Posted By Descarte
Our guys regularly offload from bulk liquids to tankers/ships, because they are offloading flammables the only barriers we errect are to prevent FLT's and vehicles entering the area whilst we offload.

We do not currently errect any physical barriers on the edges of the docks, however all drivers, supervisors and employees involved do have to wear life jackets.

I would be interest to see if there were any additional requirements of if you find any other relevant information

Thanks

Des

Posted By mbarrett
There are specific requirements for fencing etc
laid out in - Safety in Docks - (Dock Regulations 1988 ACOP)ISBN 071764085
As far as I can remember and it is a long time ago the recommendations in this guide are for fencing/barriers at the corners of the docks or where there is a significant change of direction. However don't quote me as it's been a while since I used these regulations.
Hope this is of some use

Posted By steve e ashton
Barry

was your query referring to docks as in 'docks wharves and quays' or to docks as in loading bays in busy warehouses with lorries reversing and forklifts zipping about? Your reference to stairs at each end suggests the latter to me....

The former seems to have been answered in part - the latter not at all so here goes:-

Yes, I have advised logistics operations about the need to provide protection at loading bay edges. The risks are clear and obvious - and the work at height regs do not just apply where you can fall more than 2metres.

Barriers applicable will depend on

the nature/height of the dock,
the nature / type of goods handled across the dock
the presence of building structural elements
the type and range of traffic delivering / removing goods
the type and range of handling equipment

If your dock edge is isolated from the main FLT thoroughfares, then a pedestrian barrier (Handrail / chain) may (possibly) suffice. If your FLTs routinely pass along the loading edge, then you have to consider traffic-proof barriers to prevent the otherwise almost inevitable drive-off-edge incident. Such barriers can be installed, but you need to be aware of the need for robust and workable management arrangements for removal / replacement when wagons arrive for loading / unloading.

There can be no single solution to this problem - so much depends on so many factors. E Mail off forum if you think I may be able to assist you in developing your risk assessment and any controls.

Steve