The correct use of loading ramps is absolutely critical in ensuring both safety and efficiency when loading or unloading heavy machinery for transport.
When equipment of considerable weight and size is being moved or transported, there is always the potential for injury or damage to equipment and site infrastructure.
Loading ramps and their use are a key element for contractors and operators. Because of their significant role in safety, loading ramps need to be large part of the risk management on any site.
High potential for injury
When noting that people have been fatally injured after being crushed by equipment that has fallen while being unloaded, and other reports where excavators fall off loading ramps, it’s no surprise that that loading ramps and their use receive serious attention.
In one instance where a forklift had fallen off a trailer, it was found there were no holes provided in the trailer for ramp securing pins to be inserted.
Further investigation showed that the ramps had not been secured in any way, allowing them to become easily dislodged from the edge of the trailer.
In another accident in unloading an excavator, a bolt was used to loosely secure the ramps to the tray of the vehicle. The bolt was not a component that was supplied or recommended by the manufacturer and did not prevent the ramps from dislodging. This clearly demonstrated that only pins and R-clips that that are supplied or recommended by the ramp manufacturer must be used .
According to Jimmy of Jetland Loading Ramps, these instances reinforce the message that safety devices, components and instructions are followed to minimise the risks of equipment handling.
Following instructions is critical
“Manufacturer’s instructions for correctly installing and using securing systems must be observed and strictly followed,” Jimmy said.
“When using equipment ramps, it is important to secure components with pins and clips that have been supplied or recommended by the manufacturer. In addition, instructions for correctly installing and using securing systems must be followed exactly.
“Ramps must be correctly rated and suitable for the size and weight of plant being loaded or unloaded, including attachments.
“Other common sense safeguards include the use of seat belts by operators during the loading and unloading process and ensuring that the ramps are lined up with the wheels or tracks of plant being loaded or unloaded.
“Damaged, deformed or fractured ramps pose a real risk. Ramps should be carefully inspected to make sure their safety has not been compromised. Ramps must only be used if they have been properly secured to the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.”
High performance and safety
Jetland Loading Ramps has been providing reliable solutions to businesses that involve many industries. It says its reputation for quality and safety has been well-earned, with its ramps often considered the best loading solution.
“Using appropriate loading ramps can make all the difference to safety and efficiency,” Jimmy said.
“No one understands this better than Jetland, who have been designing and manufacturing loading ramps that have proven to satisfy a complete range of industry needs. The range includes models for loading and unloading goods from railway cars, trucks and containers.”
Deep understanding of the market
Through its extensive experience, Jetland fully understands equipment handling. This has contributed to its reputation for safety quality and innovation when it comes to robust ramp solutions for all types of businesses.
In addition to its standard range, Jetland can also build custom ramps to suit any particular needs or application. These may include removalist ramps, rolling ramps, wheelchair ramps and other tailored solutions.
All Jetland’s ramps are manufactured from the highest quality materials and to an engineered design that makes them ideal to operate efficiently and safely throughout the toughest conditions, including those found in industries such as mining and construction.
All about ‘safety first’
Jetland’s priority is safety and meeting and exceeding compliance with ramp safety standards through its design and manufacturing process.
All ramp models are made with anti-slip surfaces. Specially designed and tested locking pins ensure that ramps cannot move once ramps are locked in place for use.
The standard range of Jetland ramps includes the A-Series which are suitable for rubber track machines in 2-6 tonne load capacities and 2.5-4.5 metres in length. The B-Series caters for rubber track and rubber tyre machines and are available in 2-6t load capacities and 1.8-4.8m lengths.
The Jetland C-Series ramps are designed for rubber track, rubber tyre machines and are available in 4-21t load capacities and machines from 2.5-4.5m in length.
Heavy duty ramps
Designed for larger equipment, Jetland D-Series ramps are suitable for loading
and unloading machines and attachment packages of up to 42 tonnes, and 2.5-4.5m in length. These heavy duty 42t rated D-Series ramps are the first available in Australia.
Jetland ramps are covered by a 12-month warranty, and Jetland has a free Australia- wide shipping policy to make the ramp purchasing process hassle-free.
The company’s customer service team is fully equipped to support ramp users with any information or questions, while further information about the full range of Jetland loading ramps may be found at www.jetlandramps.com.au .
