If you have to move anything from your ATV to some furniture from point A to point B then you may have invested in a few tie down straps. As one of the most effective methods to secure cargo, tie downs are a must to safely transport your items.
More commonly known as ratchet straps, tie downs will go a long way to ensuring that your goods don’t fall off the trailer or flatbed truck they’re being transported on. It’s important to point out that there are several safety considerations that you should consider if you’re using ratchet straps for the first time.
Proper and Safe use Should be Top Priority
It’s not uncommon to see Australians transporting their own goods when they’re moving or simply taking the ATV for a spin on the trails. That said, there’s a little more to safely using a ratchet strap than simply clicking it in place around your cargo. Our team of experts have compiled a list of the top safety tips to consider if you’re using your tie down straps for the first time.
Select the Best Ratchet Straps
Not all ratchet straps are the same. That means you should consider certain aspects of the cargo you’re going to move before just opting for any type of strap. When choosing the right ratchet strap for the job, keep the following in mind:
- Capacity: The capacity of a ratchet strap refers to the cargo weight that the strap will have to hold. For instance, the strap that holds your ATV on the back of your trailer will be considerably stronger than the one you might use to hold a coffee table. If you aren’t sure, always overestimate the weight to be on the safe side.
- Length: Straps should always fit comfortably over your cargo and reach the sides of your trailer. There shouldn’t be any strain or pieces that you join with other ropes or straps. Keep in mind that this will cause tension and may result in the strap snapping mid-travel.
- Hooks: As with different types of straps, there are also a variety of hooks that are connected to the straps. It’s important to purchase the right hooks for the type and capacity of ratchet straps being used.
Correct Use is Key
This may sound like common sense, but our experts have seen instances where careless individuals have simply tied straps together, foregoing the use of hooks altogether! Not only is this extremely dangerous as your cargo isn’t 100% secure, but you’re also compromising the strap for future use.
Rather follow these simple steps to ensure that your ratchet straps are securely fastened:
- Step 1: Inspect the straps you’re going to use to ensure that there are no tears, loose fibres or other damages to the material or metal casing and locking mechanism.
- Step 2: Place the loose end of the strap into the mandrel (square metal part) of the tie down strap.
- Step 3: Once the strap is threaded safely into the mandrel, pull the strap through the mandrel.
- Step 4: Pull the slack to tighten the strap as tight as possible without straining.
- Step 5: Use the crank on the ratchet strap to securely tighten the strap.
- Step 6: Tug at the strap to test if it’s tightened enough. Avoid tangling, knotting or too much strain on the strap. The strap should be lying safely and securely over the cargo.
- Step 7: Lock the mandrel by pushing the handle downwards.
Storage is as Important
Once you have arrived at your destination, taking the ratchet straps off carefully and correctly storing them is as important as putting them on the right way. This is because incorrect storage can damage your ratchet straps, leaving you with inferior straps.
Consider these tips to keep your tie down straps stored safely:
- Always store ratchet straps in an airtight container, place them on a shelf or hang them against your garage wall. The only real criteria here is that storage is cool and dry and away from the sun. Keep in mind that the sun can weaken the strap material, leading to fraying and damage.
- Avoid any exposure to dampness or moisture as this creates the perfect environment for bacteria and mould growth. Not only do both of these damage the material fibres, but bacteria spores can also rub off on your hands posing a health risk if inhaled. If your straps got wet during a rainy trip, hang the straps up in your garage to dry out before packing them away.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring that you use your ratchet straps safely should be a top priority when you’re tying your cargo. This rule should apply whether you’re transporting a small item a few streets away, or your ATV across the country. Double-checking the straps should also feature high on your pre-transport checklist before you head out. Doing this will ensure that your cargo doesn’t put you and other drivers at risk.
People Also Reading:
3 Additional Services to Consider When Hiring a Mobile Crane for Your Project Requirements
3 Additional Services to Consider When Hiring a Mobile Crane for Your Project Requirements
