid these injuries spills and leaks should be cleaned up immediately, and containers and packages should be stored out of paths for pedestrians and moving equipment.

Pathways

• Loading platforms should be marked with separate pathways for moving equipment, such as forklift trucks, and pedestrians to use. Moisture and humidity levels in loading areas should be controlled to avoid dangerous, slippery conditions for forklifts using ramps.

Security

• A major part of loading platform safety is the protection of the area from theft and terrorist attack. Some techniques used in the security of loading platforms include fenced-in areas and protection of ventilation systems from chemical and biological attack.