TPN and RHA pioneer innovative solution for safe loading of double-deck trailers

Staff and Members at leading pallet network TPN have worked alongside the Road Haulage Association to produce the first load security system for double-deck trailers which addresses the concerns of enforcement agencies,which has been agreed as best practice by VOSA.

The RHA/TPN working group has developed fresh guidance on load security for the haulage industry and a prototype of an additional, internal curtain-and-strap solution which will now be trialled by volunteer TPN Members. The straps are integral with the curtain and go inboard under the top deck to improve containment. The curtain is operated from ground level.

The original design was suggested by RHA’s load restraint expert Ray Engley and further developed by Mr Engley, TPN’s health and safety manager Tom Cassin, TWE Haulage MD Trevor Edden, Eezehaul MD Mark Duggan, Transervice Express MD Paul Johnson, MWT MD Mark Watkins and Pallet Express Systems MD Martyn Bowers.

The system was developed in conjunction with trailer maker Montracon, which lent its expertise and support.

“The security of double deck loads has become a key concern of the enforcement agencies and the haulage industry,” says Mark Kendall, TPN operations director. “Double-deck trailers contribute hugely in terms of commercial and environmental efficiency and yet, for us, safety is always the paramount concern. We are very proud that our Members have stepped up to try to solve this problem alongside RHA.”

The curtain-and-strap solution will be free to any trailer maker or haulage operator to adopt.

The internal curtain with integral straps contains pallets more effectively than using internal straps on their own, making operations safer on the road and during unloading. It is also quick to use with a TPN representative strapping every pallet and closing the curtains on both sides within ten minutes.

The enforcement agency DVSA have been part of the process and have agreed the guidance notes which will be issued by RHA concerning load security.

RHA Head of Technical Services Ray Engley said: “Securing the top deck of double-deck curtain-siders has been a challenging issue for the industry. I am delighted that the Association has been able to work with member companies to propose what we hope will be a solution for the future that meets the requirements of regulators and operators.”

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