Friends drivers , especially those that begin in the long-distance transport, listen well: a load poorly stowed might be your worst enemy on the road. It does not matter if you are carrying boxes, machinery, liquids, or dangerous goods: if it is not properly classified, packaged and insured, may suffer from a rollover to severe fines. And believe me, the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) does not forgive these shortcomings.
First, demand, provided that in the loading docks will follow the rules. The UNE-en 12195-1 is key: the goods must go locked with straps, barriers or systems are non-slip. If you are going on pallets, loose, boxes, poorly stacked, or drums without restraint, not to start. as if the charge moves, you are responsible, at the time of the inspection.
Another issue , not all loads are equal. If transporting dangerous goods: such as gasoline, chemicals or explosives, the Agreement on the transport of dangerous goods requires special packaging, adapted vehicles and signaling mandatory. If you are carrying indivisible loads (such as heavy machinery), need special permits and routes authorized. A regular truck does not fit all, and if the General Direction of Traffic on the road and their documentation is not in a rule, the penalty can exceed 4,000€.
As you well know, the general traffic does not forgive. The General Regulation of Circulation (Royal Decree 1428/2003) says clearly that if the load extends without a signal or falls on the highway, they can fine them up to £ 500 and if they cause an accident, even go to trial. Imagine carrying beams evil subject that shoot out… that ends in tragedy and in the courts.
In this loads well organized , companies sometimes depressed, to save time or fastening material, but, you drivers are those who risk their safety and your driving licence.
If I load containers without tie, drums without protections or live loads (and animals) without proper ventilation, have the right to refuse. The Law 15/2009 of the Contract of Carriage the covers: the charger must ensure that the goods travel on legal terms.
Something else, on long journeys, check the load each time. The straps are loosened, the pallets are moved and the wind can move tarps or boxes. Stop at service areas to adjust the clamp can prevent a disaster.
The General Directorate of Traffic GT performs specific controls on the road, and if you find a load unsafe, the immobilization of the truck is the least that can happen to you, you carrier is the one that loses.
Finally, document everything. If they accept a load poorly prepared or under pressure from the boss or the customer to record pictures or videos as proof. In an accident, they will always look guilty, and if they can demonstrate that warned of the risk, will save you from trouble.
Our proposal is that they should not be trusted , are required to do this proper and set. Subject professional and appropriate vehicles. The life and work permit, as well as your budget rely on to comply with a good attitude and require optimal loads.
The team Powerload.is the candle for you.
A great route, and always attentive!