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'.
Signed: _______________________________ Date: _____________
Name of Driver: ________________________ Vehicle Reg: _____________