Safety Tips For Loading Ramps

Most construction companies have loads of loading ramps, but not all of them know how to load them correctly. There are loads of details to be learned when you choose to do this kind of work, and it takes a professional to make sure your ramps are as safe as they can be. Safety on a loading ramp is paramount, so you must practice safe loading techniques wherever possible. Here are some safest way to use loading ramps that you should always follow:

Safety is Paramount When Transporting Heavy Items

Safety is paramount when transporting heavy items or materials on ramps, so never try and do the job yourself. Always get the proper assistance from a trained person. Never load more than you can handle. Be aware of the weight of the objects you are about to load. Ramps come in various sizes, and you must ensure that the ramp you choose is fit for the job. Never overload a ramp, as this can cause the whole load to tip over.

Safety Belts

The safety belt is important in any situation, but it is imperative while working with heavy objects. If an accident or someone falls from the ramp, the safety belt will prevent serious injury. You should wear safety goggles to protect your eyes. Never try and do any work in a low position, as this can also cause serious injury.

Overloading

Ensure that you don’t overload the ramp, because this can lead to the material tipping over backward. Never leave the ramp while loading, as you risk falling or getting trapped. This is especially important if you are doing work on the side of a building. Never drive the ramp over uneven ground or terrain, as this can cause the material to slip or move unpredictably.

Placement

It is essential to place the ramp far away from machinery. Do not place it under trees, power lines or other potential hazards. You should also not work on a slippery surface. Never overload a ramp with heavy objects such as bricks can lead to the material shifting and toppling over.

Most importantly, follow all loading tips for loading ramps correctly. Always keep in mind that even though it’s a manual ramp, you still need to use your head. Ensure you stand on the ramp at an angle that is comfortable for you and not at a dangerous angle. Keep your weight as light as possible, especially when you’re loading large objects. Remember that working on a loading ramp requires strength, so use your legs only when necessary. Follow all safety precautions and recommendations to avoid any accidents.

Unloading

When you unload a ramp from a truck, always use the down position to ensure that your body is positioned under the load. If you are placing a ramp on your own property, it is also essential that you keep your back and hips adequately positioned so that you will not cause yourself any injury during the lifting process. As an added note, always make certain that the ramp is leveled before you begin unloading. If it is not level, you may drop some of the supplies you are carrying. Again, be careful not to spill anything and keep the ramp’s height below the height of the contents.

Weight

In addition to those general tips, loading tips for ramps should also include the specific weight of each item or material that is to be loaded onto the ramp. Often, people try to load heavier items using regular loading methods, only to find out later that they were too heavy. Instead, it is far safer and more efficient to double wrap the heavier loads, preventing the ramp from tipping over backward. By following safe loading tips, you will ensure that you are using your equipment safely and in a manner that minimizes accidents.