Safe loading and unloading is receiving increasing attention

Safety Around the Docks

Safety inside the warehouse has long been a major focus, but safety outside the warehouse remained overlooked for a long time. Recently, however, that has been changing. “Customers are increasingly showing interest in security solutions for loading docks, such as vehicle locking or detection systems,” says Sameer Nanhekhan, Key Account Manager for Distribution & Logistics at ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems.

“I’ve also noticed that the reasons for investing in safety are changing. During client visits, I hear that employees really appreciate it when their employer shows that they take their safety seriously. Because employees are often an organization’s best ambassadors, their satisfaction is also playing an increasingly important role. It’s no longer just about preventing incidents and the potential negative publicity that results from them.” 

During loading, there is a risk that the trailer could unintentionally roll away from the loading dock due to the movements of forklifts. This problem is known as “creep.” Another hazard is premature departure, for example due to misunderstandings, incorrect instructions, language barriers, or a lack of communication with the driver. ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems offers a wide range of access solutions to mitigate such risks. The company is known for its comprehensive support of customers, from the initial assessment through implementation, use, and maintenance.

Comprehensive assessment

Nanhekhan has been working in distribution and logistics for over twenty years. He uses that experience to gain a clear understanding of the customer’s situation. “During the assessment, I look at the big picture. What measures are already in place, what challenges are employees facing, and how does the process work on the shop floor? I also examine how the loading dock is set up and what vehicles are being used. And I don’t just consider the current situation—I also factor in developments within the loading process and any future plans when advising the customer. Only then will the customer receive a system that fits their loading process, their employees, and their budget,” says Nanhekhan.

Various options

Nanhekhan then compares various options side by side: from dock lights to manual or automatic vehicle locking systems. For each option, he discusses the costs, how it works, and any remaining risks. “After all, the customer needs to know what a particular choice means for their own operations.”

Pilot Provides the Answer

This was also evident from a business case that Nanhekhan recently prepared for an international client with multiple locations in the Benelux. The request was for a few hundred low-cost wheel chocks. “However, on-site discussions revealed that this low-cost product would not provide the solution they were looking for—namely, preventing trailers from creeping. They had experienced this a few times, and it had only just ended well. That’s why I suggested they first test one of our coupled vehicle locking systems. As a result, the client ultimately gave the green light for five hundred of these systems. The rollout will begin shortly with the first installation.”

ASSA ABLOY’s locking system securely holds a truck in place with a robust locking arm. By simultaneously ensuring that the overhead doors do not open before the safety locks are engaged, it prevents unintended vehicle movements. After loading, the door closes first, after which the lock is released and the driver can depart.

Honest advice

According to Nanhekhan, customers appreciate the robust design, ease of use, and ease of maintenance of ASSA ABLOY’s solutions. They also value the opportunity to receive instruction and training at the knowledge center in Heerhugowaard or at their own business location. “I often hear that ASSA ABLOY is viewed as an expert and reliable partner. Credibility is indeed a major asset for us. Honest advice is our top priority, because that is the foundation for building lasting customer relationships.”