5 Ways to Winterize Your Loading Dock
Loading docks are workspaces that operate year-round. Texas and the other southern states we serve at Southern Dock Products are notorious for having unpredictable weather that can cripple an unprepared dock.
Although we’re still in the fall, now is the time for loading dock managers to start checking their equipment and winterizing their stations before a harsh winter hits.
Here are our five essential steps to take that will keep your loading dock productive all winter long.
Inspect Your Industrial Fans
Industrial fans help regulate the temperature of a loading dock. During the winter, industrial fans can run in reverse and move warm air throughout a loading dock.
So, it’s essential to check your fans and ensure they work properly for any temperature needs your loading dock requires.
If maintenance is in order or your loading dock needs a new HVLS fan, our team can come to your dock and make all necessary repairs and installations.
Ensure Your Loading Dock Seals Are Adequate
Without dock seals that are in pristine condition, the gaps between your dock and parked trucks can let frigid temperatures, rain, and snow into your loading dock.
If you inspect your dock seals and find gaps in your system, it’s time to reinforce this essential equipment. Let the team at Southern Dock Products bring you Serco and Weatherall products that provide the effective seal your loading dock needs to keep its interior temperature in check.
Inspect Your Vehicle Restraints
Winter weather in Texas can get icy and slippery, creating an unstable environment for delivery trucks snuggling up to your loading dock.
Vehicle restraints provide added security to your loading dock during a cold snap, preventing ice slips and accidental movement during a load or unload.
Vehicle restraints should always be used at your loading dock. However, if your location lacks this equipment, Southern Dock Products can install these safety features before winter sets in.
Always Have a Mop On Hand
Although this winterization tip for your loading dock may seem simple, it’s one of the most important steps your team can take towards creating a safer working environment.
As your loading dock door rolls up to accept a parking vehicle, rain and snow can quickly blow in and create a slippery surface inside of your dock
Prevent slip and fall hazards by placing mops in easily accessed locations that employees can use when the need arises
Prevent a Hazardous Mess With Dock Shelters
If your loading dock entryway is positioned at a slant, you’ll need loading dock shelters to prevent ice, snow, and rain from overflowing into your loading dock during loads and unloads.
Dock shelters work in sync with your dock seals to keep the interior of your loading docks dry and slick-free. Southern Dock Products specializes in dock shelter installations and can help you ensure your loading area is ready for a wet winter.
Winterize Your Loading Dock Today, With Southern Dock Products
The holidays can be the busiest time of the year for loading dock employees. When equipment fails to keep a dock safe or comfortable, important deadlines are missed.
If you know that your loading dock lacks some of our essential winterizing equipment, let the team at Southern Dock Products keep your holidays bright. Contact us today to learn more about our product availability or our loading dock renovation services.
