As previously mentioned, one of the aims of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) of Ireland’s programme for 2015, is to highlight the importance of safely securing loads on vehicles.
Work-related accidents happen every year while workers are loading or unloading, causing injuries, damaging goods and vehicles as well as causing downtime.
The Health and Safety Authority reports that from 2006-2011 there were 509 accidents involving loading, unloading and load-securing operations. The accidents involved workers, or members of the public, being struck by falling objects and, also, workers falling from vehicles or slipping/tripping in loading areas. Twelve of these accidents were fatal. The remainder resulted in injuries that led to lengthy absences from work.
Loading and unloading could be part of a fleet's job, so here is a short list of guidelines on how best to minimise risks of incidents connected with loading and unloading, and how to securely load and unload vehicles:
1. Always choose suitable vehicles for the load you are going to travel with, according to type and size;
2. The load has to be correctly positioned in such a way so as not to overload tyres or axles, or compromise vehicle stability in transit—especially during manoeuvres such as turning, accelerating, or braking.
3. Restraint equipment has to be available for the load-securing operation that is in sound condition and more than adequate for the type of load;
4. Loads must be restrained to a degree that prevents unacceptable movement during transit, even in the case of emergency braking;
5. Use appropriate driving techniques and safe driving styles; check loads and restraints, when convenient, during the journey.
