Loading Docks

Loading Dock Ventilation 
Loading dock ventilation is a critical aspect of safety and compliance in the workplace. According to OSHA loading dock requirements, proper ventilation is necessary to prevent overexposure to carbon monoxide, which can be harmful to workers. A typical loading dock involves a platform or door dedicated for the purpose of loading and unloading materials. Some loading docks are actually designed to allow the truck to drive into the facility for loading and unloading. While some docks only allow the truck to back up to a platform typically at trailer level so a fork truck can safely pass between the truck and warehouse or staging area. When dealing with any enclosed space, proper ventilation is essential to keep the workers safe and comfortable. When properly designing a ventilation system or installing fans for a loading dock or warehouse several factors need to be considered. Unwanted toxic fumes, extreme heat and sometimes even extreme cold can be present when loading and unloading a truck. Exhaust fans and supply fans can be used to keep the general area cool and well ventilated and free from toxic and deadly gases such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and benzene. Wall sensors such as Carbon Monoxide & Nitrogen Dioxide Sensors can be used to ensure wall exhaust fans and or roof exhaust fans are turned on in conjunction with motorized dampers or louvers to alleviate these chemical threats. It is important to follow local guidelines and regulations in these areas

Truck Trailer Ventilation
Semi trailers are another challenge to keep cool and well ventilated with fresh air when unloading and loading. These confined spaces typically require high velocity air circulation equipment to be able to reach far into the trailer. This can often be accomplished with pedestal fans, drum blowers, basket fans and even portable blowers. Sometimes wall or ceiling fan ventilation fans are best the choice since a fork truck, hand truck or pallet jack may need to pass by on a continuous basis.