How to Load a Dock Plate Safely
A dock plate is used to bridge the gap between the loading dock and a truck/trailer. This plate allows personnel and equipment to safely enter and exit the trailer during the loading and unloading process. These plates can be made of light weight aluminum or from steel which will be very heavy and cumbersome to handle. Proper care must be taken when moving and placing dock plates.
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Instructions
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Determine the type and weight of the dock plate you are using. Even lightweight dock plates can be too heavy and cumbersome for a single person to handle, and should only be used with a forklift. The model and style of the dock plate will dictate how it is to be moved. Dock plates come in various widths as well and you must make certain the dock plate is wide enough to accommodate all equipment to be used in the loading or unloading of the cargo.
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Raise the brackets on the dock plate and allow them to rest in the open position. Do not hold them open with your hands. Heavier dock plates will often have brackets set into the dock plate. These brackets can be pulled into an open position and are spaced the proper width to accommodate the forks on a forklift. Carefully drive the forklift forward until the forks extend beyond the brackets. Slowly raise the forks while tilting them back. Raise the dock plate no more than 3 to 4 inches off the ground during transport.
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Maneuver the forklift to the rear of the truck/trailer. The dock plate will have a long and short side. Insert the shorter side of the plate into the truck/trailer, allowing the longer portion to extend onto the dock. Align the protruding spikes or plates beneath the dock plate with the gap between the dock and the truck/trailer. Very slowly lower the dock plate, allowing the vertical spikes to slide down into the gap. The dock plate must rest on the dock and the rear of the truck/trailer in order to be secure. Slowly back the forklift away and kick the brackets closed, being certain to keep your feet in a safe position when doing so.
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If the dock plate has no brackets for the forks to slide into, it will be necessary to slide the forks under the dock plate from either side. The center of the dock plate will be held off the floor by the vertical plates or spikes, which will allow adequate room beneath to insert the forks. Maneuvering the plate into position on the truck/trailer is more difficult with this application but can be done. Use slow, small movements when positioning the dock plate.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not allow anyone to stand on the dock plate during transport to act as a counterweight. If the plate will not ride properly, stop and reposition the forks.
If the dock plate does not descend fully into the opening between the truck and trailer, remove it and try again. Do not drive the forklift onto the dock plate in an attempt to force the plate down. This can result in a very hazardous situation if only one side of the plate slides down.
