All across industries, ‘safety first’ is ubiquitous, but how many employers are really doing all they can to keep loading terminal operators safe while at work?
The good news is that worker safety and productivity in the workplace are not mutually exclusive. Although not always the easiest to achieve, it is possible to prioritize safety for workers without compromising efficiency and productivity in general. There are challenges to accomplishing both; unfortunately, safety often takes a hit when the bottom line is in peril. According to a recent poll conducted by Automation World, concerns about productivity and cumbersome safety processes are two common reasons for non-compliance.
Respondents to the survey overwhelmingly agreed that proper training which outlines safety roles and keeps individuals accountable was key in creating a safety-compliant work culture. Another factor that affects compliance is collaborative leadership. Leaders who take the time to communicate well and include workers in the training and decision-making process were regarded much more highly, with high marks for safety compliance following suit.
Loading Terminal Safety
Elevated loading terminal platforms are a good example of how a fall protection system can not only create a safer work environment for operators responsible for loading, sampling, and venting but also help encourage a more productive process. Efficiency goes a long way in keeping workers safe and productive in loading operations across all industries.
The greatest risk in most loading terminal operations is the possibility of a worker falling or getting injured while operating equipment or machinery. Workplace accidents can be minimized using the right safety equipment and adequate operator training. Comprehensive safety measures must be taken to ensure all areas of operations, including machinery, loading truck or rail vehicles, fall protection equipment, loading material, and the entire management process, are as safe and efficient as possible. The environment where the work is being performed and how the tasks are accomplished must also be considered. Because loading and unloading operators face substantial risks while performing their duties, safety interventions are critical in identifying, eliminating, or minimizing all hazards. Safety training allows workers to maximize their health and safety at work while creating smooth and efficient processes for getting the job done.
When it comes to safe and efficient loading platforms, flexibility is key. The last thing you want is a rigid structure that’s good only in one orientation. A loading platform should not be rigid and only useful in a single orientation. Rather, it should be able to adapt to the ever-changing needs of your facility. As new products are added or throughput is increased, your loading platform should accommodate a variety of tanker trucks, flatbed trailers, and other loading equipment—including the ability to load products of various sizes and weights. Additionally, the platform should be able to handle increased traffic during peak periods. By making sure your loading platform is adjustable, you can avoid disruptions to your business and keep operations running smoothly as the needs of your facility change.
Other concerns that should be addressed in loading terminals are:
- Compliance with OSHA regulations
- Space restrictions
- Types/number of manufacturing loading lines
- Truck variations to be serviced
- Traffic flows and patterns
- Production efficiency and throughput
The High Cost of Loading Accidents
Loading docks can be very dangerous as they often include moving vehicles and heavy machinery. According to an estimate, 25% of all industrial accidents occur on loading docks. The direct costs of these loading dock mishaps are estimated at $135 million, with an average of 94,750 reported incidents annually.
Following some basic safety rules is important to make loading terminal operations safer. For example, loading dock workers should always wear the proper safety equipment, such as gloves, hard hats, and safety glasses. They should also be aware of their surroundings and stay clear of moving vehicles. By following these simple precautions, loading dock workers can help prevent accidents and injuries.
The most common loading terminal injury falls in the Slips, Trips, and Falls (STFs) category. STFs, in general, are estimated to cost businesses billions of dollars in lost productivity, increased insurance premiums, and the training of replacement workers. Fall-related injuries are one of the leading causes of missed workdays and job-related disability. Fortunately, businesses can take several steps to prevent these costly accidents. For example, facilities can install fall protection systems in areas where the tasks being accomplished come with a risk of falling. Safety managers should also be sure employees are trained in proper safety procedures. By taking these precautions, loading terminal businesses can minimize the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
Safety Training for Loading Terminal Workers
Loading terminals are an essential part of the logistics industry and must be operated safely to avoid accidents. Loading docks can be dangerous, and workers must be trained to load and unload trucks safely. Safety protocols include wearing proper safety gear, using the correct loading techniques, and following the correct loading sequences. Workers must also be aware of potential hazards around loading docks, such as slick surfaces, moving vehicles, and heavy equipment. By following these safety protocols, loading terminal workers can help to prevent accidents and injuries.
Safety training also fosters important interaction and collaboration among team members, enhancing personal and professional dynamics that can greatly impact productivity. As new policies and procedures are added to terminal operations, proper training must always be conducted. Facility managers should always look closely at the safety equipment and practices that safeguard their workers. Doing so can minimize workers’ hazards and boost their overall productivity. Safety products such as safety gates and guardrails can be utilized to minimize risk and enhance operations. By investing in the right safety equipment, facility managers can help to create a safer working environment for their employees. In addition to investing in safety equipment, facility managers should ensure that their employees are properly trained in loading dock safety procedures. By taking these steps, facility managers can help reduce the risks associated with loading terminals and improve the productivity of their workers.
