Kilkenny Roads Policing Unit stopped a tractor and trailer combination over the weekend for an unsecured load.
The driver was transporting a load of silage bales at the time when officers brought them to a halt.
Unsecured load of bales
In a post on social media, a spokesperson for Garda Síochána Kilkenny/Carlow, said:
“Kilkenny Roads Policing Unit stopped this tractor and trailer over the weekend. As can be seen, no attempt had been made to secure the load with straps.”
“The vehicle was grounded until strapping was applied. The consequences of these bales falling would have been serious for other road users/pedestrians. Think road safety,” the spokesperson added.
Transporting loads
Unsecured or inadequately secured loads can shift when a vehicle is in motion and may cause:
- Loss of control of a vehicle;
- Objects to fall on or hit people;
- Road obstruction or collision where a driver is required to swerve to avoid fallen items;
- Spillages that may cause vehicles to lose control;
- Failure to secure loads properly may also result in financial losses due to damaged goods and vehicles, lost working time, clean-up costs and legal costs.
Loads must be secured even if the vehicle is only travelling a short distance or at low speeds.
The authority stressed that load security is not just the sole responsibility of the vehicle driver. Employers, vehicle owners, drivers and loading and unloading staff all have a role to play in ensuring loads are secure.
It warned that a failure to secure loads properly may also result in financial losses due to damaged goods and vehicles, lost working time, clean up costs and legal costs.
Image credit: Garda Síochána Kilkenny/Carlow on Facebook
How to secure loads
The authority outlined that different loads will require different methods of securing.
These include:
- Fastening straps;
- Chains;
- Adjustable brackets;
- Sliding slatboards;
- Use of dunnage;
- Blocking;
- Bracing.
“However, what works for one type of load will not necessarily work for another type. The vehicle must always be appropriate to carry the load and have suitable attachment points for chains, straps and other load securing devices.”
“Whatever system is used, it must not create an additional risk for people who have to use it. Carry out a risk assessment and select the safest and most appropriate method of securing the load.”
“Consult the vehicle manufacturer, trade industry bodies and suppliers of proprietary load security systems who will be able to provide advice.”
