When it comes to safety in the warehouse, the loading bay still represents one of the greatest areas of risk. With external vehicles, lift trucks and other materials handling equipment plus doors and dock levellers, there are many moving pieces of equipment that need to be considered.
While there are a number of devices and systems available that can address some of the risks, clearly defined operational practices can offer the best route to improved safety. There is no doubt that well planned loading areas can also help to mange risk however, combining the design with operational procedures can have a more significant impact.
As a true one-stop-shop for all loading bay requirements, Hörmann is perfectly placed to offer a range of options that can meet individual operational procedures. For a fully integrated loading bay, Hörmann offers its Dock Control system or will tailor a solution to meet site specific needs.
The Hörmann Dock Control is a comprehensive safety control system that links the loading door and dock leveller controls to proximity sensors and warning traffic light systems. With all the components manufactured by Hörmann they are designed to integrate seamlessly.
Proximity sensors guide a vehicle onto a loading bay via the external traffic light system. Once on the bay a wheel chock, also with integrated sensor, needs to be correctly positioned before the loading bay controls will operate.
When the vehicle is docked securely, the internal red traffic light flashes to indicate that the door can be opened. Only when the door is opened will the dock leveller controls operate. The dock leveller then controls the traffic light system.
Should the vehicle move or the wheel chock become displaced an alarm sounds and the loading lights turn to red immediately. As an additional safety feature, if the vehicle pulls off the bay whilst there is a load on the dock leveller platform, the emergency stop valve will automatically lock the platform in position.
The sequence reverses after loading, with the door only able to operate once the dock leveller is correctly parked. When the door is closed the external amber light flashes to indicate that the wheel chock can be removed. With the door secure and the chock removed, the external light returns to green.
For Asda, a more bespoke solution has been developed, which includes the incorporation of an external drivers button to activate the loading bay equipment. The driver pushes the button to confirm that a vehicle is correctly parked, with wheel locks engaged, allowing the warehouse team to begin unloading. The success of this design development has prompted Hörmann to produce this as a standard, factory manufactured option available to all.
Other, simple design considerations, such as vision panels in loading doors can add to overall safety. Here the insulating qualities of the doors can still be maintained with the two-fold benefit of increasing natural lighting and allowing warehouse staff to see vehicle movements added.
Good planning is the key. Whether you are considering a refurbishment or new build Hörmann has the knowledge, expertise and experience to work with you to develop the right solutions to suit your operation.
Hörmann Group
Tel: 01530 516888
Email: info@hormann.co.uk
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