Barron Equipment is proud to offer the Bluff Manufacturing Model EP — a mechanical edge of dock leveler built around the EZ-Pull handle system for fast and ergonomic dock-to-trailer bridging. The EZ-Pull design eliminates the lifting and difficult positioning associated with hook type dock levelers through simple smooth performance and easy positioning.
This manual edge of dock leveler is an ideal loading dock solution for warehouses and distribution centers where trailer heights stay within a consistent working range. Unlike pit-style dock levelers that require concrete excavation the Model EP mounts directly to the dock face — making it faster to install and far more economical. For facilities without the budget or structure for a recessed pit leveler the EZ-Pull offers a permanent alternative to portable dock boards or dock plates.
EZ-Pull Spring Assisted Lifting System for One Person Operation
The EZ-Pull handle design is what gives this Bluff Manufacturing leveler its name and sets it apart from competing mechanical edge of dock levelers. The spring lift system is engineered for one-man operation and helps eliminate back strain. The dock leveler is positioned by lifting and pulling the self-storing handle to the dock floor. The latch assembly activates the leveler lip forward to the floor of the trailer as the handle is lifted. When released the handle automatically returns to the stored position when the truck leaves.
This pull-bar operation is far more ergonomic than hook-type designs found on older mechanical levelers. The spring assisted mechanism reduces the physical demand on dock workers and eliminates the difficult positioning that can lead to repetitive strain injuries over time. Because the handle returns to its stored position after each use there is no loose equipment to misplace and the leveler stays ready for the next trailer.
Sizes Capacities and Working Range
The Model EP accommodates the most common loading dock configurations with a range of options to match your operation.
The 5 inch working range above and below dock height covers most standard trailer arrivals at the optimal dock height of 51 inches. Facilities that regularly receive trailers outside this range should consider a pit-style dock leveler with a wider operating range.
Optional features include a hydraulic lift assist that can be retrofitted on existing units or is available as an add-on, an integrated ramp for low dock applications, a longer lip for refrigerated trucks, an anchor kit, an approach plate, and steel faced bumpers.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20,000 to 30,000 lbs |
| Usable Widths | 66" 72" and 78" |
| Working Range | 5" above and 5" below dock height |
| Deck Thickness | 3/8" steel safety plate |
| Bumpers | Twin 12-3/4" x 10" bumpers included (16-3/4" from dock face) |
| Optimal Dock Height | 51" for conventional trailers |
| Hinge Construction | Heavy duty hinges designed for years of service |
| ANSI Compliance | Conforms to ANSI MH30.2 |
| Lead Time | 7 working days |
ANSI Standards and Loading Dock Safety Compliance
The Bluff Model EP conforms to ANSI MH30.2 standards for edge of dock leveling devices. ANSI MH30.1 establishes the broader performance and testing requirements for dock leveling devices used to bridge the gap between loading docks and transport vehicles. Together these standards define the safety verification benchmarks that facility managers rely on when specifying dock equipment. Safe loading dock operation also depends on proper installation, routine inspection, employee training, and adherence to manufacturer load capacity guidelines.
Installation and Structural Requirements
The Model EP requires welding to an existing steel dock face with channel iron reinforcement or a Bluff approach plate. Before ordering evaluate the structural condition of your dock face and confirm adequate support for the intended load capacity. Depending on site conditions the edge of dock leveler installation may also involve wedge anchors or concrete anchors for additional structural reinforcement. Facilities without an existing steel dock face may need structural preparation before mounting.
Barron Equipment provides full installation services including site assessment, structural preparation, and professional mounting. We also offer preventive maintenance programs and emergency repair services to keep your loading dock running smoothly.
Applications and Best Uses
The Bluff EZ-Pull Model EP is commonly selected for warehouses and distribution centers with consistent trailer heights, manufacturing facilities with moderate loading frequency, and shipping and receiving areas where pit-style levelers are impractical. Unlike portable dock plates or dock boards that must be manually placed and removed for each truck the Model EP is a permanent installation that deploys in seconds with the pull-bar handle. This loading dock leveler handles forklift and pallet jack traffic safely within its rated capacity and working range. For more information about choosing the right capacity for loading docks, check out our blog post - The Industrial Guide to Loading Dock Leveler Capacity Selection.
Why Buy From Barron Equipment
Barron Equipment has been selling, installing, and servicing loading dock equipment for over 43 years. We help you select the right capacity and width for your facility, coordinate delivery with Bluff's 7 working day manufacturing lead time, handle professional installation, and support the leveler throughout its service life with maintenance and repair programs.