| By :
Mark Etinger
Load securement is a fairly simple concept. Its expected by the general public for truck loads to be secured following the parameters that are standard for anyone transporting cargo for business. Fleet managers and their subsequent companies are required to monitor drivers and their load securement tactics, to ensure that proper protocol is being followed, for quite a few reasons. The bottom line is: failure to safely transport properly secured items can result in damage, injury, or worse, a fatality. How Important is Load Securement, Really? The answer is, very. As previously stated, not using proper truck ties downs and load binders can result in damage, injury, and death, of you or other drivers. Everyone has probably seen, at least once, a service truck, pick up, or a semi-truck with loose or poorly secured cargo. Its extremely perilous for other motorists when cargo falls off trucks and ends up the road, as they have to swerve around it. In addition to cargo securement being the safe way to go, it is necessary because customers expect it. Clientele has chosen to do business with you because they feel that you are capable of safely handling their cargo. The public also expects a company to protect it against the risk of becoming injured in a crash caused by shifted cargo. In addition, the fleet company needs you to follow proper cargo securement protocol to protect them from liability in the event of an accident as a result of fallen or shifted cargo. In addition to the monetary costs of improper load securement, there are other costs as well: The cost of a human life. The effect on customers if delivery is delayed or thwarted by an accident. The cost of vehicle loss for the fleet organization. The impact on the companys third-party insurance rates. It is important for a fleet company to proactively address these issues by facilitating the load securement process. Drivers should be properly trained on how to use winch straps, ratchet tie down straps, rachet straps, chains, and other truck tie downs to make their load safe to transport. The Basics of Cargo Securement A key component to maintaining a good corporate image to customers and the monitoring public is for vehicles to be properly maintained inside and out. Here are a few tips from the FMSCR regulation 392.9 that fleet owners and truck drivers should follow, as you can see inspect and examination is key: Evenly distribute and properly secure cargo using the proper truck tie downs. Check the load securement devices (chains, straps, and tarps) and cargo for potential to shift or come loose. Ensure drivers visibility is clear and unobstructed. Ensure drivers can freely and comfortably move their legs and arms in the cabin. Make the driver understands they have access to emergency equipment and instruct them of an easy vehicle exit. Further inspect the load and devices to secure the load prior to the driver starting the trip. Re-inspect the load within the first 50 miles and adjust cargo securement devices as needed. Re-examination must occur whenever a change-of-duty status occurs and when the vehicle has been on the road for more than three hours or driven 150 miles (whichever occurs first).
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