LWS: Introduction to Flatbed Safety & Securement (ENG)

The flatbed program covers essential topics such as load securement techniques, equipment uses, regulatory compliance, and best practices for preventing accidents. Through instruction and checks for understanding, participants will gain the confidence and skills necessary to safely and effectively secure loads on flatbed trailers.

This program is tailored to meet the needs of both entry-level drivers and seasoned professionals who seek to reinforce their knowledge. By participating in this course, individuals will be better prepared to handle the challenges of the flatbed industry and contribute to a safer working environment.

The flatbed courses are part of our broader mission to ensure ‘no accidents, ever’ by providing the education and support necessary to achieve the highest standards of safety and securement in the flatbed industry.

LWS: Flatbed Understanding Bridge Laws (ENG)

Bridge laws are a critical part of transportation safety and compliance. These laws regulate how
weight is distributed across a commercial vehicle’s axles, as well as the spacing between those
axles. Their main purpose is to protect roads and bridges from damage caused by concentrated
weight. When properly understood and followed, bridge laws help ensure the safe and efficient
movement of freight, reduce the risk of violations, and extend the life of our infrastructure.
At the federal level, these regulations are enforced through the Federal Bridge Formula, which is
outlined in 23 CFR § 658.17.

In general, the more axles a vehicle has, and the farther apart they are spaced, the more weight it
can legally carry — up to the federal gross weight limit of 80,000 pounds. The Bridge Formula is
designed to reward well-spaced axle groups by allowing higher axle group weights, provided the
overall gross weight remains compliant.

LWS: Flatbed Equipment (ENG)

LWS: Flatbed Driver Safety (ENG)

Driver Safety Measures: Ensuring driver safety is paramount in the flatbed industry. Drivers must
adhere to safety protocols to protect themselves, their cargo, and other road users. Key safety
measures include wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following traffic
laws, maintaining situational awareness, and taking regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

It is important to note that driver safety should be among your highest priorities while
performing your job as a flatbed driver. FSSG encourages you to wear steel toe shoes or boots,
durable jeans, a long sleeve shirt, hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and ear plugs. By wearing PPE,
you ensure that you are protecting not only yourself, but the company you are representing while
interacting with your customers.

While performing your duties, be careful of your surroundings. Be sure to wear a high visibility
vest and be equipped with a flashlight in dark situations. Never stand beside any loading or
unloading equipment and always be in eye range of any equipment operator to ensure your
safety. While being loaded or unloaded, that safest place for you to be is inside your truck, or at
the very rear of your trailer (always follow shipper and/or receiver policy for safe
loading/unloading procedures). Never stand on top of, or near the sides of your trailer during
the loading or unloading process as this can result in injury. Do not begin securing or un-
securing while heavy machinery is present.

LWS: Flatbed Binders (ENG)

Binders are essential devices used to tighten chains and secure loads on flatbed trailers, ensuring
that cargo remains stable and safely anchored during transport. These devices come in various
types, each specifically designed to meet different securement needs, making them versatile tools
in the flatbed industry.

The primary types of binders include ratchet binders and lever binders. Ratchet binders, also
known as load binders, feature a ratcheting mechanism that allows for precise tensioning of the
chains. This type is particularly advantageous for its ease of use and ability to achieve high
tension with minimal physical effort. Lever binders, on the other hand, use a lever action to
tighten the chains and are known for their straightforward design and quick application. While
lever binders are effective, they require more physical strength to operate compared to ratchet
binders.

Understanding the different types of binders and their Working Load Limits (WLL) is crucial for
safe and effective load securement. The WLL indicates the maximum load that a binder can
safely handle, and selecting a binder with an appropriate WLL is essential to prevent overloading
and potential failure. This ensures that the binder can adequately support the weight and
demands of the load being transported.

LWS: Flatbed Federal Regulations (ENG)

In this next section, we will list the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR) 49 CFR
393.100-393.136 as it appears, in the order it is written. The eCFR is an up-to-date, unofficial
version of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), which is the codification of the general and
permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the departments and agencies of the
Federal Government. This information is provided here for educational purposes and is not our
own; it belongs to the eCFR.

