At Big Rock Mountain, safety is our top priority. Whether you're a professional driver, a weekend adventurer, or a logistics manager, understanding the importance of wheel chocks can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety of both people and vehicles. In this blog, we will delve into why wheel chocks are essential, how they work, and the best practices for using them.

What Are Wheel Chocks?

Wheel chocks are wedge-shaped devices placed against a vehicle's wheels to prevent accidental movement. They are typically made from durable materials like rubber, polyurethane, or metal, and come in various sizes to accommodate different types of vehicles and equipment. While they may seem like a simple tool, their role in vehicle safety is critical.

Why Are Wheel Chocks Important?

1. Preventing Accidents: The primary purpose of wheel chocks is to prevent vehicles from rolling or moving unintentionally. This is especially important on inclines or uneven surfaces where gravity can cause a parked vehicle to shift. By securely holding the wheels in place, wheel chocks help avoid accidents that could lead to injury or damage.

2. Ensuring Worker Safety: In industries such as construction, mining, and transportation, workers often need to operate or work around large vehicles and heavy equipment. Wheel chocks provide an additional layer of safety, ensuring that vehicles remain stationary during loading, unloading, maintenance, or repair activities.

3. Compliance with Regulations: Various safety regulations and standards mandate the use of wheel chocks in specific scenarios. For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires wheel chocks for certain parked vehicles in loading docks and other areas. Compliance with these regulations not only promotes safety but also helps avoid legal penalties and fines.

4. Protecting Property: Uncontrolled vehicle movement can result in significant damage to property, including other vehicles, infrastructure, and equipment. Using wheel chocks helps mitigate the risk of such damage, saving time and money on repairs and replacements.

How to Use Wheel Chocks Correctly

1. Choose the Right Chocks: Select wheel chocks that are appropriate for the size and weight of the vehicle. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure compatibility.

2. Positioning: Place wheel chocks against the wheels on both sides of the vehicle. For added safety, use a pair of chocks for each wheel. Ensure that the chocks are in direct contact with the tires and positioned perpendicular to the ground.

3. Surface Considerations: Ensure that the surface where the chocks are placed is stable and free from debris. On soft or loose ground, consider using a base plate or mat to enhance stability.

4. Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspect wheel chocks for signs of wear and damage. Replace them if they show any cracks, deformations, or other defects. Proper maintenance ensures that the chocks remain effective and reliable.

At Big Rock Mountain, we understand that safety is a shared responsibility. By using wheel chocks, you contribute to a safer environment for everyone. Whether you're securing a parked vehicle on a steep incline or ensuring stability during maintenance work, wheel chocks are an indispensable tool in your safety arsenal. Remember, a small investment in wheel chocks can prevent major accidents and save lives.

Stay safe and secure with Big Rock Mountain's premium wheel chocks – because safety should never be compromised. Check out our extensive line of wheel chocks HERE.

Not seeing what you need? Give us a call at 1-888-661-0091 today!

As winter weather conditions in the eastern United States continue to worsen and intensify, businesses must prioritize proactive measures to address snow and ice hazards on their premises. Waiting until the peak of winter to implement safety solutions can be costly and dangerous. One of the most effective ways to combat these hazards is by installing the Yeti System, a comprehensive snow and ice removal solution offered by Big Rock.

Why the Yeti System?

The Yeti System is a turnkey solution designed to provide robust defense against the challenges posed by winter weather. It can be installed on both left and right discharge setups, making it versatile for various facility configurations. Whether your business operates on a new concrete pad or an existing asphalt surface, the Yeti System can be seamlessly integrated to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Key Benefits of the Yeti System:

• Quick Installation: The installation process requires about a week, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations. Planning ahead and installing the system before winter hits full force is crucial for optimal results.
• High Traffic Suitability: For businesses that see a high volume of traffic, such as those with 100 trucks a week or more, the Yeti System offers significant benefits. With 3 to 5 snowfalls expected throughout the season, the system ensures smooth and safe operations.
• Rapid ROI: The investment in the Yeti System can yield a quick return on investment (ROI) in less than 24 months, making it a financially sound decision for businesses.

Financial Flexibility

Understanding the financial implications of such investments, Big Rock offers financing options to make the Yeti System more accessible. Favorable financing terms help businesses manage costs while enhancing their safety measures. This financial flexibility allows companies to invest in their infrastructure without straining their budgets.

Comprehensive Coverage

Big Rock provides its services across the greater eastern United States and all of Canada, ensuring that businesses in these regions can benefit from their expertise and solutions. By choosing the Yeti System, companies can significantly mitigate the risks associated with winter weather, ensuring the safety of their operations and protecting their reputation from the potential fallout of snow and ice-related incidents.

