Loading bay buffers are used to protect loading docks from damage. They are usually placed between the dock or onto the docks themselves to reduce damage from incoming vehicles. Buffers will attempt to deflect or absorb the vehicle impact, helping to reduce expensive damage to infrastructure and assets.
Loading bay buffers come in many forms, including plastic, steel or rubber. Rubber buffers tend to be the go to option as they can be easily installed directly onto loading docks to absorb impacts. While buffers can absorb damage they should not be the only protection used. Truck wheel stops and loading bay wheel guides can help direct trucks into place and bring them to a stop safely.
Loading bay buffers can also be installed onto surfaces such as walls, columns, pillars, infrastructure and more. Buffers come in many shapes and sizes and can be put into place easily to provide instant protection to the affected area.
Why install loading bay buffers
Installing loading bay buffers will help to -
- Reduce expensive repair costs - by absorbing vehicle impacts, the buffers will protect infrastructure from harm, reducing the need for constant expensive repairs.
- Reduce damage to vehicles - while buffers won't fully protect vehicles during impact, they can lessen the effect of the damage
- Cost-effective - most loading bay protectors come in a modular format for easy installation. This also allows for easy replacement if damaged.
Types of loading dock buffers
Loading dock buffers come in various designs and materials, all suitable for different levels of loading bay protection.
Rubber dock buffers - rubber tends to be the most popular material used in dock buffers. Rubber or polymer buffers have an excellent degree of flexibility and will mount easily to uneven surfaces. Rubber also allows for excellent impact and sound absorption, deflecting impacts as much as possible with little noise.
Plastic dock buffers - plastic buffers are very lightweight but easy to install. Plastic buffers are better suited for light-duty requirements, where they can protect against light work vehicles.
Steel dock buffers - steel buffers are a highly durable loading dock option. Most steel dock buffers are equipped with a rubber front to boost impact absorption further . Steel designs are ideal for use on the ground area of a loading bay, perhaps in the form of truck wheel stops where they can assist with bringing HGVs to a halt. Steel is also very resistant to chips or cracks over time.