Understanding the eCFR is imperative to cargo securement and is crucial for anyone pursuing a
career in the flatbed industry. The eCFR outlines the regulations and guidelines that ensure the
safe and secure transport of cargo on flatbed trailers. By adhering to these regulations, flatbed
operators can prevent accidents, avoid fines, and maintain a high standard of safety on the roads.

For those looking to build a successful career in the flatbed industry, a thorough knowledge of
these regulations is essential. It ensures that you are compliant with federal laws and helps you to
execute your job with the utmost professionalism and safety.

LWS: Flatbed Over-Dimensional (ENG)

Transporting over-dimensional loads requires careful attention to specific signage, lights, and
flags to ensure visibility and compliance with regulations. These indicators play a crucial role in
alerting other road users to the presence of an oversized load, thus enhancing safety and legal
adherence. Proper use of these indicators is essential to prevent accidents and ensure that the
transport operation adheres to all relevant laws and guidelines.

The process begins with the correct application of signage. Oversized load signs are mandatory
and must be prominently displayed on both the front and rear of the transporting vehicle. These
signs typically feature bright colors, such as yellow or orange, with large, easily readable lettering
to ensure high visibility. The placement of these signs should be secure and visible from a
distance, warning other drivers to exercise caution.

In addition to signage, appropriate lighting is crucial for transporting over-dimensional loads,
especially during low light conditions or at night. Vehicles carrying oversized loads are required
to have amber lights on the sides and rear to increase visibility. These lights should be functional
and strategically placed to outline the extremities of the load, helping other drivers gauge its size
and shape. In some cases, rotating or flashing beacons may be used to further enhance visibility
and draw attention to the oversized nature of the load.

LWS: Flatbed Step Deck Loads (ENG)

Securing heavy machinery on Step Deck Loads demands specialized techniques to ensure
both safety and stability throughout the transportation process. The substantial size and
weight of heavy machinery present unique challenges that must be meticulously addressed
to prevent accidents and ensure the machinery reaches its destination securely.

The process begins with careful planning and preparation. Before loading the heavy machinery
onto the trailer, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the trailer for any structural weaknesses or
defects that could compromise the load's stability. Selecting the right type of trailer—RGN,
Step Deck, or Double Drop—based on the machinery's dimensions and weight is essential.
Each trailer type offers different advantages for transporting oversized or heavy equipment,
with RGN trailers being particularly suitable for the heaviest loads due to their low center of
gravity and robust steel construction.

Once the appropriate trailer is chosen and inspected, the next step involves the precise
placement of the heavy machinery. The machinery should be loaded in a way that ensures an
even distribution of weight across the trailer, maintaining balance and preventing undue stress
on any part of the trailer.

LWS: Flatbed Specialized Loads (ENG)

Securing tank heads and metal domes on a flatbed trailer requires specialized techniques to
prevent movement and ensure safety. The unique shape and substantial weight of these items
pose significant challenges, necessitating a meticulous approach to ensure they are transported
securely and arrive at their destination intact.

The process begins with thorough planning and preparation. Before loading tank heads and metal
domes onto the trailer, it's essential to inspect the trailer for any structural weaknesses or defects
that could compromise the stability of the load. Selecting the appropriate trailer and ensuring it is
in good condition is the first step in securing these heavy and awkwardly shaped items.

Proper placement of the tank heads and metal domes on the trailer is crucial. These items
should be positioned to distribute their weight evenly across the trailer's surface, maintaining
balance and preventing undue stress on any part of the trailer. Typically, placing the heavier
items closer to the trailer's center and over the axles can help achieve optimal stability.
Securing these items involves using robust and reliable equipment. Heavy-duty chains, straps, and
binders are essential tools for this task. Given the curved surfaces of tank heads and metal
domes, it is crucial to use multiple points of securement to prevent any movement. Chains and
straps should be placed strategically around the items, ensuring they are tightly bound and unable
to shift during transit. Using edge protectors is recommended to prevent the straps and chains
from damaging the items or becoming cut, which could weaken the securement.