Workers at distribution and fulfillment centers often handle massive weights that they need to move onto vehicles and other spaces. All the surfaces they use will need to handle these extensive weights. This point is true for loading dock steps, as these steps must be ready to handle the intense pressure you’ll experience when carrying things up and down. REDD Team can produce new steps that will fit your center well.
Loading dock steps are necessary for more than entering and leaving a distribution or fulfillment center building. These steps are also critical when you’re loading items onto vehicles that don’t meet the height clearances for more massive dock doors. A smaller van or post office vehicle might not be as tall as a trailer that might carry more items. You’d have to move items up and down your steps to reach these spots.
Our experts at REDD Team can produce safe loading dock steps that will handle all the weight you’ll carry while preparing enough room for someone to go up and down. Each dock step layout we produce will include the necessary features to help you keep your balance.
Safe Stairs
Your loading dock steps will feature multiple points for your safety:
- Your steps will feature grooved surfaces that create a sturdy grip, keeping you from slipping off a spot.
- There will also be openings at the bottom part of each step to keep moisture and other items from crowding a spot. This feature further reduces the slip risk.
- Handrails will appear on the sides to help you keep your balance. These handrails should be about 36 inches high on both sides.
- The landing spots on the top and bottom parts of the steps will also be long enough to keep people from slipping or otherwise entering a crowded space. A landing area can be a few feet from the end of the steps.
These design points are good for moving heavy weights up and down and ensuring everyone going on the steps stay safe. It’s common for some workers to be tired after a long day of work, so they might require extra support going down or up those steps. Proper safety standards for getting these steps ready will be necessary for all workers.
How Much Weight Will the Steps Handle?
The amount of weight your loading dock steps can handle will vary by situation. Your steps can feature a sturdy aluminum material can work that won’t risk warping, bending, or rust.
The surface requires enough reinforcement to support at least five times the anticipated weight load your steps will experience. The steps should also handle at least 1,000 pounds at a time.
The rails should also support at least 200 pounds of pressure from all angles. The support is necessary for situations where someone might lose one’s balance going up or down.
Your distribution and fulfillment center will require safe loading dock steps that allow anyone to go up and down without worry. REDD Team is here to help you find a plan for producing loading dock steps that will work for you. You can visit us online to learn more and request a quote, or you can call us at (800) 648-3696 for further help.
