LOAD SAFETY POLICY
During an average year there are around 2,000 prohibitions issued for unsafe loads. The maximum fine is £5,000. So, as well as the obvious safety implications, it pays to make sure you’ve got it right – An unsafe loading/unloading offence carries 3 penalty points and a licence endorsement for you. The court may also give you an unlimited fine
As with all RJC Lowloaders Policy’s load safety is critical in the safe and efficient running of the operation. It’s vital to make sure you secure the load on your vehicle correctly as not to endanger other road users, yourself, not to cause damage to the load. Most shed loads are preventable: make sure you know how to handle your vehicle correctly and safely, and that the load is properly secured.
Before leaving the yard it is your responsibility to make sure that you have the correct vehicle and trailer for the load and that you have the right and serviceable securing equipment. If it is faulty get it replaced! If you are the driver but did not witness the vehicle being loaded / unloaded then you should check that the load is in a safe condition before you commence / continue your journey
Different loads will need to be positioned and secured in different ways. As a general rule, the weight of the load should be distributed evenly over the axles to increase stability of load, with the centre of gravity of the load kept as low as possible.
You’ll need to think about
carry)
axle weights so you can make sure your vehicle isn’t being overloaded).
If you’re new to driving a particular type of vehicle, ask the Office for information and training to help you operate it safely.
Make sure you use a suitable device to secure the load on your vehicle and that you attach it to the correct anchoring points
The load restraint system must be strong enough to withstand a force of
these weights.
Because of the forces acting on a large goods vehicle, loads are most likely to become unstable when you’re driving
You’ll need to be particularly careful to avoid driving too fast and sudden steering, acceleration and braking in these situations
Check the load and securing devices periodically to make sure nothing has moved or become loose. The load on your vehicle can shift during a journey. If you notice a change, stop as soon as you can safely and check the load. If you can, re-secure the load before you continue your journey. However, if you can’t fix the problem on your own you’ll need to ask for advice and/or help – don’t start driving again until the load is secure.
If you don’t think it is safe don’t take it and seek advice!
The Official DVSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles contains comprehensive advice on loading.
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