Tasmanian Heavy Vehicle Driver's Handbook - Transport

7• DunnageThis is packing placed under or between parts of the load. It is used toallow loading and unloading with forklifts or lifting slings. It is usually madeof rectangular or square hardwood or softwood and must be strong enoughto support the weight of the load placed upon it.A load with multiple layers or rows must have all dunnage placed directlyabove the bottom dunnage. Tie-down lashings must only be placed atthese positions along the load to ensure that the lashings do not loosen orovertighten if the vehicle chassis flexes.Long rigid loads such as large diameter steel pipes must be supported in twopositions to allow the vehicle to flex. Additional dunnage (and lashings) will needto be used along the lengths of more flexible loads such as plastic pipes etc.Dunnage needs to be vertically aligned to The dunnage is placed irregularly andminimise movement when under lashings. could loosen or overtighten lashingswhen the vehicle is operating.• Gates/fencingA load can also be secured with sidegates, tailgates and other blocks. Thesidegates have to be strong enough not to be forced out by the weight ofthe load. Other blocks should be secured and braced. You should close andlock the tailgate of your vehicle unless the load is too long. Never carry anyseparate part of the load on the tailgate.Where small pipes or logs are carried, suitable sidegates or othercontainment methods should be used to prevent sideways movement.A load secured from sidewaysmovement by gates and fencing.A load not secured fromsideways movement.Tasmanian Heavy Vehicle Handbook 87