Loads that are not firmly anchored to the load-bed, shift during transport. This can make them unsafe, meaning;
- drivers and others can be hurt on the road, and
- drivers and other workers can be hurt during the unloading process.
Load Shift?
Every time a vehicle changes speed or direction, anything on or in it that is not secured will tend to move. Loads usually shift during braking or whilst cornering.
'The weight will hold it'
Both heavy and light loads can and do shift. Heavy loads require a lot of force to overcome static friction as long as the load remains in contact with the trailer bed. However if the load lifts off the bed, even momentarily, static friction is lost. Friction alone cannot be relied upon to hold a load in place.
How to keep it safe
All loads should be secured to the load-bed, and NOT to the weather protection structure. As a general rule, goods carried within curtain-sided vehicles should be secured as if they were being carried on a flat, open-bed vehicle.
If the loading configuration, or its securing, would cause concern when used on an open vehicle, then it should be considered equally unacceptable with a curtain sided vehicle.
Unless they are purposely designed according to EN 12642-XL, the curtains of curtain-sided vehilces MUST NOT be considered as part of any load restraint system. If the curtains and vehicle have been designed as a restraint system, the load capability should be clearly marked on the vehicle – if no mark can be seen, then it should be assumed that the curtain has NO load bearing function.
It can be done properly
Standards
The European Standard EN 12195 (1-4) 2010, “Load restraint assemblies on road vehicles” is accepted as giving a safe level of cargo securing for road transport operations.
Further information and guidance
The HSA will publish a number of Industry specific “Load Safety” Factsheets during the 3rd Quarter 2014, dealing with:
- Steel transport
- Raw timber transport
- Heavy plant & machinery
- Pre-cast concrete products
- Loads within Curtin-sided vehicles
The HSA website contains links to further information, including European Community “Best practice” and international industry guidelines
