Loading cargo onto a semi-truck needs to be efficient, but it also needs to be safe. Focusing too much on speed can result in bodily harm, not to mention damaged cargo. As the old saying goes, slow is steady and steady is fast. Keep reading for cargo loading safety tips. If you have any questions or want to shop semi-trucks for sale, head over to White’s International Trucks. We operate seven dealerships throughout North Carolina.
Prepare The Semi-Truck For Loading
Safe cargo loading starts with proper preparation. Check that the floor and semi-truck cargo bay are both clean. That way, items won’t get dirtied up (or even damaged) upon loading.
Next, make sure you understand the semi-truck’s weight capacity. It’s illegal and dangerous to exceed this limit! The weight of all the cargo should be well-within this limit.
Finally, position the semi-truck for safe loading. Park the vehicle on a level surface and use wheel chocks if necessary. Make sure the engine is turned off and the keys are removed. If you can, try to avoid loading during the evening or during poor weather. There will be reduced visibility, which can make loading more challenging.
Stay Alert In The Loading Area
Those involved in loading up the semi-truck need to be on high alert. Don’t step towards the rig until it comes to a full stop. If the driver needs to back the vehicle up, everyone else should clear out of the loading area. The driver has limited visibility and it helps to back the semi-truck up in a clear area.
It’s also important to limit the people in the loading area. It’s like the saying, “too many cooks in the kitchen.” Try to only have those involved with loading in the area. This helps reduce the chances of confusion and accidents.
Employ The Right Lifting Techniques
There are right ways to lift heavy items…and there are wrong ways that increase the chances of injury or broken cargo. Make sure you use the proper strategies!
These include:
- Never lifting something over 50 pounds alone. For those extra heavy items, get another worker to help.
- Wear safety gear, which includes gloves, high visibility clothing, sturdy steel-toed boots, and ear plugs.
- Bend with your knees, not at your waist.
- Position elbows close to your body.
- Position the item close to your body and in the mid-thigh to mid-chest area.
- Try to keep your spine neutral.
- When you need to turn, do so with your feet and not your torso.
Make Sure The Cargo Is Secure
After the items are loaded, they will need to be secure. This helps prevent the items from shifting about during transportation, which could cause them damage or cause safety risks in the unloading process.
Different cargo will need to be secured in different ways, but common options are straps, braces, and load bars.
Employ Safe Unloading Techniques
Many of the safe loading techniques will be applied in the unloading process. Limit the people in the area, use proper lifting strategies, and so on. Taking all of these steps will set everyone up for a successful and safe experience.
We hope you found this safe cargo loading guide helpful. For more information or to shop semi-trucks for sale, chat with the experts at White’s International Trucks. We can help you find the best semi-truck for your needs and budget. Visit one of our seven dealerships in North Carolina today!
BUZZNERD TRUCKS