The History of Stop Blocks
A Game-Changing Safety Innovation
When we consider the array of safety products available these days, it is easy to overlook something as humble as the stop block, or wheel chock. However, nowadays, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an industrial setting where some form of stop block isn’t being used. From mining and construction to transportation and aviation, stop blocks are used as safety precautions across various industries.
With a history dating back to the early 20th century, the evolution of this seemingly simple but highly effective device tells a truly fascinating story of innovation.
The Why Behind the Invention: Safety First
The initial intention behind the wheel chock was simple. It was an additional preemptive measure to prevent unintentional movement of a vehicle should the parking brake fail to do its job. Although stopblocks quickly became commonplace within industrial settings, where they were used to secure heavy equipment and vehicles positioned on slopes or uneven surfaces, the primary motivation behind the invention of the stop block wasn’t to protect equipment but to prevent accidents that could potentially cause serious harm to people.
Today, you’ll find that the use of stop blocks as a safety mechanism has extended well beyond industrial environments, as they can be found everywhere, from parking lots to loading docks.
A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Modern Stop Blocks
Despite being fairly straightforward, the concept behind the stop block can’t be dubbed the brainchild of a single inventor. Over the years, contributions from several innovators have come together to form the stop block that we see in use today:
1957
Charles Richard Eckhart officially patented a stop block that was designed to prevent the forward motion of a wheel along a flat surface. Despite establishing the groundwork for the modern stop block, Eckhart’s design had its limitations. Firstly, the stop blocks were either made of metal which was prone to corrosion in challenging environments or wood which tended to warp or crack when stored in damp or crowded spaces. Moreover, size options were limited and weren’t appropriate for use on larger vehicles.
1990
Stephen Henry built on Eckhart’s concept of a stop block but specifically designed devices that were capable of handling large-scale trucks and equipment in the mining industry. Henry’s version of the stop block addressed the need for a lightweight, durable device that could effectively secure vehicles with larger wheels. Made out of polyethylene, Henry’s stop block was also designed so that it did not readily react with chemicals that are commonly found in the mining environment.
2009
Canadian engineer, Robert B Winsor went on to further develop the stop block restraint system, Winsor’s design focused on improving the safety and security of the stop block by enhancing their structural properties and resistance to corrosion. Winsor also wanted to address the challenges of securing vehicles to railcars during transportation. His version of the stop block had the additional feature of being able to be secured on the apertures on the grates adjacent to the tyres of vehicle when they were loaded onto the railcar deck.
Images Copyright: Google Patents
These innovations collectively contributed to the evolution of wheel chocks. Early stop blocks, typically made from wood or metal, were just simple wedges placed against a vehicle’s wheels to keep it stationary. Nowadays, you’ll find stop blocks made of a broader range of materials, including polyethylene, aluminium, steel alloy, and rubber – each with its own advantages. Moreover, modern stop blocks incorporate features that enable them to meet the demands of various applications.
Modern Stop Blocks
Over the years, stop blocks have undergone significant changes. The materials used in their construction have shifted from wood and metal to more advanced composites and durable plastics. This evolution has been driven by the need for lighter, more durable, and weather-resistant materials. Modern stop blocks often feature high-visibility colours, reflective strips, and ergonomic designs that enhance their functionality and ease of use.
Technological advancements have also enabled the development of specialised products tailored to different applications. For example, aviation-grade stop blocks are designed to handle the massive weight of an aircraft, while smaller, more portable versions, such as our 20-ton stop blocks, are commonly found on construction sites as they are ideal for a range of vehicles, including bakkies.
Furthermore, advancements in material science have led to the development of wheel chocks that can withstand extreme weather conditions and resist corrosion. This ensures long-term reliability, making them ideal for harsh environments like those common in the mining industry.
Stop blocks are a great example of a simple safety measure that has had an large impact. From Eckhart’s initial invention to the more sophisticated stop blocks currently available, these devices have played a key role in accident prevention across various industries.
As we look to the future, ongoing innovations in materials and design will undoubtedly continue to enhance the effectiveness and utility of these simple but highly effective devices, which if used correctly, can enhance safety in so many diverse industrial contexts.
Shop For Quality Stop Blocks at Venture Plastic Distributors
At Venture Plastic Distributors, we are proud to offer a comprehensive range of stop blocks designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. All of our wheel chocks are manufactured using high-quality 100% recyclable PP and LLDPE plastics that provide superior performance and longevity. Compared to steel and rubber stop blocks, these offer a lightweight solution that can easily move around. Moreover, you’ll find that most of our stop blocks come with handy features such as mounting brackets and recessed carrying handles making them more convenient for use.
