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Driver's Handbook on Cargo Securement - Chapter 2: General Cargo Securement Requirements

General Cargo Securement Requirements

Components of a Securement System - Continued

Edge protection

Edge protection must be used if a tiedown could be cut or torn when touching an article of cargo. The edge protection itself must also resist crushing, cutting, and abrasion.

Left: Use of edge protection Right: Edge protector

Blocking and bracing

Material used

The material used for blocking or bracing and as chocks and cradles must be strong enough to withstand being split or crushed by the cargo or tiedowns.

This requirement also applies to any material used for dunnage.

If wood is used:

• Hardwood is recommended.
• It should be properly seasoned.
• It should be free from rot or decay, knots, knotholes, and splits.

The grain should run lengthwise when using wood for blocking or bracing.

Containing, Immobilizing, and Securing Cargo

To correctly contain, immobilize, or secure cargo, you need to know about:

• Three ways to transport cargo
• Loading the cargo properly
• Restraining the cargo correctly
• Using adequate securing devices
• Aggregate Working Load Limit

Note: These requirements cover all types of cargo except: Commodities in bulk that lack structure or fixed shape (for example, liquids, gases, grain, sand, gravel, aggregate, liquid concrete). Commodities that are transported in the structure of a commercial motor vehicle such as a tank, hopper, or box.

Three ways to transport cargo

All types of cargo must meet one of three conditions:

Condition 1: Cargo is fully contained by structures of adequate strength.

Cargo cannot shift or tip

Cargo is restrained against horizontal movement by vehicle structure or by other cargo. Horizontal movement includes forward, rearward, and side to side.

Note: If the cargo is contained in a sided vehicle, the vehicle structure MUST be strong enough to withstand the forces described earlier.

• Forward force: 0.8 g (80%)
• Rearward force: 0.5.g (50%)
• Sideways force: 0.5 g (50%)

Condition 2:

Cargo is immobilized by structures adequate strength or a combination of structure, blocking, and bracing to prevent shifting or tipping.

Condition 3: To prevent shifting or tipping, cargo is immobilized or secured on or within a vehicle by tiedowns along with:

• Blocking.
• Bracing.
• Friction mats.
• Other cargo.
• Void fillers.
• Combination of these.