Loading Dock Safety Procedures & Rules

    Purpose

    To ensure the safe handling of wood pallets and product during loading and unloading operations at docks, preventing injuries, equipment damage and cargo loss.

    Scope

    This policy applies to all Mako employees handling wood pallets and operating forklifts during loading and unloading activities at Mako warehouse locations.

    Standards
    • All Mako dock and forklift associates must comply with the following:

    • No more than a single ear bud when operating.

    • No cellphone use while operating equipment.

    • No open-toed shoes permitted.

    • No loose clothing permitted.

    • Seatbelts must be worn at all times when operating equipment.

    • Climbing on outside of equipment, or horseplaying of any kind is not permitted.

    Loading/Unloading Policies and Procedures
    • Each driver arriving for a pickup or delivery, must fill out the Mako sign-in log upon check-in.
    • Each driver must comply with standard Mako dock procedures to include:

    • Refrain from walking the dock at any time.

    • Bathroom access is not available to drivers at any time.

    • All drivers must check in and is only permitted to physically be in the marked, and designated check-in areas.

    • Upon checking a driver in, assign a dock door for the driver to back in to.

    • Once backed in to assigned door safely, any “Live Load” drivers must cut their engine and remove keys from ignition

    • Once trailer is backed in, Mako Lead Operator must safely secure 2 wheel chokes to the trailer’s back tires.

    • Pre-loading/unloading inspection:

    • Completely open the dock door and assess the trailer alignment to the door. Communicate and request for proper alignment if needed.

    • Deploy/Engage proper placement of dock plate/leveler

    • Dock Condition:

    • Ensure the dock area is clean, dry and free of hazards like nails, liquid or broken wood.

    • Inspect trailer floor and sidewalls for any notable damages.

    • Forklift Inspection:

    • Conduct a pre-shift/load inspection (brakes, lights, horn, tires, lift mechanisms and safety devices). Tag any faulty equipment as “out of service”.

    • Loading/Unloading Completion

    • Release dock plate.

    • Completely close and latch overhead door.

    • Assign a trailer seal.

    • Lead forklift operator must return the completed paperwork to the Orlando Team via group text, notifying them that the trailer is loaded, seal is assigned and ready for paperwork to be generated.

    • Once paperwork is emailed back to operator and printed and prepared for driver:

      1. Lead forklift operator will safely remove the wheel chocks.

      2. Lead forklift driver will then present the paperwork and seal to the driver to release them from the dock.

    As a forklift operator, CSR, yard hostler, supervisor and/ or any other employee who might be involved in loading or unloading of trailers have read and understood the procedures and rules mentioned above. Failure to comply with these rules will result in disciplinary actions by management.

    (I agree and understand that by signing the Electronic Signature Acknowledgment and Consent Form, that all electronic signatures are the legal equivalent of my manual/handwritten signature and I consent to be legally bound to this agreement)