Wheel Chocks for Mining Vehicles: Sizes, Standards & Placement
by admin-ha
Unintended vehicle movement is a serious hazard on mine sites. Wheel chocks are a simple, low-cost control that helps keep parked vehicles where they should be. This guide covers choosing, placing and maintaining mining wheel chocks.
Why Wheel Chocks Matter on Mine Sites
Mining vehicles are heavy and often park on uneven or sloping ground. Brakes can fail, be released by mistake or lose holding power over time. Chocks provide a physical backup that helps prevent rollaway incidents. For broader guidance on mine safety, see Safe Work Australia and your state regulator, such as Resources Safety & Health Queensland.
Choosing the Right Chock Size
Match the chock to the tyre
A chock that is too small can be overridden by the tyre. A common rule of thumb is a chock height of around a quarter of the tyre diameter, but always follow your site standard and the chock manufacturer’s guidance.
Consider vehicle weight and ground conditions
Heavier vehicles and softer or sloping ground need larger, more robust chocks.
Choose high-visibility designs
Brightly coloured chocks are easier to see, so they are less likely to be left behind when a vehicle moves off.
Correct Wheel Chock Placement
- Park on the most level ground available and apply the park brake first
- Place chocks snugly against the tyre tread, centred on the tyre
- On a slope, chock the downhill side of the wheels at minimum
- Follow your site procedure for which wheels and how many chocks to use
- Remove chocks only when the operator is ready and it is safe to move
Inspecting and Storing Chocks
Inspection
Check for cracks, splits, worn faces and damaged handles. Replace damaged chocks immediately.
Storage
Mounting brackets keep chocks on the vehicle and easy to reach, and stop them being lost or damaged.
OZ Chok Wheel Chocks
Our OZ Chok wheel chocks are highly visible, built for demanding use and available with matching mounting brackets. Bulk supply is available. Compare them in OZ Chok vs standard wheel chocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size wheel chock do I need for a mining vehicle?
Size depends on tyre diameter, vehicle weight and ground conditions. A common rule of thumb is a chock height of about a quarter of the tyre diameter, but follow your site standard.
Where should wheel chocks be placed?
Place chocks snugly against the tyre tread, centred on the tyre. On slopes, chock the downhill side at minimum and follow site procedure.
How often should wheel chocks be inspected?
Inspect chocks regularly, ideally at pre-start checks, and replace any that are cracked, split or worn.
Do you supply wheel chocks in bulk?
Yes. Mining Parts Australia supplies OZ Chok wheel chocks individually or in bulk, with matching brackets and Australia-wide delivery.
Talk to Mining Parts Australia
Send us a part number, photo or description and our team will source it for you. Browse the product list, explore our services or contact us on (07) 5535 2228. For the bigger picture, read our complete guide to mining parts in Australia.
Posted in Site Safety