Why It's So Important To Secure A Load Properly

Thousands of different loads are transported across the UK every day, the vast majority of which arrive at their destination safely. Sadly, this isn’t always the case - and when loads come adrift, the consequences can be potentially deadly.

Importance of securing a load properly

We’ve all seen dash cam videos of cars rolling off trailers or pallets falling off the side of lorries, and it’s easy to think that accidents like these won’t happen to us. But if mistakes are made during the loading process - or the wrong equipment is chosen for the job - an accident is a very real possibility.

Not only can loads be irreparably damaged in these circumstances, other road users can be hurt or even killed, either by the load itself or by crashing after having swerved to avoid it. Let’s find out more about the consequences of failing to secure a load properly - and who’s responsible for doing it.

Who is responsible for strapping a load?

According to the DVSA’s own code of practice for securing loads to goods vehicles, the vehicle operator, driver and consignor (the company loading the vehicle) all bear a degree of responsibility for the safety and security of the load.

The guide states that:

• “Everyone involved in loading a vehicle or managing a transport operation is responsible for making sure the load is:
• safely loaded
• secure during transport
• safely unloaded”
• “Operators, drivers and companies sending goods (‘consignors’) must:
• secure all loads carried on vehicles
• make sure loads are transported, loaded and unloaded safely.”

The consequences of failing to secure a load correctly stretch beyond the risk of damage and injury. Drivers can face unlimited fines, points on their license and potentially a driving ban for failing to carefully check their load. So, even if you’re not directly involved in the loading of the vehicle, you still need to do your due diligence.

How to secure a load properly?

It’s important to use the correct ratchet straps, too. Using the wrong equipment can be just as dangerous as using the right equipment improperly; care must be taken to ensure that each strap is in good condition and is rated to transport the load.

Taut Strap is the home of heavy duty, light duty and endless ratchet straps. Shop online today to find the right solution for your requirements.