Imagine how devastating it would be if the vehicle carrying heavy loads just break down on a busy highway- Yes, it would result in a major road accident losing a number of lives, creating a long traffic jam and a huge loss to the society -The reason being a small piece of untied metal. A single mistake can cause a frightening incident and that’s why it is compulsory to have information about laws on secure load. It involves certain industry rules and usage of items like tie-down straps or popularly known as ratchet straps which are the best means to secure the load on roof rack or bed of the truck.
However, it is necessary to choose the right type of ratchet straps like retractable ratchet straps or lashing straps. The selection of tie-down straps depends on quantity and weight of the load, what is its type, which vehicle is carrying it and other factors. Ratchet straps come in various forms that are best to secure small to large, short to long items on the mini as well as heavy vehicles like mini trucks or big containers. For better understanding, one must be aware of the load security and its laws.
What Load Securing Actually Means?
Load Security generally means that the load vehicle is carrying does not move on acceleration, does not change its position on turning points, packages not rubbing against each other and the items are not hanging outside the vehicle. In simple terms, it should be fixed and strongly tied with straps meeting the industry safety rules.
Are there Certain Laws on Load Security?
Each country has its own load security laws and they differ based on the geographical conditions, weight, vehicles used for transportation, road conditions, and driving rules. Like instructions for carrying a windmill will be completely different than carrying cars in a heavy commercial vehicle.
If the load security laws are not properly followed the driver may face jail or transport agency could be fine in dollars. Moreover, the company will degrade its reputation and lose potential clients. So, one should abide by the laws and properly secure the load.
Solutions for Carrying Load Safely
As suggested above, one of the best equipment for securing load are ratchet straps. They come in different lengths, dimensions, and strengths. Whether you are carrying 10 kg load on a motorcycle or 10 motorcycles in a heavy commercial vehicle, retractable ratchet straps are the best ones. It is necessary to have some flexibility while fastening a load, as tightly packed up rope will break, dislodging the load on road.
Proper instructions must be followed while loading and unloading items like
- Check the rating of the straps before tying them up
- Use a stronger strap than you actually need
- Learn how to tie up ratchet straps and properly lock and unlock them
- Ensure no part of the load is exceeding the vehicle length
- Make sure it is comfortable for the driver to look in the rear-view mirror
- And, the last check all the points are covered in your company’s secure load checklist
Proper handling of the load with ratchet straps ensures the product will be delivered safely without any accident and strengthen your relationship with your clients. So, before you drive always make double-check load and ensure it is secure.
