The Short Answer
Most loading dock accidents are preventable with three things: a working vehicle restraint, a leveler interlocked with it, and clear light communication between drivers and operators. Use this checklist to audit your dock.
The 10-Point Checklist
1. Vehicle restraint engages the ICC bar and holds — test restraining force regularly.
2. Dock leveler is interlocked so it cannot operate until the restraint is engaged.
3. Inside and outside LED signal lights work (green = safe, red = stop).
4. Leveler lip rests fully on the truck bed before forklifts cross.
5. Dock bumpers are intact and not compressed or cracked.
6. Trailer wheel chocks are used as a backup to the restraint.
7. The overhead door and dock shelter/seal are in good condition.
8. Operators are trained on push-button or pull-chain operation.
9. The dock area is clear of pedestrians and non-essential traffic.
10. Records are kept for inspections and maintenance.
The Accidents This Prevents
This checklist targets the four most common dock accidents: trailer creep from repeated forklift impact, early departure by the driver, landing gear collapse under load, and forklift tip-over at the dock edge. A restraint plus interlock addresses all four.