Why Act Now?

The importance of taking proactive steps cannot be overstated. As winter weather becomes more severe, the potential for accidents and liabilities increases. By installing the Yeti System before winter peaks, businesses can prevent disruptions, safeguard their workforce and clients, and maintain a safe and efficient environment.

Contact Big Rock Mountain today at 1-888-661-0091 to learn more about how the Yeti System can prepare your business for the challenges of winter weather in the east. By investing in this state-of-the-art snow removal solution, you can ensure that your operations remain smooth and safe, regardless of what winter throws your way.

The Yeti Snow Removal System by Big Rock offers a proactive and effective solution to winter weather challenges. With quick installation, financial flexibility, and comprehensive coverage, it is the ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance safety and operational efficiency during the harsh winter months. Don’t wait until the snow falls – take action now and equip your business with the Yeti System to tackle winter head-on.

Big Rock Mountain knows that in the demanding world of construction and industrial work, the durability and reliability of tools and equipment are paramount. One essential piece of equipment that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role is the air hose. Among the various options available on the market, Leaf Hydraulics' 300 PSI Contractor Air Hose stands out for its exceptional durability and performance, making it a preferred choice for professionals.

Built to Withstand Tough Conditions

The Leaf Hydraulics 300 PSI Contractor Air Hose is designed to endure the harsh conditions often encountered on job sites. This air hose is constructed with high-quality materials that provide resilience against wear and tear. The outer layer is made from a blend of abrasion-resistant rubber, ensuring it can withstand frequent dragging over rough surfaces, exposure to chemicals, and harsh weather conditions. This rugged construction means that the hose remains functional and intact even after prolonged use in challenging environments.

Flexibility and Ease of Use

Durability does not come at the expense of flexibility. One of the standout features of the Leaf Hydraulics air hose is its ability to maintain flexibility even in extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°F to 190°F. This characteristic is crucial for contractors who work in varying climates, as a stiff hose can be difficult to maneuver and may even crack under severe conditions. The hose’s pliability ensures that it can be easily routed through tight spaces and around obstacles, improving efficiency and reducing fatigue for users.

High-Pressure Performance

The 300 PSI rating of the Leaf Hydraulics air hose ensures that it can handle high-pressure air tools and equipment without bursting or leaking. This high-pressure capability is particularly important for contractors who rely on pneumatic tools for tasks such as nailing, stapling, painting, and sanding. The air hose’s ability to maintain a consistent pressure output ensures that tools operate at their optimal performance levels, which directly impacts the quality of the work being performed.

Longevity and Cost-Effectiveness

Investing in durable equipment often results in long-term cost savings, and the Leaf Hydraulics 300 PSI Contractor Air Hose is no exception. Its robust construction translates to a longer lifespan compared to standard air hoses, reducing the frequency of replacements. This longevity is a significant advantage for contractors looking to minimize downtime and operational costs. By choosing an air hose that can withstand the rigors of daily use, professionals can focus more on their work and less on equipment maintenance.

Customizable Lengths

Leaf Hydraulics sells this air hose by the foot, providing the flexibility to purchase the exact length needed for specific applications. This customization reduces waste and ensures that contractors have the right amount of hose for their projects, further enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Leaf Hydraulics 300 PSI Contractor Air Hose is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and durability. Its robust construction, high-pressure capacity, and flexibility in extreme temperatures make it an ideal choice for professionals in the construction and industrial sectors. By offering this hose by the foot, Leaf Hydraulics provides a tailored solution that meets the specific needs of its customers, ensuring that they have a reliable and efficient tool at their disposal.

For contractors and professionals seeking a durable, high-performance air hose that can withstand the demands of their work environment, the Leaf Hydraulics 300 PSI Contractor Air Hose is a proven and trusted option. Investing in this high-quality air hose means investing in a tool that will deliver consistent performance and durability, job after job.

Big Rock Mountain is your one-stop shop for Leaf Hydraulics quality. Click here to check out the line of Leaf Hydraulics products. If you're not finding what you're looking for, give us a call at 1-888-661-0091 M-F 7a-6p ET. We can source just about anything!

In an era where security is paramount, Big Rock Mountain's design team Big Rock Technologies has emerged as a beacon of innovation, providing high-end surveillance systems that redefine safety and compliance standards. Specializing in advanced intrusion detection and safety compliance solutions, Big Rock Technologies is revolutionizing the landscape of security infrastructure.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Big Rock Technologies leverages state-of-the-art technology to develop surveillance systems that not only detect threats but also ensure adherence to stringent safety regulations. Through meticulous research and development, the company has crafted a suite of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern enterprises.

