Table of Contents
- 1 Why is it important for you to know of and use proper cargo securement techniques Anytime you transport cargo?
- 2 How well must the securement system work?
- 3 What is the minimum amount of force for forward movement?
- 4 Why are there new cargo securement requirements in the US?
- 5 When did FMCSA start requiring cargo securement?
Why is it important for you to know of and use proper cargo securement techniques Anytime you transport cargo?
When cargo shifts in transit, the vehicle’s center of gravity changes, potentially causing the driver to lose control of the truck. If the truck overturns, it can cause serious injury to the driver and to anyone who happens to be nearby.
Why is cargo securement important?
Secure all vehicle load securement devices (chains, straps, and tarps) and cargo. Ensure drivers have clear visibility on all sides of the vehicle. Ensure drivers have free movement of their arms and legs. Provide driver access to emergency equipment and easy vehicle exit.
What does cargo securement mean?
Cargo Securement Definition of Terms The summation of the working load limits or restraining capacity of all devices used to secure an article of cargo on a vehicle. Anchor point. Part of the structure, fitting, or attachment on a vehicle or article of cargo to which a tie-down is attached.
How well must the securement system work?
Each cargo securement system must be able to withstand a minimum amount of force in each direction. Rearward Force = 50% of cargo weight when accelerating, shifting gears while climbing a hill, or braking in reverse. Sideways Force = 50% of cargo weight when turning, changing lanes, or braking while turning.
How many tie-downs are required with cargo?
4 tie down
Ideally minimum 4 tie down straps are required to secure the cargo load. There are different materials that can be selected for the straps like nylon rope, Ratchet straps, and cam buckle straps.
How soon after starting a trip must cargo securement be checked?
How soon after starting a trip must cargo securement be checked? Cargo should be inspected before beginning a trip, within the first 50 miles of the trip, and every three hours or 150 miles traveled thereafter.
What is the minimum amount of force for forward movement?
Each cargo securement system must be able to withstand a minimum amount of force in each direction. Forward Force = 80% of cargo weight when braking while driving straight ahead. Rearward Force = 50% of cargo weight when accelerating, shifting gears while climbing a hill, or braking in reverse.
How often do you check load securement?
The regulations require certain drivers to do en-route inspections to check cargo securement and their tires. Cargo securement inspections are required within the first 50 miles after loading, and then every 3 hours, 150 miles or at a duty change, whichever comes first.
What is the minimum number of tie downs needed to secure a 10 foot cargo?
two
When an article of cargo is not blocked or positioned to prevent movement in the forward direction, and the item is longer than 10 ft in length, then it must be secured by two tiedowns for the first 10 ft of length, and one additional tiedown for every 10 ft of length, or fraction thereof, beyond the first 10 ft.
Why are there new cargo securement requirements in the US?
The intent of the new requirements is to reduce the number of accidents caused by cargo shifting on or within, or falling from, commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce, and to harmonize to the greatest extent practicable U.S., Canadian, and Mexican cargo securement regulations.
When to use edge protection for cargo securement?
All tiedowns and other components of a cargo securement system used to secure loads on a trailer equipped with rub rails must be located inboard of the rub rails whenever practicable. Also, edge protection must be used whenever a tiedown would be subject to abrasion or cutting at the point where it touches an article of cargo.
How much lateral acceleration is required for cargo securement?
Lightly loaded vehicles, or heavily loaded vehicles with a lower center of gravity, may withstand lateral acceleration forces greater than 0.5 g. Generally, motor carriers are not required to conduct testing of cargo securement systems to determine compliance with the performance requirements.
When did FMCSA start requiring cargo securement?
Motor carriers operating in interstate commerce must comply with the new requirements beginning January 1, 2004.