Docks are one of the most high-traffic areas of a commercial or industrial company. The purpose of docks is to receive and ship goods without interruption. With trucks, forklifts, drivers, and staff continually coming and going, these can be heavy foot-traffic areas too. After all, this is where every product comes in and out of the organization’s facility. With all personnel using the dock multiple times a day, it’s crucial to make sure it operates smoothly.
Improper dock maintenance accounts for 85% of the equipment failures in the warehouse dock. Having a planned maintenance program eliminates emergency renewal/repair costs. But due to daily movement in the dock, maintenance may take a back seat. Docks cost money when they are down, but the improper maintenance costs far outweigh the maintenance costs.
Following A Maintenance Plan
Maintenance of your dock loading doors is essential for quick and efficient warehouse operations. Faulty or broken dock doors can lead to product damage, vehicle damage, delays, injuries to staff, and pest infestation. Following a rigorous program is one of the essentials to dock door maintenance.
The five steps maintenance plan includes:
- Inspection
The technicians inspect the various sections and mechanics of the dock loading door using a fine-tooth comb for cracks and splits.
- Cleaning
The next step is to clean up the debris from all of the door’s equipment and components where it can obstruct the moving parts. This improves the functioning and the appearance of the door.
- Lubricating
Lubrication protects the components from corrosion, wear, and tear. It also improves the life of the components. Besides, it ensures the smooth functioning of the door components and keeps them working in proper order.
- Adjustments
Technicians then make the dock door repairs and any necessary replacements. This helps in returning the equipment to a more efficient working order.
- Documentation
Documenting creates a permanent record of what received attention and what was done. It is a crucial final step as it facilitates any adjustments or repairs made over a certain period. It then can be used as a reference to schedule any future maintenance works.
Dock Door maintenance Essentials
The warehouse dock doors are a crucial part of the maintenance checklist. While many areas require regular maintenance, dock doors need to be a priority when it comes to following a maintenance plan. The essentials to dock door maintenance include:
1. Opening/Closing Systems
The opening and closing mechanisms of the dock door need to be checked regularly and thoroughly. Make sure the system is working in proper order. Depending upon the type of dock door, make sure it is free of any hang-ups.
2. Door sections
Each section and panel of the dock door is essential for its proper functioning. Dents, bangs, and holes can interfere with the normal functioning of the dock doors. Keeping a regular check over the panel and different components will ensure smooth operation even during a hectic period.
3. Weather Seals
Weather seals are also crucial for the proper functioning of dock doors as they keep the environment inside the dock controlled. Any gap, tear, or crack in the weather seal could provide an entry point for insects and rats. Check if the weather seals are cracked, dry, or split as they determine how well the dock doors keep out moisture and pests.
Benefits Of Regular maintenance
Poor dock house maintenance leads to damage to products, vehicles, delays in loading/unloading of goods, and injuries to workers. Regular dock maintenance can help in the following ways.
1. Early Detection of Problems
Regular maintenance will help in catching minor issues before they develop into bigger and more costly problems. Regular inspections help in maintaining the equipment’s structural integrity by checking for common problems such as wear and tear. It also allows the company to order necessary parts well ahead of time.
2. Reducing Monthly Energy Bills
Using faulty equipment results in higher monthly bills as it consumes more energy. Gaps in faulty doors and seals can lead to a flux in the internal temperatures putting the HVAC system under more pressure.
3. Reducing Injuries at work
Properly maintained equipment will help in keeping your staff safe by preventing injuries. After all, taking care of the workers is of utmost importance. It also leads to a reduced workforce.
Conclusion
Essentials to dock door maintenance include a regular and routine check of loading dock doors. This regular check ensures the smooth functioning of all the equipment and the dock house. Proper maintenance also has other benefits, such as less energy consumption. It also protects the staff against any injuries and makes sure there are no delays in loading or unloading.
