Enhancing loading bay safety with Stertil Combilok
Loading bay equipment specialist Stertil has outlined the safety and efficiency benefits of its Combilok automatic vehicle restraint system.
“In the competitive world of industrial logistics, ensuring safety and efficiency in loading bay operations is paramount,” said the firm.
“For many decades, Stertil has been at the forefront of providing reliable loading bay equipment in the UK and Europe, with the Combilok automatic vehicle restraint system being one its key solutions for improving loading bay safety.”
The company emphasises the importance of safety in the context of loading bay operations.
“If your business operates loading bays, you should be aware of the challenges that can lead to accidents during loading activities: high throughput of goods, time-pressures, and servicing a wide variety of vehicles,” it said.
“And this is on top of the common issue of poor communication between drivers and warehouse employees.”
Among the specific issues highlighted by Stertil are vehicle creep and drive-off.
“Both vehicle creep and vehicle drive-off (sometimes called ‘driveways’) can cause dangerous gaps between the loading bay vehicle and the loading dock during operations,” explained the firm.
“However, they occur for different reasons.
“Drive-off happens when a stationary vehicle pulls away prematurely, often due to poor communication between the driver and warehouse employees.
“Vehicle creep is caused by forklifts and other manual handling equipment moving between the trailer and loading dock, jolting the vehicle and causing it to creep forward.
“The resulting large gaps between vehicle and dock can have serious consequences. Both people and equipment can fall, leading to serious accidents and injury. Additionally, falling loads can cause spillages and leaks.”
The company says its Combilok solution is a game changer in loading bay safety.
“The Combilok system by Stertil is designed to tackle these challenges head-on. Its innovative features make it a reliable and efficient solution for securing vehicles during loading and unloading.
“The system’s galvanised design, constructed from strong tubular material, ensures durability and long-lasting performance, even in harsh weather conditions. With no moving parts below floor level, it minimises the risk of mechanical failures, enhancing overall reliability…
“The Combilok’s automatic vehicle restraint function is a cornerstone of its safety features. The system employs an integral sensor and microprocessor control to accurately position the wheel block, securing the vehicle within approximately 30 seconds.
“Acoustic and optical signals activate before the system engages, providing clear warnings to nearby personnel. Additionally, the emergency stop button allows for immediate deactivation, offering an extra layer of safety in critical situations.”
Improved operational efficiency is a further advantage, adds Stertil.
“The above-ground installation requires no civil works, facilitating a quick and cost-effective setup. Its simple maintenance, with all components easily accessible, ensures minimal downtime. The rapid restraint process significantly reduces vehicle turnaround times, enhancing throughput and productivity in the loading bay.”
It also highlights the product’s ability to be customised and to integrate with existing infrastructure.
“Flexibility is vital in diverse loading environments, and the Combilok offers customisable wheel block heights to accommodate various vehicle types. It seamlessly integrates with other dock systems, such as dock levellers and overhead doors, creating a cohesive and efficient loading bay operation.”
The company concluded: “The Combilok by Stertil is more than just a vehicle restraint system; it’s a comprehensive solution for enhancing safety and efficiency in your loading bay operations.
“Its advanced features, combined with robust construction and user-friendly design, make it an invaluable investment for businesses aiming to protect their workforce and optimise their logistics processes.”
