A dock leveler pit is formed into a building wall and floor to house a dock leveler. They have 3 enclosed sides and a floor that surrounds the dock leveler when installed.
Types of Construction
A dock leveler pit is formed and constructed either with an embedded steel pit form (also known as a pan or kit) of 3 or 4 sides (the 4th being the floor) or using wood and curb angle to form the pit. A premade steel pit form is often the most economical way to form the pit. Depending on the contractor, there may be one concrete pour with this method, considering it a time saving construction.
Some dock leveler manufactures offer 4 sided pan kits that ship with the dock leveler and are installed in one setting. This method is not recommended due to common integrity problems with forming the pit.
When forming a pit without a pan kit, a wood frame is used to pour concrete and lay angle around the edges. Once cured, the wood is removed leaving the formed cement with steel curbs. This method limits the steel used in the pit and is often considered a more-thorough construction.
The pit is often angled by 1/2" from the back to the front for water drainage.
A dock leveler pit is sized based on the dock leveler manufacture's pit specification. Refer to your manufacture's guidelines when laying out your pit.
When power is involved, junction box cutouts or spaces are left in the pan or concrete to allow for running wires to the dock leveler motor. Consult with your manufacture for specification requirements.
How is a dock leveler secured in the pit?
The dock leveler is leveled with the floor via shim stock and is typically welded to the rear curb angle at the dock leveler frame, and welded at the curb angle on the face of the wall. It is important that the steel is securely embedded into the concrete around the dock for a strong hold and install. Any compromised curb steel needs to be addressed immediately. It is recommeded to inspect the curb steel and dock leveler welds periodically based on frequency of use. Refer to this article for general planned maintenance information.
Cantilevered Pits
Consistent with our article on The Confusing Role of Loading Dock Driveways, a leveler pit can be protruded from the wall to keep a truck further away from the wall. This plays a role in the driveway layout and geometry. Refer to the referenced article to learn more.
