Loading Dock Guardrails: Protecting Workers from Falls

A loading dock is considered an “unprotected side edge” in a building, according to OSHA, which
means fall protection is required if it is open and 4 feet or more above the ground below. Fall
protection can be as simple as a guardrail, a solid barrier made of metal or other material designed
to prevent falling.

OSHA has specific requirements for installing a guardrail, including but not limited to the following. Consult OHSA standards for exact official wording of requirements.

• A top height of approximately 42 inches above the working surface (usually the ground).
• A rail halfway between the top height and the working surface.
• Vertical smaller rails or other guards in between the edges of the guardrail, no more than 19 inches apart.
• Rails must be able to withstand at least 200 pounds of force.

There are several pre-manufactured options from multiple manufacturers available, like swing gates, raise-able barriers, and expandable steel scissor systems.

Guardrails don’t have to be immovable; they can be set up to move away if a loading dock is in use. Smaller docks, ones that are raised less than 4 feet off the working surface, can still be a risk. Consider installing brightly colored safety chains or an awareness barrier to alert employees to the potential hazard.

Hastings Insurance Company is not affiliated with OSHA or MIOSHA. Complete standards should be reviewed before making any compliance-related decisions.