New Updates to the Code of Practice – Securing Loads on HGVs and Goods Vehicles.

The Code of Practice for Safety of Loads on Vehicles has recently been updated to improve load security and ensure compliance across the transport sector. These changes address operator responsibilities, load securing methods, and the safe carriage of various load types. Key updates have been made for various vehicle types, including flatbeds, low loaders, box-sided vehicles, bulk tippers, and vans.

Load security rules now apply to all goods vehicles, including vans—not just trucks!

1. Safe Loading and Load Securing

Ensuring that all loads are securely fastened is a critical responsibility for all vehicle operators, regardless of the type of vehicle, size or type of load, or the length of the journey. Secure loads are essential for the safety of everyone involved in the transportation process—this includes loaders, unloaders, drivers, and other road users.

Why It Matters:

Unsecured loads pose significant risks, including:

? Impacting the handling of the vehicle

? Increasing braking distance

? Heightening the risk of rollovers

In addition, items falling from a vehicle during transit can cause serious incidents, such as:

? Hitting other vehicles or pedestrians

? Creating an obstruction that forces other drivers to swerve or brake suddenly

? Leading to lane or full road closures

It’s essential for operators, drivers, and consignors to follow proper load securing practices as outlined in various sections of the official guidelines, including risk assessments, operator responsibilities, driver responsibilities, and the legal framework surrounding load securing.

Stay safe and ensure every load is secure!

2. Load Securing: The Basics

A new section explains the importance of friction in securing loads.

When preparing to load a vehicle, it’s essential to thoroughly check the following:

? Load platform

? Bodywork

? Anchorage points

? Twist locks (if fitted)

Ensure that these components are suitable for the load and in good condition. Also, confirm that the load does not exceed the vehicle’s maximum axle and gross weight limits.

If part of the load will be removed during transit, consider how it will impact:

? Gross weight

? Individual axle weights

? The securing and stability of the load

Removing part of the load may reduce the vehicle’s total weight but can cause an imbalance in weight distribution, potentially overloading individual axles.

3. Managing Unstable Loads During Transit

If you become aware that part of your load has shifted but is still on the vehicle, it’s crucial to take immediate action:

? Slow down and avoid heavy braking and sharp steering.

? Look for a safe place to stop and secure the load, if it’s safe to do so.

? You must not continue your journey until the load is properly secured.

1. For open vehicles, it’s typically easier to identify if the load has shifted. In these cases, avoid walking under a load that’s leaning to one side. Never release any lashings over the load until you are sure it’s stable or have taken necessary precautions to prevent it from falling.
2. For closed vehicles, such as a curtainsider or box van, check the load from the rear doors. If you suspect the load might be leaning against the rear doors, check from the side as well.

Remember, safety must come first—always secure the load before continuing the journey.

4. Securing Loads on HGVs and Goods Vehicles

Proper load securing is essential for safe transportation. Here are key updates on securing methods:

? Attachment Points: Ensure they are strong enough to withstand expected loads. Updated descriptions for side raves and anchorage points.

? Chains and Lashing Straps: Chains may be better suited for certain loads, but avoid combining chains and lashing straps in the same load.

? Headboards & Bulkheads: Load directly against the bulkhead where possible. Use additional securing methods if parts of the load exceed the height of the headboard.

? Vehicle-Mounted Equipment: New guidance for securing cranes, grab arms, or booms over a load.

? Lashing Straps: Clarified requirements for straps in usable condition and when to replace them. Guidance on when to use extra straps.

5. Transporting Specific Load Types

? Dangerous Goods: Updated advice for securing dangerous goods when not in a closed body vehicle. Added responsibilities for Dangerous Goods Safety Advisers (DGSAs) and Radiation Protection Advisers (RPAs). Gas cylinders must not be carried in the passenger footwell.

? Abnormal Loads: Emphasis on risks of detachment and the use of friction mats or high-friction floors.

? Bulk Bags: Added another method for securing bulk bags.

? Pallets: Clarified requirements for stacking and securing palletised loads. Guidance for securing manual handling equipment on the load bed.

? Vehicles: Instructions for securing motorcycles and scooters during transport.

For detailed guidance on securing loads for each vehicle type, please visit the official site here.

Stay compliant and safe on the road with these essential updates.

For practical load security training, reach out to us today!

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Wishing you a Merry Christmas and joyful holiday season! ??