General Load Control Questions: 

What is load control, and why is it important?

Load control refers to the methods and equipment used to secure cargo on vehicles or within containers to prevent movement during transport. It's crucial for the safety of drivers, other road users, and the cargo itself. Improperly restrained loads can cause accidents, injuries, and significant property damage. In Australia, it's a legal requirement to ensure loads are safely secured

How do I choose the right load control product for my needs?

The ideal load control product depends on several factors, including:

• Type of Load: Shape, size, weight, and fragility.
• Vehicle Type: Truck, trailer, van, ute, container.
• Loading Surface: Material and friction coefficient.
• Restraint Method: Tie-down (friction-based) or direct lashing.
• Australian Standards & Regulations: Ensuring compliance for your specific application. We highly recommend consulting our Load Control Buyer's Guide or contacting our expert team for personalised advice.
  
  
  
  

 Product Usage & Safety: 

How often should I inspect my load control equipment? 

• Before Each Use (In-Service Inspection): A visual inspection should be carried out before every use to check for cuts, tears, abrasions, heat damage, chemical damage, excessive wear, or any other signs of damage or degradation.
• Periodic Thorough Inspection: Equipment should undergo a more thorough inspection by a competent person at least every six months, or more frequently depending on environmental conditions and usage intensity. Any damaged or worn equipment must be immediately removed from service.

Can I repair damaged load restraint straps or chains?

Generally, no. For safety reasons, damaged load restraint equipment, particularly webbing straps and chains, should be immediately removed from service and replaced. Repairs can compromise the strength and integrity of the equipment, leading to potential failure. Never knot webbing, as this significantly reduces its strength.

What should I do if a load shifts during transit?

If a load shifts during transit, you should:

1. Safely pull over to a secure location as soon as possible.
2. Assess the situation carefully, ensuring your personal safety.
3. Re-secure the load using appropriate methods and equipment before continuing your journey.
4. If the load cannot be safely re-secured, or if it poses an immediate danger, seek professional assistance. Drivers are legally obligated to regularly check their loads.

 Australian Regulations & Compliance:  

What are the key Australian regulations for load restraint?

In Australia, load restraint is primarily governed by the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) and the National Load Restraint Guide (currently 2018 version, with a 2025 update available from NHVR). These documents outline performance standards that load restraint systems must meet, specifying the minimum forces a system must withstand in forward, rearward, sideways, and upward directions.

What is the "Chain of Responsibility" (CoR) in load restraint?

The Chain of Responsibility (CoR) legislation means that everyone in the supply chain who has control or influence over a transport task shares responsibility for ensuring compliance with road transport laws, including load restraint. This can include consignors, packers, loaders, drivers, operators, and consignees. All parties must take reasonable steps to prevent breaches.

Do SpanSet products comply with Australian Standards?

Yes, SpanSet Australia is committed to manufacturing and supplying load control equipment that meets or exceeds relevant Australian Standards (AS/NZS). Our products are rigorously tested to ensure they provide the necessary safety and performance for Australian conditions. Always check individual product specifications for specific standards compliance.

SpanSet Specifics:

Where can I find the Load Control product catalogue?

Our latest Load Control product catalogue is available for download directly from the "Resources" section of this landing page, or you can request a physical copy by contacting our sales team.

Does SpanSet Australia offer load restraint training?

Yes, SpanSet Australia is a leading provider of nationally accredited training courses, including comprehensive Load Restraint Training. Our courses cover principles, practical application, and compliance with Australian regulations. Visit our "Training" section for more details.

How can I get a quote for SpanSet load control products?

You can easily request a quote by clicking the "Request a Quote" button on this page, or by contacting our sales team directly via phone or email. Our details are available in the "Contact Us" section.