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Lighting semi-trailers parked at the loading dock has been a long-standing challenge in the food industry since glass is prohibited in and around production areas.
But the problem is quickly fading, thanks to LED dock lights that not only circumvent the issue but also save energy and improve light quality. The only challenge is to choose wisely since there are many choices available.
Here are six basic questions to ask about LED dock lights, along with answers, to help keep materials moving safely and efficiently at the dock--and do so cost-effectively for years to come.
1. How can I judge the dock light's performance? LED dock lights on the market today are designed to last a minimum of 50,000 hours. Unlike traditional incandescent light bulbs, however, LEDs lose their brightness over time rather than simply burning out relatively quickly. This is known as lumen maintenance and it's a key factor when choosing a light because 50,000 hours doesn't do much good if the light only delivers 20 percent of its brightness shortly after its installed.
Make sure you check out the lumen maintenance of the light before you purchase it. Ask whether the light has been third-party tested. If it has, it's a true indication of the quality of the light design and the LEDs it uses.
2. Will the light's overall design contribute to longevity? There's more to longevity than a light's lumen maintenance. With forklifts moving in and out of trailers, it's important to gauge a light's ability to withstand repeated impacts. That means the dock light head, which houses the LEDs, needs to be specifically designed to withstand the rigors of the dock.
The head also needs to dissipate heat, which is essential since LEDs generate heat and will dim prematurely if not properly cooled.
Some lights use fans to keep the LEDs cool, but ask about any potential problems that could occur if the fan fails. Other LED lights have heat dissipation designed into the head, eliminating the need for a fan, which may not be designed to last the published lifetime of the lights themselves.
