The loading dock at a building will include a high threshold between the ground and the entry point. The threshold can be a few feet high. This height is necessary for allowing loading trucks to safely load and unload their contents into a building with minimum interference. While this height is critical for building operations, it’s also tough for people to get in and out of the loading dock without stairs. REDD Team can fabricate new stairs for your loading dock, giving everyone the access they need.
Secure Aluminum Design
Loading dock stairs will need to be capable of handling more weight than other steps. Our stairs at REDD Team feature aluminum bodies that can handle weight without buckling or rusting.
Aluminum is prominent for being lightweight while having more tensile strength. The design can handle several times an average person’s weight, which is especially necessary if someone has to deliver something up and down those stairs.
Your loading dock stairs should be designed to where they can handle at least five times the anticipated amount of weight you plan on adding to the surface. We can check your current standards and produce a stair set that works with your capacity needs.
The aluminum design is also necessary for how your loading dock stairs will be outdoors. Since your steps will be subject to intense heat or cold and also some precipitation, you’ll need to find a material that stays intact through all these changes. Our experts at REDD Team use aluminum prepared and fabricated here in the United States, so you can be assured you’ll get the best-quality aluminum materials for your space.
Safe Handrails
Both sides of the loading dock stairs will require handrails. These rails should be at least 36 inches high and rated to handle at least 200 pounds of pressure from all angles. These rails must also work around the flat surface on the top part of the staircase.
In addition to regular employees using these handrails, these features will also be necessary when a visitor needs to deliver something to your building. The visitor can climb up the stairs with ease and ring your doorbell or other alert system.
Non-Slip Surface
People who go in and out of a loading dock will often be surrounded by various slip hazards. These include spills from items inside the dock and cases where people track rain inside the building. These slip hazards can be risky, but they are especially dangerous on steps.
Loading dock stairs can include non-slip surfaces that include two points. First, the steps can feature openings that keep moisture from pooling up and creating a slippery space. Second, the steps will include rising points that can help keep one’s grip when going up and down the steps, reducing the risk of slipping. These two features are helpful for all uses, including for situations where people might not be wearing work boots or other shoes with rugged surfaces.
REDD Team is available to help you fabricate new loading dock stairs for your property. You can contact us at (800) 648-3696 or our website for details on how we can help you. We will create a new step setup that will work for your loading dock while being safe to go up and down.
