Load Security Flashcards

Under EU load securing standards (EN 12195), what force must the load securing system withstand in the forward direction?

Answer: 80% of the cargo weight

EN 12195 requires that load securing must be able to withstand a force of 0.8g (80% of cargo weight) in the forward direction, 0.5g (50%) to the sides, and 0.5g (50%) to the rear. This accounts for forces during braking, turning, and acceleration.

What is 'friction securing' in load security?

Answer: Using the friction between the load and the vehicle floor to prevent movement, supplemented by tie-down lashings to increase the friction force

Friction securing relies on the friction between the load and the loading surface. Tie-down lashings increase the vertical force on the load, which increases friction. Anti-slip mats significantly increase the friction coefficient and reduce the number of lashings needed.

What is the primary responsibility of the driver regarding load security?

Answer: To check that the load is properly secured before departure and at regular intervals during the journey

While the loader has initial responsibility, the driver is legally responsible for ensuring the load is secure before departure and must check the load at appropriate intervals during the journey. The driver must refuse to drive if they believe the load is unsafe.

What is an 'anti-slip mat' and how does it improve load security?

Answer: A rubber or friction-enhancing mat placed between the load and the vehicle floor that increases the friction coefficient, reducing the number of lashings needed

Anti-slip mats (friction mats) increase the coefficient of friction between the load and the floor from around 0.2-0.3 (wood on steel) to 0.5-0.6 or higher. This significantly reduces the number of tie-down lashings required and improves overall load stability.

What should you do if you notice the load shifting during a journey?

Answer: Stop as soon as it is safe to do so, re-secure the load, and do not continue until the load is properly secured

A shifting load is extremely dangerous — it can cause the vehicle to become unstable, overturn, or shed its load onto the road. Stop safely as soon as possible, assess and re-secure the load. Never continue driving with an insecure load.

What is 'blocking' as a load securing method?

Answer: Using physical barriers such as headboards, sidewalls, stanchions, or chocks to prevent the load from moving

Blocking uses physical barriers or stops to prevent load movement. This includes the vehicle's headboard (preventing forward movement), sidewalls, stanchions, and individual chocks or wedges. Blocking is often combined with lashing for complete security.