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Frequently asked questions about load restraint.
1. Are the loading performance standards designed for an accident?
The Performance Standards are designed to restrain a load during normal driving, emergency braking, and minor collisions. Crashes above this will result in forces above those in the Performance Standards.
2. Does a load restraint system need to hold the load if the truck rolls over?
No. Restraint systems are designed for forces experienced under normal driving conditions, like braking, bumps, and vibration. Forces on the vehicle involved in a roll over are far greater that what load restraint systems are required to withstand.
3. Can a 2.5t webbing strap restrain a 2.5t load?
Generally, no. The rated capacity of a strap indicates its maximum strength under straight-line pull, i.e. Direct Restraint, not its ability to restrain the same amount of weight. In Tie-Down restraint, blocking, friction, and pre-tension all effect how many webbing straps are required.
4. Do all loads have to comply with the 0.2g downwards force in the Performance Standards?
No. The additional 0.2 downwards force, on top of the force provided by gravity, only applies when you are relying on friction under the load as part of your tie-down or direct restraint system.
5. Is the weight of a load alone enough to restrain it?
No. To safely restrain any load placed on a heavy vehicle will require some form of load restraint, whether it’s blocking, containing, attaching, tie-down or direct restraint.
6. Does friction play a role in load restraint?
Yes. Friction is critical for the tie-down restraint method but is optional in direct restraint. More friction equals fewer physical restraints required.
7. Does my headboard need to be rated?
No. There is no legal requirement for a headboard to be rated, however it is strongly recommended.
8. Are gates strong enough to restrain a load?
Generally no. Unless gates have been certified by an engineer or manufacturer, the rating is completely unknown.
9. Can I use an automotive "D" shackle to restrain a load?
Not recommended. Check with the manufacturer as to its suitability.
10. Do all loads need a loading plan?
No. Loading plans are not mandatory but they are strongly recommended. They help ensure the load is restrained correctly and consistently and can save time and money.
11. Do all loads have to be covered?
No. However it is strongly recommended to cover your load if there is any risk it may be dislodged during transport. If any of the load comes out, it may place other road users at risk.
12. Are loads inside shipping containers considered restrained?
Not automatically. Just because goods are inside a container does not mean they are safely restrained. Goods moving around inside containers can cause the vehicle to become unstable and roll over or in some instances pierce through the body of the container.