Dock loading bay inspection checklist

Inspect your dock loading bay regularly for signs of damage and defects and use the opportunity to ensure that the surrounding areas are well maintained and safety protocols are being followed. Use our checklist to guide you through the process.

Legal position

Dock loading bays are classed as work equipment and therefore covered by the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, which state that employers have a responsibility to ensure that equipment is safe to use and fit for purpose.

High risk

Because the dock bay can be damaged during the loading and unloading process, it’s important that a competent individual, e.g. the warehouse manager, is assigned the task of checking that it’s fit for use. They should complete formal checks, once per day as a minimum. However, if the loading bays are used frequently throughout the day, it’s advisable to increase the frequency to pick up on any damage or faults immediately.

How to use it

The checklist should take no more than five minutes to collate a week’s information on one document. Make sure that the person completing it reports any defects to management immediately rather than waiting for the sheets to be reviewed.