If you drive a van, there’s a good chance you load and unload it every day.
Photo by chansu shin on Unsplash
Businesses rely on van drivers being able to deliver and collect their goods quickly and efficiently. Unfortunately, many of these businesses don’t think about the logistics of the job, the safety of the drivers and their vehicles, and whether the drivers are working within the law.
For van drivers and the companies they work for, getting penalized can be costly. If they’re hurt while on a job and found to be working illegally, the consequences can be even worse as drivers could also face losing their license and, by extension, their job.
Weight limits and securing your load
Don’t Overload
Depending on the van and engine size, there are limits on the weight a driver can carry, regardless of whether the van is full. Always check the allowance and the weight of the goods that are being transported.
Secure Items
Make sure all items are loaded correctly. Any items that are small enough to move around in the event of a sudden stop should be secured. Chapter 8 Chevrons on the outside of the vehicle will also alert other drivers.
Safe practices in the cabin and on the road
Cabin Items
Many van drivers eat and drink on the go. It is illegal to do this while driving. Even if a driver is planning on pulling into a car park, if a drinks bottle, flask or mobile phone are loose in the cabin of the van, they could cause damage during an emergency stop.
Tying Down
Always have spare ratchet ties and use them! If the van doors were to fly open and a heavy item were to fly out, this could cause serious damage and injury. Many Chapter 8 Chevrons offer additional safety features for vans, making them stand out and identifiable as working vehicles. Be sure you have enough ratchet ties and Chapter 8 chevrons for safety.
Insurance, training and vehicle checks
Guidelines
All insurance details should be up-to-date, and a member of staff should be responsible for administering any changes. Failure to inform your insurance company can result in hefty fines and policies not being valid. If your business gets into trouble and you need legal assistance firms like these Ascot Solicitors may be able to provide support.
Responsible companies should provide all their drivers with manuals and ensure they have had safety training. They should also make sure all vehicle checks are up-to-date and use a trustworthy servicing and repair garage.
Summary
This article sets out legal and safety obligations for van drivers loading goods. It covers weight limits depending on van and engine size, securing loose items and using Chapter 8 chevrons, and the illegality of eating, drinking or using a phone while driving with loose cabin items. It also stresses keeping insurance current, using ratchet ties, and drivers getting manuals, training and vehicle checks.
Questions this article raises
- How is the weight allowance for a specific van and engine size actually calculated?
- What counts as adequate securing for loose items under UK law?
- What are the penalties if a driver is caught using a phone with items loose in the cabin?