OSHA Regulations for Loading Dock Ramps in the Longshoring Industry

• Ramp load limit: each ramp should be plainly marked with its load capacity. The marked capacity should not be exceeded
• Traffic control system: an organized system of vehicular and pedestrian traffic control should be established and maintained at each entrance/exit ramp and on ramps within the vessel as traffic flow warrants.
• Pedestrian traffic: bow, stern, and side port ramps also used for pedestrian access shall meet the requirements. Such ramps shall provide a physical separation between pedestrian and vehicular routes. When the design of the ramp prevents physical separation, a positive means shall be established to prevent simultaneous use of the ramp by vehicles and pedestrians
• Ramp maintenance: ramps shall be properly maintained and secured
• Cargo weights: cargo to be handled via a Ro-Ro (roll-on roll-off) ramp shall be plainly marked with its weight in pounds (kilograms). Alternatively, the cargo stow plan or equivalent record containing the actual gross weight of the load may be used to determine the weight of the cargo.
• Tractors: tractors used in Ro-Ro operations shall have sufficient power to ascend ramp inclines safely and sufficient braking capacity to descend ramp inclines safely