Safety should always be a top priority when managing loading docks. But concrete damage can make a loading dock unsafe. Find out the six types of harmful situations where damaged concrete puts employees and vendors at the loading dock at risk.

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1. Concrete Damage/Spall Around Dock Leveler Rear Angle

Concrete spall, which are the flakes that break off of larger concrete pieces, are also hazardous to forklift operators. One area prone to concrete spall is the dock leveler curb angle. In particular the rear angle. The rear angle bears all the weight and force of fork trucks entering and exiting the leveler. Over time both angle and the concrete holding the angle in place can become damaged and compromised. As the single point that holds the dock leveler in place, this can become a very dangerous situation.

2. Concrete damage at Loading Dock bumpers

The loading dock bumper absorbs the impact of a tractor-trailer backing into the building’s dock. Over time the concrete can become cracked and damaged. Damaged concrete around the bumper can cause the bumper to fall off causing further concrete damage as well as damage to the building wall. It is a good idea to replace damaged bumpers and repair the affected concrete as soon as possible. Stokes Equipment carries reasonably priced loading dock bumpers in Delaware, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Maryland.

3. Bollard and Barrier concrete damage

When bollards and barriers do their job protecting equipment and personnel from heavy equipment, they get hit. When they get hit the concrete in the floor they are anchored to becomes damaged. Stokes can repair the concrete damage and replace the bollards or barriers with a full line of barrier protection products and concrete services.

4. Cracked Expansion Joints and Surface Damage in Concrete

Expansion joints are put in place to allow concrete to expand and contract during temperature fluctuations. The joints protect the floor from breaking into larger cracks. However, over time, forklift traffic and hard impacts can cause expansion joints to crack and general floor damage.

5. Caustic spillage on concrete floors

When caustic materials splashes or spills in the loading dock area or facility floor, it softens the concrete facilitating additional damage. This situation is dangerous because it can result in uneven, unstable concrete surfaces.

6. Concrete damage around the drain

Dampness around the drain damages the concrete in that area. If left unrepaired, larger cracks around the drain will break off. Furthermore, extensive concrete damage raises the risk of serious accidents, loss of productivity, and costlier repairs.

Safety is uncompromisable

Stokes Equipment is passionate about loading dock safety. Let’s work together to keep your employees, vendors, and building protected. Schedule an inspection to bring to light any areas where damaged concrete exists. For concrete loading dock repair in Delaware, call us toll-free at 800.220.1099 or message us online and request a quote today!