PUWER equipment guide

Dock Leveller PUWER Inspection

PUWER inspections for dock levellers and loading-bay equipment across Scotland, including platform, hinges, hydraulics and safety devices.

Inspection basis

What duty holders need to know.

Dock levellers bridge a moving vehicle and loading bay while people and handling equipment pass over them. Their platform, lip, hinges, hydraulic system, supports and controls need a risk-based inspection regime under PUWER.

The warehouse or loading-bay operator should coordinate daily user checks, maintenance and formal inspection. The inspection record should identify the leveller and actions needed before continued use.

Check the relevant HSE guidance ↗
Examination scope

What we examine on dock levellers.

The final scope depends on design, use and condition. These are the components and records commonly considered.

  • Platform, lip and load-bearing structure
  • Hinges, pivots and welds
  • Hydraulic cylinders, hoses and power pack
  • Maintenance props and restraint devices
  • Controls, interlocks and emergency stop
  • Pit condition, clearances and guarding
  • Vehicle restraint interface where fitted
  • Identification and operating information
Typical findings

Problems the examination may identify.

  • Cracking around hinges and welds
  • Hydraulic leakage
  • Damaged lip or poor vehicle overlap
  • Defective maintenance prop
  • Unsafe gaps or damaged toe guards
  • Control or interlock faults

Book a dock levellers inspection

Tell us what equipment you operate, where it is and when it is due. We will confirm the right inspection scope and arrange a practical site date.

FAQs

Dock levellers inspection FAQs

Is a dock leveller covered by LOLER?
It is generally managed as work equipment under PUWER rather than lifting equipment under LOLER, because its main purpose is to bridge levels for loading rather than lift a load as a lifting operation.
How often should a dock leveller be inspected?
The interval should be risk based, taking account of manufacturer guidance, traffic volume, environment and previous findings.
Do daily checks replace the formal inspection?
No. Daily operator checks are useful for obvious damage but do not replace the planned inspection of safety-related parts.