Safety of loads on vehicles

ISBN 9780115525476

Corporate Author: Department for Transport. Publisher: TSO (The Stationery Office)

In the UK every year, there are over 4,000 successful prosecutions of drivers and operators for unsafe loads, whilst many other incidents go unreported. The legal requirements seek to ensure all loads carried by commercial vehicles are adequately secured in order to protect those involved in loading, unloading and driving the vehicle, as well as other road users and pedestrians. This guide discusses the basic principles of load safety, as well as giving recommendations for specific loads including metal, timber and glass. It also covers any equipment on the vehicle such as loader cranes, landing legs and tailgates. It contains references to industry standards and codes of practice, and addresses the legal framework and possible offences.