Even good lift truck operators can experience problems in high-traffic dock areas. How many times have you watched in amazement as a truck driver strolled casually from his truck cab toward the driver's lounge, oblivious to the fact that he was in the direct path of an oncoming lift truck? Or have you ever witnessed a tractor-trailer start to pull away from a dock with a lift truck still inside the trailer?

Watch your trailer-to-dock interface.

Trailer creep and trailer pull-away have long been recognized as a problem in dock operations. A number of companies manufacture vehicle restraints to prevent trailer movement. Make sure that levelers, dockboards or ramps are securely in place when mounted between the dock and trailer or railcar. If you are operating a sit-down lift truck and find you can't avoid falling off the dock, stay inside the lift truck. The fastened seat belt and operator cage offer protection. If you are on a stand-up unit, step off and away from the lift truck as safely as possible. Read the full story on Clark's Website...