Protection and security of loading docks

Innovative truck locking system is easy to install

Loading docks have several safety hazards. "There is a lot of traffic around a dock, both inside and outside. Employees and truck drivers are in danger of getting caught between a vehicle and the building. And with an open dock door, there is even a precipice of about 1.20 meters with an associated danger of falling," explains Hans Bolder, project manager at ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems. Colleague and marketing and communications manager José de Ruijter adds: "We see it as our job to inform people in advance about the possibilities of a truck locking system and not wait until things go wrong. That's why we include this in our advice."

ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems provides entrance solutions that ensure the smooth and safe flow of people and goods, as well as enhanced security. This division is part of ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions. As a total supplier, they provide innovative products for the logistics and distribution sector. "We produce everything ourselves which allows the customer to operate door and dock system from one control unit. This is not only convenient but it also makes any malfunctions easier to fix. For maintenance, repair and inspection, we have over 100 employees, spread throughout the Netherlands. This puts our service and after-sales at a high level."

Locking system

During loading, there is a risk that the semi-trailer, due to the impact of forklift traffic, may unintentionally roll away from the loading dock. A problem known as "creeping. Another danger is premature driving off, due to misunderstandings, incorrect instructions or lack of communication with the driver, for example. Bolder: "Our locking system holds the truck securely with a robust locking arm. By simultaneously ensuring that the platform doors do not open before the safety locks are in place, unforeseen vehicle movements are prevented. The system provides a smart and effective way to protect employees and equipment." De Ruijter: "We see that employers are doing more and more to ensure maximum safety in the loading and unloading process. Especially with the increasing use of non-Dutch-speaking personnel and automated forklifts, this has become even more important."

Easy installation

In addition to automatic locking systems, ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems also offers manual systems, where the driver manually locks the vehicle. "What is innovative about our automatic locking system is that the installation does not require any complicated construction work. And no special provisions need to be made either. This means that the pit will therefore only be out of service for a short time." The system is applicable almost anywhere and can be added to existing docks easily and brand-independently. Because the platform doors are no longer open unnecessarily, the system also has a burglar-proof function and prevents birds or other unwanted guests from entering. It also reduces energy consumption.

Customer Experience

ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems installed the complete loading docks at Tarkett BV in Waalwijk. Besides the insulated overhead doors and the complete loading and unloading system, they also chose the automatic vehicle blocking system. Jan Dekker is Freight Warehouse FG Manager at Tarkett and talks about this blocking system: "Safety is number 1 for Tarkett BV. Every day people come here healthy, of course. And I want them to go home healthy as well. The safety of employees and drivers has been increased by the automatic vehicle locking systems. We sat down with three suppliers. Based on the knowledge, expertise, service, quality and price, we decided to go with ASSA ABLOY. The locking system is very user-friendly. After you park the vehicle, you only have to perform three operations and even a layman like me can do it."