Load securing training is a crucial course for anyone involved in the transport of goods, including drivers, vehicle loaders, and transport managers. The primary goal is to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to cargo by ensuring that loads are correctly and safely secured.
An insecure load is a significant road safety risk. It can shift during transit, causing the vehicle to become unstable, or even fall off the vehicle entirely, posing a severe danger to other road users. This is a highly regulated area, and those found to be non-compliant can face substantial fines and penalties.
Key Topics Covered in Load Securing Training
A typical load securing course, often lasting a half or full day, covers a mixture of theoretical and practical knowledge. The content is tailored to different types of loads and vehicles, but generally includes:
- Legal Responsibilities: Understanding the regulations and legal obligations for all parties—the consignor (the company sending the goods), the driver, and the operator—under laws like the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Road Traffic Act.
- Forces Acting on a Load: A key part of the training is understanding the physics involved. This includes the forces of inertia, acceleration, braking, and cornering, and how they can cause a load to shift.
- Load Assessment: Learning how to properly assess a load's characteristics, such as its weight, shape, centre of gravity, and how it will be transported.
- Vehicle Suitability: Matching the load to the correct vehicle. This includes understanding weight limits (GVW, axle weights) and ensuring the vehicle's load securing points and structure are suitable for the cargo.
- Securing Methods and Equipment: A detailed look at the various tools and techniques used to secure loads, including:
- Tie-down lashing: Using straps or chains to create a downward force on the load.
- Direct lashing: Using straps or chains to hold the load in place, preventing it from moving in a specific direction.
- Friction: The use of friction mats to increase grip between the load and the vehicle's bed.
- Vehicle structure: How to use the vehicle's body, headboard, and sideboards to contain the load.
- Equipment checks: How to perform pre-use inspections of securing equipment (e.g., webbing straps, chains, ratchets) to ensure they are in safe working condition.
- Practical Application: Hands-on training where participants get to practice securing different types of loads on a vehicle. This often includes scenarios with palletised goods, machinery, or awkward-shaped items.
Who Should Take This Training?
This training is essential for:
- HGV/LGV Drivers: To ensure they can correctly secure their own loads and perform checks before and during a journey.
- Warehouse and Loading Staff: To ensure they know how to load and secure goods safely before the vehicle leaves the premises.
- Transport Managers and Planners: To understand the legal requirements and ensure their drivers and operations are compliant.