To Chock or Not to Chock … That Is the Question

Wheel chocks are devices that wedge between a wheel and the pavement to prevent the wheel from rolling either forward or backward. They are commonly used on forklifts parked on inclines, as well to stop trucks, trailers other vehicles from accidentally moving.

Chocks serve as an extra brake, preventing vehicles from rolling while workers are loading or unloading materials. They also frequently are used while truckers are hitching or unhitching trailers from their truck cabs.

When forklifts, trailers, trucks and other vehicles roll when they aren’t supposed to, it can easily cause injury or death. 

Safe Chock Usage

When using chocks, it’s important that you always use one that is specifically designed for use with the vehicle you are parking. Never use a makeshift chock, such as a wood scrap, a large rock, bricks, or some other type of non-approved device.

It’s up to you to make sure you have chocks available. It’s not a good idea to depend on docks or other places to provide chocks for you. Carry them in your forklift, in your truck bed, or somewhere else where you can be sure to have access to them when you need them.

If you operate a dock or warehouse, it’s a good idea to have spare chocks available just in case trucks arrive without them. Chocks can easily become lost, so it’s better to have an extra set or two just to be safe.

Using Chocks Properly at Docks

Before using chocks, make sure the vehicle is in the “park” position and that the brake is engaged. Chocks are a backup safety measure. They shouldn’t be relied on as the primary braking tool.

Chocks should be wedged between both the left and right wheels at are closest to the loading dock. Make sure that other workers — such as forklift operators waiting to load or unload your trailer — are aware that you are chocking your wheels. Trucks that are not properly

Trucks that are not properly chocked can move unexpectedly, potentially causing a gap to form between the truck bed and the dock’s edge. If forklift operators move too early, their vehicles could potentially fall into this gap.

Chocking a Freestanding Trailer

When hitching or unhitching a freestanding trailer, chock both the left and right rear axle wheels. Generally, you want to chock both the front and back wheels on both sides of the vehicle for maximum safety. You may even want to chock the front and back of each wheel.