When a vehicle crashes into a wall at 25mph, an item of
unsecured luggage weighing just 25kg will travel forward with a force equal to 3
tonnes so it makes sense to secure your load properly.
It is also a legal duty shared by both the driver and
the vehicle operator. The Road Traffic Act 1991 states that ‘vehicle users’ are
legally required to ensure that loads are secured safely on all journeys.
In addition, the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use)
Regulations 1986 require that ‘all parts and accessories and the weight
distribution, packaging and adjustment of their loads shall be such that no
danger is likely to be caused to any person in or on the vehicle or trailer on
the road.
Routine checks should include:
Lashing equipment for signs of damage
Nets, tarpaulins and sheets for signs of damage
Anchorage points, headboards and bulkheads for signs of corrosion or
cracks
In addition you should ensure:
All loads are secured properly
Smaller objects are stored away. A 200g screwdriver can hit a front-seat
occupant with a collision weight of 8kg in a 31mph crash
Just because tools are in boxes doesn’t make them safely tucked away
The weight and size of the load is within the limits of your vehicle,
trailer and restraint devices
The load weight is evenly distributed across the vehicle’s floor
The centre of gravity of the load is as low as possible by placing
heavier items at the bottom, lighter items at the top
Wherever possible, the load is placed in contact with the headboard /
bulkhead
The doors are locked and the lock mechanisms are in good conditions
I confirm I have read the factsheet 'Safe Driving for Work - Load Safety'.
All of the documents can be obtained from us in a word format, so that they can be personalised and edited to suit your company or business. This service is free of charge, on request or phone 01908 262662.
Webvans is a trading style of LVC Central Ltd. | Tel: 01908 262662
