Training for Loading Dock Repairmen: A Future Employee’s Guide
Proper training is crucial when repairing loading docks to avoid the risk of injury or fatality on the job. To ensure a loading dock repairman gets the job right the first time, it is key to search for the maximum training for your position. If you’re new to industry or returning, here are some key certifications and programs you should keep an eye out for when becoming a loading dock repairman.
Education Is Key
Generally, a loading dock repairman requires a high school diploma or GED. Once you’ve received a high school diploma or GED, look into marine maintenance technology training schools.
On average, loading dock repairman positions require one year of work experience. To put your best foot forward, focus on getting the education you need.
These programs prepare students by teaching them how to perform basic maintenance on outboard and inboard engines, outdrive propulsions systems, and electrical systems. Marine technology classes cover topics such as marine electrical systems, marine engine systems, marine electronics, and marine plumbing, technical math, and sanitation systems.
Some programs, such as the Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, NY, only require a one-year marine mechanic certification program. Others sometimes need a two-year associate’s degree program to receive their certification.
The certification length is entirely dependent on your location. Regardless of the training, make sure to research the top programs in your area for an affordable and beneficial experience.
OSHA 16/30 Certified
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends Outreach Training Programs as an introduction to occupational safety and health covered by OSHA 29 CFR 1926. There are two types of certification cards you receive from training – a 10-hour and 30-hour certification card.
A 10-hour card is for entry-level workers. The 10-hour program informs you of worker rights, employer responsibilities, and how to file a complaint and provides basic awareness training on the recognition, avoidance, abatement, and prevention of workplace hazards.
A 30-hour card is for construction employees and supervisors. This specific program provides extended training on the 10-hour course.
Certified PPE / Injury Prevention
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn to prevent workplace injury or illness. It is vital to have as much safety training as possible when repairing loading docks. PPE includes an array of equipment such as gloves, respirators, coveralls, vests, safety glasses and shoes, earplugs or earmuffs, hard hats, or vests and full bodysuits.
A certified trainer or employer should conduct a PPE / injury course. They will offer any information on safety and injury prevention, but an OSHA 10-hour certification card is for this course.
Drug Screenings and Department of Transportation (DOT) Physicals
Drug screenings are crucial for future loading dock repairmen. Be the best you can be on the job. Keep a sound mind and maintain a clean bill of health for any potential drug screenings from your employer.
Employers may require a physical from your doctor before you can work. A DOT physical is to keep both you and your clients safe. After you have set up a DOT physical with your doctor, here is what you should expect from your appointment:
Vision – Drivers must have a 20/40 acuity in each eye with or without correction. If you have glasses, bring any documentation and your glasses to the appointment.
Hearing – Drivers must be able to hear at least 40 dB with or without a hearing aid. Bring any hearing loss paperwork to your appointment.
Blood Pressure – Drivers shouldn’t have high blood pressure or any irregular heartbeats.
Urinalysis – A urine test is generally to check for any diseases such as diabetes.
Physical Examination – Drivers must have a clean bill of health and should be recovered from any previous surgeries. Doctors look at the following:
General appearance
Eyes
Ears
Mouth and throat
Heart
Lungs and chest, excluding breast examination
Abdomen and viscera
Vascular
Genito-urinary
Extremities
Spine and other musculoskeletal abnormalities
Neurological
Arc Flash Hazard Compliant (NFPA 70E)
An arc flash is a low impedance in an electrical system. A low connection allows the movement of unwanted electric discharge through the air to one voltage phase to another. In some cases, the electric discharge bounces to the ground and leads to an explosion. This explosion is known as an arc blast, which can lead to significant fire hazards and workplace injury or death.
Because of how dangerous arc flashes are, it is recommended by OSHA to consistently conduct assessments of all electrical equipment as well as wear proper safety gear when dealing with electrical equipment.
Loading Dock Design Courses
Rite-Hide offers an introductory course on loading dock design and loading dock safety. It is vital to know everything about the equipment you work on. Each session is only one hour and offers information on the following:
Trends affecting the loading dock
Dock layout considerations
Safety issues at the dock
Innovative solutions
Product recommendations
Once you completed this short course, you are one step closer to being the best repairman you can be.
CDL Driver’s License
Some employers require a Class A, B, or C Driver’s License with a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving record acceptable to the insurance carrier. While these classifications differ in each state, they are still similar. Remember to look up the requirements for your state outside of this guide.
Class A – A combination of 1 or more motor vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) greater than 26,000 lbs. where the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is less than 10,000 lbs. To obtain this license, you must be over the age of 18 and pass a written and driving test.
Class B – A motor vehicle with a GVWR greater than 26,000 lbs. or a motorcycle greater than 26,000 lbs. that tows a vehicle less than 10,000 lbs. To obtain this license, you must be over the age of 18 and pass a written and driving test.
Class C – A motor vehicle or a combination of motor vehicles with a GVWR greater than 26,000 lbs. where the GVWR of the towing vehicle is less than 26,000 lbs. A vehicle that isn’t in the Class A or B section and designed to transport more than 15 passengers. Another exception could be a vehicle that transports hazardous materials. To obtain this license, you must be over the age of 18 and pass a written and driving test.
Invest Your Training with PartsBrite
Getting certified in a new career is challenging and complicated. You should feel comfortable with your resources and the products you purchase after your certification. You can trust Parts Brite to have all your loading dock product needs.
Parts Brite specializes in providing American-made, top-quality aftermarket loading dock leveler parts. Even though our sales office is in California, our distribution warehouses enable us to ship loading dock parts throughout the United States rapidly.
You can view all of our products online or contact us at 1-855-PARTSBRITE (1-855-727-8727) if you have any questions.
