Load security has been a hot topic over the past 12 months, mostly because once we started taking a closer look at this during our roadside enforcement checks, it became clear that this was a much larger issue – due to the variety of vehicles, loads, load positioning, securing devices and interpretations of what constitutes a secure load – than we first expected.
Our customer and stakeholder relationships are important to us. We have a policy of open involvement, particularly when we’re introducing new working practices. When we began to introduce our load security policy, we attended seminars and conferences and held meetings regularly with the trade and trade associations to exchange information on load security.
During these events we were often asked if we had any shorter or simpler guidance available for operators and drivers than the existing Department for Transport code of practice and the EU best practice guide.
This year we set up a working party with members from across the industry. We have included trade associations, vehicle manufacturers, operators, Health and Safety Executive and Highways Agency to look at what could be done to help you.
The first meeting held in January was very productive. Some excellent ideas were discussed, including the production of YouTube videos, pictorial leaflets and some simple guides. The hard work has now started on sorting out the details of what can be produced and who will contribute their expertise.
What load security issue would you most like to see addressed? Would you prefer a video, leaflet or short guide to help you? Email your thoughts to movingon@vosa.gov.uk to feed in to this process.