Don't put lives at risk, restrain vehicles during loading

Unfortunately there have been two fatal accidents already this year involving forklift truck drivers working in the dock area, one in the USA and one in Denmark. Securing vehicles firmly to the dock during loading/unloading minimises the risk of accidents involving forklift trucks. The Global Wheel-LokTM from Caljan Rite-Hite ensures that once the trailer is backed into position, it stays in place.

Wheel chocks are unable to prevent the trailer from creeping an inch or so forward every time the forklift enters the trailer - sometimes known as dock walk - and they cannot prevent the driver from pulling away from the dock, if he has misunderstood communication. The Global Wheel-Lokâ„¢ vehicle restraint is capable of securing virtually all trailers to the loading dock, including those with hydraulic lift gates. Communication lights clearly indicate when the trailer is locked and when it is possible to drive away. During testing, drivers have been encouraged to try and pull away from the dock when the lock was activated. The locking mechanism of the Global Wheel-LokTM proved itself extremely effective keeping the trailer safely in place.

This rugged, surface-mounted vehicle restraint features a simple electro-mechanical design, providing both reliable operation and simple maintenance in the harsh loading dock environment. Global Wheel-Lokâ„¢ works effectively in all weather conditions, including rain and snow. All critical components are mounted high, so standing water or frozen ground conditions do not affect the system.

As the vehicle approaches, a trigger device activates a high-strength steel locking arm. This automatically sizes the tyre and rises to its full height. Once the trailer is in place, the dock attendant activates the lock. A bright LED on the outside of the building lights red. On the inside of the building a corresponding Green LED tells the forklift driver that it is safe to enter the trailer.

Two wheel guides ensure accurate, on-center trailer positioning which not only helps guarantee a tight, efficient dock seal, but can also help extend the life of the seal, bumpers and building wall.

Well-known companies such as Tetley Tea, McVities, Masterfoods, Cost Co, Kerry Foods and Kelloggs have installed Global Wheel-LokTM to protect both goods and employees.