A. 200mm below the side of the vehicle body
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A. 200mm below the side of the vehicle body
B. 100mm below the side of the vehicle body
C. The same height as the vehicle body
D. 100mm higher than the height of the vehicle body
Uncovered, loose bulk loads are liable to fall from the vehicle if they are higher than 100mm below the height of the vehicle body. They should be covered with a tarp or other cover to stop them blowing away, as can be seen above with this truck and trailer carting soil.
Loose loads are usually described as sand, soil, quarry products, waste materials from demolition, primary products and any other fine particles that might be susceptible to being dislodged by the wind.
Loose loads will be affected by wind turbulence passing over the trailer. Loads can blow away gradually if they are fine, such as sand, they can be dislodged in large chunks, or (in the case of some kinds flat, lightweight materials) can be lifted by the wind and cause a danger to other motorists. Loose loads settling on roads creates a hazards, especially for motorbikes, as it makes the road surface more slippery. Loads should ideally be sheeted or otherwise covered.
When multiple tarpaulins are used, the load should be sheeted from the rear first, with forward tarpaulins overlapping the one behind so that air flow doesn't lift them.
It is compulsory on some routes to cover some types of loose loads.
Drivers should also be aware of items in the cab, too, that can be thrown forwards under heavy braking.