At the heart of Big Rock Technologies's offerings is its advanced intrusion detection system. Designed to safeguard premises against unauthorized access and potential threats, this system employs cutting-edge sensors and AI algorithms to provide real-time monitoring and proactive threat mitigation. Whether it's a breach attempt or suspicious activity, the intrusion detection system acts as a vigilant guardian, alerting security personnel and enabling swift response measures.

Moreover, Big Rock Technologies goes beyond conventional security measures by integrating safety compliance features into its surveillance systems. Recognizing the importance of regulatory adherence in high-risk environments, the company ensures that its solutions facilitate seamless compliance with industry standards and guidelines. From video analytics that track adherence to safety protocols to comprehensive audit trails for regulatory reporting, Big Rock Technologies's surveillance systems empower organizations to maintain a secure and compliant operational environment.

One of the key strengths of Big Rock Technologies lies in its holistic approach to security. By combining advanced surveillance technology with expert consulting services, the company offers comprehensive security solutions tailored to each client's unique requirements. Whether it's a small-scale facility or a sprawling industrial complex, Big Rock Technologies works closely with clients to assess their security needs, design customized solutions, and implement robust surveillance infrastructure.

In addition to its commitment to technological excellence, Big Rock Technologies prioritizes reliability and scalability in its surveillance systems. Built to withstand the rigors of demanding environments, these systems are engineered for long-term performance and seamless scalability, ensuring that they can adapt to evolving security challenges and organizational needs.

As businesses worldwide grapple with increasingly sophisticated security threats and regulatory pressures, the role of advanced surveillance systems in safeguarding assets and ensuring compliance has never been more critical. Big Rock Technologies stands at the forefront of this paradigm shift, empowering organizations to fortify their defenses and elevate their security posture with innovative solutions that redefine the boundaries of safety and compliance.

Contact us at 1-888-661-0091 or sales@bigrockTechnologies.com to lean more about Big Rock Technologies' capabilities.

Introducing the Little Klondike Core Box System by Big Rock Mountain 

Introduction: Diamond drill core remains indispensable in mining, providing invaluable insights and opportunities for discovery. However, conventional core handling methods often pose safety risks and hinder efficiency. Through the integration of sustainable practices and optimized workflows, mining enterprises can extract maximum value from core samples while fostering a safer workplace environment.

Addressing Occupational Safety Concerns: Safety is paramount in mining operations. Core handling carries inherent risks, from physical strain to exposure to hazardous materials. Our innovative solutions, including ribbed channels for stability, impact-tested materials with rounded edges to mitigate injuries, and ergonomic handles for ease of use, effectively tackle these safety challenges head-on.

Enhanced Workflow Efficiency with the CoreSafe Little Klondike: Efficiency is the cornerstone of successful mining operations. Our flat-bottom trays, compatible with roller conveyors in multiple orientations, revolutionize core handling. The slide-and-stack feature ensures stability and simplifies sample management, optimizing workflow efficiency.

Commitment to Sustainability: In an era of heightened environmental awareness, sustainability is non-negotiable. Our recyclable trays and secure, reusable lids are crafted with a focus on reducing ecological footprint. By embracing sustainable materials and practices, mining companies can contribute to a greener future while maximizing core sample value.

Conclusion: Diamond drill core represents a pivotal asset for mining advancement. By prioritizing safety, efficiency, and sustainability in core handling, companies can unlock its full potential while fostering a safer, eco-conscious workplace. Incorporating innovative features like ribbed channels and slide-and-stack capability streamlines workflows, enhancing operational effectiveness. With the Little Klondike, a Canadian-made product engineered to endure diverse environmental conditions, mining enterprises can ensure the long-term safety and security of their core samples, paving the way for a sustainable future in the industry.

Check out more details and pricing on the Little Klondike CoreSafe Core Boxes here.

Many of you may not be aware, but in my spare time I am President of my child's PTA. Now you're wondering what that has to do with FootGuardian for Pallet Jacks, now available here at Big Rock Mountain.

Super question. Here's the answer.

The PTA ordered a number of outdoor picnic tables so students could enjoy lunch outdoors during the warmer months. When they arrived, the transport company lowered the pallets carefully with liftgate, pallet jack ready pull off.

Smooth sailing so far.

