In the transportation sector, trailers designed for the transportation of goods are used for loading and unloading operations at warehouses, depots, and ramps, depending on the nature of the cargo. During these operational procedures, certain safety precautions need to be taken. Upon arriving at the area for loading or unloading, the driver should activate the emergency brake of the tractor before exiting the cabin. The next safety measure to be taken is to engage the emergency brake of the trailer. Unfortunately, many drivers tend to overlook another crucial safety measure - the use of wheel chocks. However, wheel chocks are indispensable for the safety of every professional driver. In this article, I will discuss the importance of using wheel chocks and how proper chocking should be done
WHEEL CHOCK
CHOCK A wheel chock is a safety device in the shape of a wedge placed on the tractor or trailer wheel to prevent unintentional movement forward or backward. This safety device is among the mandatory equipment to be carried within the vehicle, according to the Highway Traffic Regulations, and it should be used as part of safety measures during parking and stopping.
In Europe, automatic wheel chock applications are available at ramp gates, and this is considered the safest method of wheel chocking. However, in our country, the use of automatic wheel chocks is almost non-existent. Therefore, it becomes an important responsibility for drivers to use portable wheel chocks. Portable wheel chocks can be made of metal, plastic, or wood, but their purpose remains the same
CORRECT USE OF WHEEL CHOCKS
The proper use of wheel chocks involves placing them in the direction that suits the slope of the area. The safest chocking method is to apply wheel chocks bidirectionally (front and back) to the middle wheel on the left side of the trailer.
Let's imagine that drivers neglect one or more safety precautions, such as engaging the tractor's emergency brake, trailer's emergency brake, and using wheel chocks during loading or unloading...
During loading or unloading, the vehicle's dock levelers accumulate energy through air movement. This stored energy is equivalent to the energy required for one wheel rotation of the vehicle. When a vehicle's wheel rotates, it means it starts moving. Uncontrolled movement, as a result of the vehicle's unintended motion, can lead to collisions with other vehicles, causing property damage, injuries, or even fatal accidents. To prevent such accidents, drivers must always take proactive measures. Otherwise, unwanted consequences may become unavoidable