Ever watched a massive truck parked on a slope and wondered how it stays so perfectly still? Well, the answer lies in a small but powerful tool, the Rubber Wheel Chock.
According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), 25% of warehouse accidents occur at the loading dock, and for every injury, there are 600 near misses. This risk can be minimized by implying a few steps into action, and the first among them is the use of a Rubber Wheel Chock to prevent accidents by stabilizing vehicles and machinery.
In this blog, we explore Rubber wheel chocks in detail and pen down what makes them a key player in the world of vehicle and equipment safety.
What Are Wheel Chocks?
Imagine needing to hold a vehicle or a truck in place. You can’t just rely on brakes, especially if you are on a slope or rough terrain. This is where Rubber wheel chocks come in. These wedge-shaped blocks sit snugly against the wheels to prevent any unwanted movement.
Rubber Wheel Chocks are especially popular because they offer superior grip, durability, and strength. They are made from industrial-grade rubber that’s tough enough to withstand even the heaviest loads.
Other options include plastic and metal, but rubber outshines them with its slip resistance, flexibility, and long life. While plastic chocks can crack under pressure and metal chocks can be prone to corrosion or slipping, rubber provides a balance of toughness and adaptability, making them suitable for a wide range of vehicles and equipment.
Why Are Wheel Chocks Necessary?
Ever parked on an incline, only to feel the uneasy roll of your vehicle as soon as you let go of the brake? That’s a disaster waiting to happen!
Wheel chocks act as your safety net, ensuring the vehicle stays in place, no matter what. Rubber wheel chocks are not just a recommendation; they are an essential requirement in many industries.
Regulatory bodies like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and DOT (Department of Transportation) mandate their use in specific scenarios to prevent accidents. Whether you're working on a car, parking a heavy truck, or securing aircraft on the tarmac, wheel chocks are crucial to safety.
Common Scenarios Where Wheel Chocks Are Essential- Parking on Slopes: Forget the panic of an accidental roll. Rubber wheel chocks are your hero here.
- Vehicle Maintenance: When jacking up a car, a solid set of chocks keeps the rest of the wheel steady.
- Loading and Unloading Trucks: Heavy loads can cause shifts, but wheel chocks make sure the truck stays still.
Different Applications of Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks are essential for keeping vehicles, aircraft, and equipment securely in place, especially on slopes or uneven surfaces. Let's explore their critical applications and how they enhance safety across various industries.
For towing a vehicle
While towing a vehicle, stability is crucial to avoid unwanted shifts or accidents. Wheel chocks act as safety measures to keep the towed vehicle from rolling during hook-up or while parked temporarily. By positioning chocks behind the tires, you can ensure that your vehicle remains still, especially on slopes or while maneuvering it onto the towing platform.
Transporting a Car or Tires
Transporting vehicles, whether for auto-hauling, moving, or shipping, requires added security to prevent any shifting during transit. Wheel chocks are used to lock vehicles in place on trailers or transport trucks.Repairing a Vehicle
Whether you are doing routine maintenance or performing extensive repairs, safety should be a top priority. Wheel chocks provide an extra layer of protection by keeping the vehicle in place while it is elevated on jacks or stands. This prevents dangerous rollbacks or slips, especially if the vehicle is on an incline.
Storing a Tire or Vehicle
Storing vehicles for an extended period, particularly in garages or storage facilities, can present safety concerns. A stationary vehicle may seem secure, but without a parking brake or additional restraint, there is always the risk of a slow roll, especially on sloped surfaces. Wheel chocks ensure that your vehicle or tire remains firmly in place, preventing any gradual movements over time.
Keeping Airplane Stationary on the Airport Apron
Airplanes, even when parked, require robust safety measures due to their weight and the potential for movement caused by wind or slight inclines. Wheel chocks are used to stabilize aircraft while they're on the apron, preventing any unintentional rolling. Rubber wheel chocks, which are widely used in aviation, provide strong traction and durability, even in the face of changing weather conditions.
Types of Wheel Chocks
Choosing the right wheelchock is critical. Different vehicles and equipment call for specific types of chocks to ensure maximum safety.
- Standard Wheel Chocks for Cars: These are lightweight and easy to use. Perfect for everyday vehicles, whether you're working in your garage or parking on a hill.
- Heavy-Duty Chocks for Trucks and Trailers: Built to last, these chocks are designed for larger vehicles, ensuring stability even under the heaviest loads.
- Specialized Chocks for Aircraft and Industrial Equipment: These chocks are extra-large, designed to keep airplanes and heavy-duty industrial machines in place. They also often come with anti-slip treads to guarantee grip on any surface.
- Grip: Rubber chocks provide an unbeatable grip, ensuring no slippage on any surface.
- Size: The larger the wheel, the bigger the chock needed. Rubber chocks come in multiple sizes to fit every wheel type.
- Material: Rubber is your best bet for durability and slip resistance.
- Weight Capacity: Choose a chock that can support the weight of your vehicle or equipment.
How to Use Wheel Chocks Properly?
Now that you’ve got the right rubber wheel chocks, let us explore how you can use them correctly and make sure that you are locking in that safety.
Step 1: Use the right chocks for the right vehicle, and don't gamble with random solutions. Invest in the proper chocks for the job and ensure you have enough to keep everything secure.
Step 2: If possible, try to park the vehicle on a flat surface. If you are loading a dock, park as close to the dock as possible.
Step 3: Kick or use a tool to push the chock firmly under the wheel or your vehicle.
Step 4: For maximum security and peace of mind, place additional chocks wherever you feel necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Wheel Chocks
Even the best chocks can’t do their job if not used correctly. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure smooth functioning.
- Using the Wrong Size or Type: A tiny chock won’t hold a big truck. Match the chock according to the vehicle.
- Poor Placement: Uneven ground can cause improper placement. Make sure the surface is flat and stable.
- Neglecting Inspections: Don’t overlook wear and tear. Regularly inspect your chocks for any cracks or damage.
Essential Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Wheel Chocks in Top Condition
A little care goes a long way in extending the lifespan of your rubber wheel chocks. Thus, maintain your wheel chocks and ensure that your safety isn’t at risk anymore.
- Inspect for Damage Regularly: Look out for cracks, gouges, or excessive wear. Replace chocks as soon as you notice signs of damage.
- Clean Them Often: Dirt, oil, and grime can compromise the grip of rubber chocks. Wipe them down after use to maintain their effectiveness.
- Store Them Properly: Keep your chocks in a cool, dry place to prevent them from degrading over time.
Conclusion
Rubber Wheel Chocks are the unsung heroes of vehicle safety. Whether you are securing your car, a truck, an airplane, or industrial equipment, their role in preventing accidents knows no limits.
By choosing the right rubber chocks and utilizing them the right way, you are not just following safety guidelines but also ensuring peace of mind simultaneously. So don't wait for an accident to happen because, as we all know, prevention is better than cure.
Ready to keep your vehicles and equipment safe? Check out the BluBird Rubber wheel chocks at The Blue Hose, designed for the ultimate durability, and invest in our Rubber wheel chocks today to mark yourself safe.
To talk to us about any further questions or doubts regarding Rubber Wheel Chocks, you can call us on+1.952.324.0802 or mail us at wecare@thebluehose.com