Now we get to the side entrance of the school. Although apropos for a school setting, the transport operator was about to an unwelcomed physics lesson. As he attempted to bring the pallet over the transition threshold of the school doorway, the level of resistance was just enough for him to yank a little too hard and pull those pallet jack wheels right over the top of his foot. Ouch. I'm not saying that his foot looked like Barf's paw when Lonestar dropped the statue of Yogurt while trying to use the Schwartz during Mel Brooks' Spaceballs, but I'm sure it felt like it.

Perhaps this would have been prevented with some steel-toe boots. But wouldn't it be a better idea to make sure that the pallet jack being used isn't dependent on operator footwear? We think so, too.

That's where FootGuardian for Pallet Jacks comes into play. Such a beautiful, simple concept... saving operators' little toes, and saving companies left and right from unnecessary workers' comp claims. It's really a no-brainer.  The best part? It's most likely the only one you'll ever need to buy for the pallet jack. When the pallet jack's usable life is over, simply transfer the FootGuardian for Pallet Jacks over to your new pallet jack. See? Safety is simple and sweet.

Click here to check out the FootGuardian for Pallet Jacks from Big Rock Mountain.

I really can't say enough great things about these Ladder Guards from Belt Conveyor Guarding. The functionality and ease-of-use of these products simply makes the work environment so much safer. 

In 1998, I was working as an engineer for a large food and beverage conglomerate that often utilized temporary staffing and flexible production lines. Quite often entire walls would be shifted, and platform heights would be adjusted to accommodate each shift. While it was an efficient use of a production plant, it also introduced increased safety challenges, especially with ladder access. Instead of incorporating a solution such as Ladder Guards, we elected to install sliding lock ladders, which were extremely expensive. They also posed safety risks, as they were often heavy, and the release systems' performance were often inconsistent.

Ladder Guards would have saved us so much time and money, and increased safety at the same time. Simply give access to those who need it when they need it with a beautifully-engineered, versatile safety tool. You just lift and clamp over the top of a stair rung, and then add optional security by sliding the lock bar through the guard over a rung while adding a padlock or comparable security device.

Keep your solutions simple. Big Rock Mountain is here to help.

Call us with any questions at +1-888-661-0091, or email sales@bigrockmoutain.com.

We now ship outside of North America! Contact us via phone or email to get a shipping quote today! 

A little effort goes a long way, and that's just as true for bearings inspection and maintenance as it is for anything else worth doing. Here are a couple of notes to keep in mind when you're reviewing the wear on your bearings, as well as simple storage reminders.

The following content has been selected from Big Rock Mountain partner SKF:

Rolling bearing defect frequency analysis

Every bearing generates a low frequency signal. Every time a bearing defect is over-rolled, a high frequency signal is generated, which causes a peak in the amplitude of the signal. The rate of these peaks is a function of speed as well as the position of the defect on the bearing and the internal geometry of the bearing.

To monitor the condition of a bearing, a technique called enveloped acceleration or enveloping is used. Enveloping isolates the high frequency signal generated by the defect from other naturally occurring rotational or structural frequencies in the machine. In cases where it is difficult or time consuming to gain access to the bearings for inspection, an Endoscope can be a valuable tool. An endoscope, available on Big Rock Mountain soon in the field, is a good tool. It should have a small diameter insertion tube, an LCD display and a picture recording function.

Storage

Storage time is the period that a bearing can remain in storage in order to avoid adverse effects on operational performance of the bearing. Bearings are coated with a high-quality preservative oil to protect them from corrosion. Long storage times can be attained by storing bearings in their original, unopened and undamaged, packaging. The storage time of bearings also depends on their storage environment conditions. To maintain the potential operating performance of a bearing, it is recommended that  a "first in, first out" inventory policy be developed.

Storage time for open bearings

Typical storage times for open (unsealed) and not lubricated bearings are listed in table 1:

table 1 - Storage time for open (unsealed) and not lubricated bearings

Storage time for capped bearings

Capped bearings (bearings with seals or shields) should be stored for a maximum of three years to avoid deterioration of their grease fill.

Additional storage-related factors

To avoid deterioration of your bearings while in storage, consider these factors:

• Store indoors, in a frost- and condensation-free environment, at a maximum ambient temperature of 40 °C (105 °F), avoiding air flow.
• Store in vibration-free conditions. Vibration can cause damage to raceways.
• Store horizontally, preferably, to avoid damage that could be caused by the bearing falling over.
• Do not open or damage the original packaging.

If you're unsure about whether or not your bearings merely require cleaning and relubrication, if they're misaligned or damaged and in need of replacement, you can always contact our team at sales@bigrockmountain.com at your convenience. 

Find the right bearings by clicking here.

Big Rock Mountain's line of lubricants and cleaning products to service bearings can be found here.