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When using ramps in combination with powered vehicles, here are a few safety issues to remember:
1. Brake gently. The momentum of a sudden braking maneuver on a ramp can cause the ramp to pull away from the loading area, or collapse altogether depending on the force.2. Most people place chocks on the wheels of a truck to be loaded or unloaded, but many forget to fix the parking brake. Don't miss this important step.
3. Sometimes the weight of a forklift or other vehicle going up the ramp can actually raise the back of the trailer or truck. You can help prevent this by putting jack stands under the rear of the trailer.
4. When driving up a ramp, make certain you keep the "powered wheels" or drive wheels in the uphill direction.
When in doubt, always consult the owner's manual of your ramp for additional safety tips and precautions with specific load/unload operations.
Guru Spotlight |
Mary White |