Keeping your load secure is a crucial part of transporting your equipment from one location to another, which is why tiedowns are necessary. Tiedowns are made from a variety of different materials, from chains to synthetic webbing. It’s important to know the strength of the tiedowns and methods for tying down your load before use.
What is the Working Load Limit?
The working load limit (WLL) refers to the maximum load or weight that a tiedown can safely handle. The WLL should not be confused with the breaking strength. Most tiedowns list their WLL or have a code on their tag that corresponds to their WLL. Be sure to check this before using. If the tiedown you’re using does not have this marked, you will need to check the tables in the Code of Federal Regulations.
Types of Tiedown Methods
There are two main types of tiedown methods: direct and indirect.
- Direct Tiedown
A direct tiedown has one end attached to an anchor point on the vehicle and the other end attached to the cargo. The angle of a direct tiedown should be less than 45 degrees from horizontal. You can only count 50% of the WLL for these tiedowns when determining the aggregate WLL. - Indirect tiedown
An indirect tiedown is not directly attached to the cargo. Instead, it passes over, around, or through the cargo with both ends connecting to anchor points on opposite sides of the vehicle. For indirect tiedowns or any tiedowns that pass over the cargo, the angle should be greater than 45 degrees from horizontal, and you can count 100% of the WLL.
How Many Tiedowns Do You Need?
The combined or aggregate WLL of each of your tiedowns must equal at least 50% of your cargo’s weight, according to the FMCSA’s cargo securement rules. This means that you will count 100% of the WLL for indirect tiedowns and 50% of the WLL for direct tiedowns and add up the total.
Inspecting Tiedowns
Just like any other piece of equipment, tiedowns should be inspected on a regular basis to ensure they are up to their highest standards. Using a tiedown that is damaged can compromise the securement of the entire load. Before each use, thoroughly check the tiedowns for signs of wear and tear such as holes, cuts, snags, and signs of UV damage. Also check the buckles and hooks for signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. Be sure that the tags are present with the information visible.
Have more questions about tiedowns and load securement? Read more information here, and contact Olsen Chain & Cable today for expert guidance when it comes to keeping your cargo load safe and secure.
