On a recent site visit, one of our clients asked if OSHA’s 1910 four foot rule applies to loading docks. The short answer is usually, yes.  Most loading docks are 48-52” tall, but we do see instances of docks a few inches shy of four feet–say 46”.  By strict letter of the law, a 46” dock does not require fall protection under the provisions of OSHA 1910.  That said, even docks coming in under 4 feet should utilize some sort of fall protection system…

On a recent site visit, one of our clients asked if OSHA’s 1910 four foot rule applies to loading docks. The short answer is usually, yes.  Most loading docks are 48-52” tall, but we do see instances of docks a few inches shy of four feet–say 46”.  By strict letter of the law, a 46” dock does not require fall protection under the provisions of OSHA 1910.  That said, even docks coming in under 4 feet should utilize some sort of fall protection system and here is why…