In this training we will review:

• What is cargo/load securement?
• What are the components of a load securement system?
• How to develop a load securement plan,
• How to safely secure and load cargo,
• Direct versus indirect tie downs,
• How to inspect your load securement system, and
• What are the best practices for securing common types of cargo?

Introduction

Cargo/Load Securement

In this section we will review:

• What is cargo securement,
• Why is cargo securement important,
• What are the applicable regulations, and
• Who is responsible for ensuring that cargo is secured

Cargo securement is the act of containing, immobilizing, or securing cargo or a load that is transported by a vehicle so it:

• cannot leak, spill, blow off, fall from, fall through, or otherwise become dislodged from the vehicle, or
• Shift within or on the vehicle resulting in adverse effects to the vehicle’s overall
  stability or maneuverability.

As per the Commercial Vehicle Safety Regulation (AR121/2009).

Cargo securement is a vital component to the safe and efficient operation of vehicles and equipment. Failure to secure your loads can result in many undesirable outcomes:

• Increased insurance premiums,
• Damage to vehicles or other property,
• Work and productivity delays,
• Damaged cargo,
• Lawsuits and citations,
• Serious injuries,
• Fatalities

Both the driver and carrier have responsibilities in regards to cargo securement:

• Drivers must not operate any vehicle if the load isn’t first properly secured
• Carriers, as far as reasonably possible, must not allow drivers to drive vehicles with loads that aren’t properly secured and must also ensure that drivers are adequately trained on how to secure cargo

Regardless of who loads a vehicle the driver is responsible for ensuring that the cargo is secured. Failure to secure a load may result in a ticket for the driver as well as hits on an organization’s carrier profile.  

National Safety Code (NSC) Standard 10 is the provincial guideline for safely securing loads to commercial vehicles in Alberta.

• This standard applies to all vehicles with a GVW exceeding 4500 kg

Drivers should also be aware of local regulations pertaining to:

• The registered GVW of their vehicle and its individual axle weights
• Cargo securement and cargo cover requirements

Securing components

Cargo/Load Securement

In this section we will review:

• What are components of a securement system?
• What is a tie down?
• What types of tie downs are there?

Includes vehicle structures, blocking or bracing equipment, and securing devices.

May include:

• Floors
• Walls
• Decks
• Anchor points
• Header boards
• Bulkheads

May include:

• Stakes
• posts
• chocks

May include:

• Wires/cables
• Chain
• Webbing
• Tie straps
• Winches
• Rope
• Steel strapping
• Clamps
• D-rings
• Ratchet straps
• Friction mats

A tie down is a device or combination of devices that is attached to an anchor point on a vehicle and is used to attach cargo or restrain it to the vehicle.

• All tie down devices must be marked by the manufacturer with the device’s working load limit (WLL).

Methods of Restraint

Cargo/Load Securement

Before you can secure your load you must know what methods of restraint your vehicle is capable of.

In this section we will review:

• Fully contained cargo
• Immobilized cargo
• General securement guidelines

Cargo must be fully contained in a vehicle with the adequate strength to secure the load.

Cargo must be restrained from horizontal movement.

Cargo must be secured by tie downs, blocking, or bracing.

When securing your load, regardless of the method, the cargo must be protected from shifting, tipping, leaking blowing off, falling, or otherwise becoming dislodged from the vehicle.

Before Implementation

Cargo/Load Securement

In this section we will review:

• Pre securement inspection
• Loading cargo
• Securement structures and components

Complete a circle check of the load, securing components, area, and vehicle

When loading cargo onto the vehicle make sure you evaluate:

• The distribution of the weight and height of the load
  • If a load is too high or off centre it may result in tipping or uneven wear and tear
  • If you are unsure of how to distribute the load – ask someone for assistance

Remember: Regardless of who loads the vehicle, the driver is always responsible for securing the cargo. 

Anchor Points:

• Are areas on a vehicle or trailer in which tie downs can be attached

Rub Rails:

• Are to be used to protect securement devices, not as anchor points.