Proper load securement is a simple precaution that trucking company owners often overlook in pursuing ever-quicker turnover times and efficient use of space. However, an improperly secured load can be far more damaging than the time or money slacking on safety can bring regarding loss of products, lawsuits, and customer satisfaction. Further, an improperly secured load can result in damage to vehicles, injury of personnel or bystanders, and the destruction of property.
Why Is Cargo Securement So Important?
In light of the numerous train derailments and trucking accidents throughout the US annually, it should be apparent that unsecured loads can pose a significant threat to companies and the public at large. Have you ever seen a semi-truck swaying when moving at high speeds or experienced a rock hauler flinging its unsecured load into the windshields of passersby? No matter what you are hauling, owners of trucks are responsible for any damage their trucks cause, whether intentional or not. Despite any signs posted that drivers are not responsible for damage and warnings to stay a certain distance, drivers and pedestrians are not required to adhere to such notifications. Furthermore, even if there is no damage to outside people or property, customers are relying on their products to arrive undamaged and improper securement can and most likely will lead to the unintended destruction of products.
Legal Requirements
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is a US government body that provides requirements and can issue fines if specific safety criteria are unmet. While we won’t dive into all the essentials, the most significant general law includes the following:
“A driver may not operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier may not require or permit a driver to use a commercial motor vehicle unless –
(1) The commercial motor vehicle’s cargo is properly distributed and adequately secured as specified in §§ 393.100 through 393.136 of this subchapter.
(2) The commercial motor vehicle’s tailgate, tailboard, doors, tarpaulins, spare tire, and other equipment used in its operation, and the means of fastening the commercial motor vehicle’s cargo, are secured; and
(3) The commercial motor vehicle’s cargo or any other object does not obscure the driver’s view ahead or to the right or left sides (except for drivers of self-steer dollies), interfere with the free movement of (their) arms or legs, prevent (their) free and ready access to accessories required for emergencies, or prevent the free and ready exit of any person from the commercial motor vehicle’s cab or driver’s compartment.”
What Are Some Basic Securement Practices?
There are several essential but straightforward practices that you can implement to secure loads better and ensure that everything gets to its destination safely.
- Inspect – Always inspect vehicles before sending them out onto the road. Inspections should include checking the binding straps for fraying, evenly spaced loads, and staying within certain weight limits.
- Cleanliness – Keep your vehicles clean and remove all debris inside and outside the trailer. Small fragments such as rocks or bits of plastic can be ejected at high speeds or rattle around inside, damaging products.
- Secure Your Truck – Keep heavy vehicles secure when loaded. Press down the parking brake or use parking chalks to ensure that idled trucks do not roll, even slightly. Securing the tires is especially important if parked on any incline or grade.
- Use the Properly Sized Hauling Vehicle – Always use the right-sized vehicle. While it may be tempting to use a smaller and more fuel-efficient vehicle for large loads, the wear and damage to the truck will often not be worth the benefit. Vice-versa, use smaller trucks when moving lower volumes to ensure a tight pack and lessen the chance of products shifting in transit.
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