Door Industry Journal - Winter 2023

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 76 THE door industry journal winter 2023 Industrial Doors & Shutters Successful Launch of dhf Level 2 Award in Dock Leveller Safety In a major step toward enhancing safety in loading bay equipment, the Door & Hardware Federation (dhf) and The Association of Loading and Elevating Equipment Manufacturers (ALEM) joined forces to introduce the Level 2 Award in Dock Leveller Safety. This groundbreaking course had a remarkable inaugural launch, with its first session fully booked in October. Designed by dhf’s Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Steve Hill, this comprehensive course comprises six units, each culminating in a relevant multiple-choice exam. Importantly, as with all of dhf’s core training courses, the Level 2 Award can also be accredited through ABBE, offering participants a formal recognition of their knowledge and expertise in dock leveller safety. To support the training process, dhf and ALEM have crafted an invaluable onsite guide. This guide references applicable legislation and standards, serving as an indispensable resource for all individuals involved in the installation, commissioning, repair, and maintenance of dock leveller installations. dhf’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens, underlines the course’s significance, stating, “The course ensures compliance with current legislation for Dock Levellers, covered by BS EN 1398:2009, whether they are new or existing. It provides clarity and in-depth insights into several types of Dock Levellers, their associated hazards, safety specifications, essential marking requirements, installation instructions, operation and maintenance procedures, and inspection protocols. Moreover, it covers the safe and effective aspects of repair and maintenance, dealing with non-compliance issues, and understanding the requirements of the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations (SMSR) concerning Dock Levellers.” Founded in 1973, ALEM represents UK manufacturers and suppliers of loading bay equipment, encompassing dock levellers, scissor lifts, tail lifts, and dock shelters. The organisation actively advocates for the interests of its members in negotiations with government departments, the Health & Safety Executive, and other relevant organisations. ALEM has established a reputation synonymous with compliance, quality, and confidence. President of ALEM, Richard Spinks, highlights the collaborative effort, stating, “ALEM recognised the need for a dock leveller safety training course and, together with dhf, we have developed and delivered this one-day course. We approached dhf due to their experience in course development and delivery of training courses associated with industrial doors. The synergy between dock levellers and industrial doors made it the natural choice to form a long-standing relationship.” For those interested in this essential dock leveller safety course, bookings can be made via the dhf website at https://bit.ly/3OVEMls or by scanning the QR code below. Safety in loading bay equipment remains paramount, and the collaborative efforts of dhf and ALEM aim to bolster the expertise and knowledge of those responsible for ensuring it.

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