Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides a structured approach to managing the risks associated with truck loading, unloading and general load restraint, helping businesses achieve and maintain WHS compliance. It is a comprehensive document that covers multiple aspects of Truck Loading Unloading and General Load Restraint, from correct load distribution to the safe use of restraint systems and equipment.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Fastening and securing loads using ratchet straps, including correct tensioning and inspection
• Safe flat-bed truck loading and unloading procedures to prevent falls, crush injuries and load shift
• Identifying and rectifying inadequate securing of loads before departure and during transit checks
• Loading and securing vehicles for transport, including cars, plant and machinery on trucks or trailers
• Applying proper loading techniques to minimise manual handling risks and protect vehicle stability
• Properly securing loose items and small components to prevent movement, loss or ejection during transport
• Safe operation, inspection and maintenance of ratchet straps and associated load restraint hardware
• Recognising, managing and rectifying vehicle overloads, including compliance with mass limits
• Selection and use of appropriate restraint systems for transport, such as chains, straps, boards, pogo sticks and bars
• Securing loads for road transport in accordance with the National Transport Commission Load Restraint Guide
• Strapping down loads to prevent shifting, tipping, rolling or falling from the vehicle
• Tightening load straps safely, avoiding over-tensioning and ergonomic strain
• Truck loading and load restraint using boards, pogo’s and bars to create barriers and prevent load movement
• General truck loading and load restraint risk controls, including exclusion zones and traffic management
• Understanding and applying load distribution principles to maintain centre of gravity and vehicle stability

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for transport operators, freight and logistics companies, warehousing and distribution centres, truck drivers, loading dock personnel and site supervisors responsible for truck loading, unloading and load restraint activities.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017
• National Transport Commission Load Restraint Guide: Guidance on securing loads on road vehicles to prevent movement during transport
• Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice: Safe use of trucks, forklifts and loading equipment
• Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice: Controls for lifting, pushing, pulling and handling loads during loading and unloading
• Managing Risks of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Controls for working on truck decks, trailers and elevated loading areas
• Managing Risks of Traffic in Workplaces (where applicable state/territory guidance): Safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians in loading zones