Floating docks have become popular over recent years due to their ease of installation and maintenance. An added advantage to these structures is that they do not cause damage to the seabed since they are not embedded in them. For private and publicly accessible marina owners alike, these structures ensure you operate at ease, but like every other structure, they do raise some safety concerns.
This article aims to address some of these issues while allowing you the opportunity to understand the role they play in satisfying your comfortability needs.
Anchoring Floating Docks
A faulty link between your floating dock and the shoreline can cause several issues. The versatility of anchoring your floating dock should be comparable to that of anchoring a boat to a pier.
To ensure safety, perform the following steps while connecting your floating dock to land;
- Measure the dock’s width.
- Look for a spot on your marina with the stable ground. Dig two holes in this solid earth that are parallel to the shore and at least 4 feet deep.
- To shape the footings, fill the holes with concrete.
- The dock should be positioned in the center of the concrete footing.
- Secure the dock to the footings with bolts and nuts.
- Drill any holes in the deck of the floating dock if you want to install ship cleats so you can tie your boat to it. One cleat should be connected to each corner of the dock closest to the shore side. Make sure the bolts and nuts are tightened.
Dock safety is directly connected with how you install these floating items, so ensure you contact a technician for more accurate installation.
Are These Docks Physically Compromised
Upon purchase, these docks are physically stable enough to handle the prescribed weight by their respective manufacturers. But as time goes on, maintenance and repairs determine the safety compromises that will be made on your marina. However, boat docks do not need to be replaced regularly. Often all you need to do is fix a few things and your floating dock with barrels is good as new.
Here are some of the most popular problems with floating docks, as well as viable alternatives for your dock.
Addressing Shaky Floating Docks
If there is a lot of erosion on the pier, you won’t be able to repair anything. Pilings are also pushed into the ground, if they become dislodged, make sure to verify their dignity and replace them right away.
Addressing Cracked Wood In The Dock
If the floating dock is made of wood, it is susceptible to cracking, particularly when it comes into contact with water. As the wood absorbs moisture and expands, it may become twisted and bent. When only a small portion of a beam or wood piece is affected, replace it. Otherwise, the whole floating dock should be replaced.
Addressing Rust Issues
Metals and water don’t mix well. Your floating dock and floating dock anchors will eventually need to be replaced. Use galvanized or coated metal or fiberglass grating for your floating dock when there is still no serious damage. This will give your floating dock a fresh start, from the poles to the screws.
Addressing Rotten Wood
When wood is subjected to extreme conditions, it can rot. When a small rot size appears, it may not be a cause for concern. When you see one, make sure to replace it. Allowing it to spread might end up compromising the structural integrity of your floating dock.
Slip-And-Fall Concerns
Slip-and-fall accidents are common on docks. Also on textured surfaces, the presence of water greatly increases the slickness of any surface material. Non-slip footwear should be required for all employees. Visitors to the docks should wear appropriate footwear as well. Because most marinas have a store on-site, selling non-slip shoes is a perfect way to ensure that everyone who forgets theirs has access to safe footwear while also generating additional revenue.
Obstacle Hazards
There are also obstacle hazards, in addition to the problems that arise from wet docks. Ensure that all dock walkways are kept free of anything that may obstruct visitors’ mobility. Obstructed docks can also prevent the proper execution of fire evacuation if the need arises. The docks themselves must be maintained. Employees should check the dock regularly and make any appropriate repairs as soon as possible.
Floating Docks Lifespan Concerns
Your floating docks’ longevity is determined by how often you use them, how much you repair them, and how well you maintain them. Environmental factors, for example, have a huge effect on how long your floating docks last. However, this type of dock could, in theory, last for more than a decade.
Boater Safety
A dock presents a high risk for boater accidents, especially if inadequate information is not availed to the boater about docking. Ensure you educate all boaters that use your marina on safe docking practices. Also, ensure you obtain a marina’s insurance cover to ensure you are protected in such cases.
Conclusion
Floating docks are the new way of installing docks for marinas in this century. For the best experience, it is advisable that you find a jetty pontoon for sale and have it installed by an expert to ensure you get both an eye-appealing and safe solution for your docking needs.
As you install, repair, replace, and maintain items on your property, do remember that dock safety is partly your responsibility as a marina owner. Are you planning to get a new boat? Then check this boat trader website to find amazing deals.
All the best with running your marina business!
