Safety of Loads on Vehicles: Updated Guidance

Safety of Loads on Vehicles: Updated Guidance December 2024

Ensuring the safety of loads on vehicles is a critical part of transport operations. Proper loading, securing, and transport practices reduce the risk of accidents, protect personnel, and prevent damage to equipment. This Update outlines best practices for safely transporting plant equipment and heavy or light loads, focusing on methods to reduce hazards and maintain compliance with legal and operational standards and proper Plant Loader Securer Training..

Transporting Plant Equipment

Plant equipment is generally transported on dedicated trailers designed to facilitate easy loading and securement. Low-loader trailers are particularly well-suited for this purpose as they help maintain a low centre of gravity, reducing the risk of rollovers or loss of control during transit.

Key Practices for Transporting Plant on Low-Loader Trailers

1. Positioning for Stability:
   • When transporting plant equipment on a low-loader, position the equipment on the trailer’s step. This placement prevents forward movement during transit and enhances stability.
2. Supporting the Load Bed:
   • Ensure that the load bed adequately supports the wheels or tracks of the plant equipment. If the load bed does not provide sufficient support:
     • Support the body of the equipment directly, or
     • Use timbers or similar materials to create a stable resting surface for the equipment.
3. Securing Heavy Plant:
   • Heavy plant includes vehicles not specifically designed for road use, such as agricultural tractors, construction vehicles, or other large equipment. These items cannot be safely or legally transported on:
     • A light goods vehicle (gross weight of 3,500 kg or less)
     • A light trailer (maximum permitted weight of 3,500 kg)
   • Heavy plant must be secured using a combination of:
     • Physical barriers to the front: Examples include the bulkhead or step on a low-loader or step trailer.
     • Physical barriers to the rear: Examples include chocks or solid timbers, which should also be secured to the load bed.
     • Lashings: Use appropriate lashings to prevent movement.

Lashing Requirements for Heavy Plant

• Use a minimum of four direct lashings. Each lashing should have one end secured to the carrying trailer and the other end attached to the plant.
• Apply frictional (tie-down) lashing to boom arms, buckets, or any additional equipment attached to the plant.
• Select a suitable securing method based on the type of plant being transported, taking into account whether it is wheeled and the type of wheels it has.

Loading Plant Vehicles with Boom Arms

• Load vehicles with boom arms, such as diggers or excavators, so the arm faces away from the direction of travel. This minimises the risk of damage from bridge strikes and ensures safer transit.

Example Configuration for Boom Arm Orientation

• The boom arm on the plant vehicle should face away from the larger arrow indicating the direction of travel. Proper orientation mitigates risks associated with overhead obstructions.

Securing Light Plant

Light plant equipment, such as mini-excavators, can be carried on trailers. However, specific securing methods are necessary to ensure safety during transport.

Requirements for Securing Light Plant

• Use a combination of:
  • Positive fit: Ensure the equipment is securely positioned on the trailer to prevent any lateral or forward movement.
  • Frictional lashing: Apply a minimum of three straps or chains, with at least one dedicated to securing any hydraulically operated boom arm.
• Lash down loose items, such as spare buckets, separately to avoid potential hazards caused by unsecured items shifting or falling during transit.

General Guidelines for Load Safety

Pre-Transport Inspections

• Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle and trailer to ensure they are in good condition and suitable for the load.
• Verify the weight and dimensions of the load to confirm compliance with the vehicle’s capacity and legal restrictions.
• Check the condition of securing equipment, such as straps, chains, and tensioners, to ensure they are free from damage and capable of withstanding the required forces.

Loading Procedures

1. Distribute Weight Evenly:
   • Position the load to maintain a balanced weight distribution across the trailer. This helps prevent instability and minimises stress on the vehicle.
2. Secure the Load:
   • Use appropriate securing equipment and techniques based on the type and weight of the load.
   • Ensure all securing equipment is tightened adequately, but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the load or securing devices.
3. Double-Check Securing:
   • Perform a final check to confirm that all lashings and barriers are secure before starting the journey.

During Transit

• Periodically inspect the load and securing equipment during the journey, especially after traveling over rough terrain or making sudden stops. Retighten or adjust securing devices as needed.
• Drive cautiously, avoiding sudden movements or sharp turns that could destabilise the load.

Post-Transport Procedures

• Upon reaching the destination, inspect the load and securing equipment for any signs of wear, damage, or movement that occurred during transit.
• Unload the equipment safely, following manufacturer guidelines and using appropriate tools or assistance to avoid accidents.

Legal and Safety Compliance

Weight Limits

• Adhere to all legal weight limits for vehicles, trailers, and roads to avoid fines and reduce risks associated with overloading.
• Ensure the load does not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or the permissible axle weights.

Securing Standards

• Follow industry standards and guidelines for securing loads, such as those outlined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or equivalent regulatory bodies in your region.

Training and Competency

• Ensure all personnel involved in loading, securing, and transporting loads are trained and competent in their roles, attending the Plant Loader Securer Training will guide you through the correct procedures. Provide regular updates and refresher Loader Securer Training on best practices and safety standards.

Additional Considerations

Environmental Factors

• Take into account weather conditions that could affect load safety, such as high winds, rain, or snow. Use weatherproof coverings if necessary to protect the load and maintain visibility of securing points.

Special Loads

• For unusual or oversized loads, consult with experts and regulatory authorities to determine specific requirements for securing and transporting the load safely.

Emergency Procedures

• Have a plan in place for responding to emergencies, such as load shifts or equipment failure, to minimise risks to personnel and the public.

By adhering to these updated guidelines, operators can ensure the safe and efficient transport of plant equipment and other loads, reducing risks and maintaining compliance with legal and operational standards.

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency – Safety of Loads On Vehicles