Security - J2 SERVID

Dangerous goods. Transport and stowage of this type of goods according to the Law and how to do it in a safe and efficient way.

The transport of dangerous goods is an activity that involves special risks due to the nature of the materials involved. It is crucial that strict rules and regulations are followed to ensure the safety of workers, the general public and the environment.

What is defined as dangerous goods

Dangerous goods are those materials that, due to their intrinsic properties, represent a risk to health, safety or the environment during transportation. These goods can be solid, liquid or gaseous and are divided into different classes according to their hazardous characteristics, such as explosive, flammable, toxic, corrosive or radioactive.

Dangerous goods cover a wide range of products, ranging from industrial chemicals to biological substances or radioactive materials. Common examples of dangerous goods include flammable products such as gasoline, toxic substances such as industrial chemicals, corrosive materials such as acids and bases, and explosives such as fireworks.

What regulates the transport of dangerous goods in Spain?

In Spain, the transport of dangerous goods is regulated by Royal Decree 97/2014, concerning the transport operations of dangerous goods by road in Spanish territory. This Royal Decree incorporates international regulations on the transport of dangerous goods, in particular the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).

Royal Decree 97/2014 establishes specific requirements for the classification, packaging, labeling, documentation and transport of dangerous goods. It also regulates the responsibilities of the different actors involved in transport, such as shippers, carriers and consignees. In addition, it establishes safety measures to prevent accidents and minimize impacts in case of emergency.

How to stow and transport dangerous goods safely and efficiently

To stow and transport dangerous goods safely and efficiently, it is essential to follow certain precautions and good practices. Listed below are some key tips for the safe stowage and handling of dangerous goods:

Classification. It is essential to correctly classify dangerous goods in accordance with current regulations to ensure safe and proper handling.

Packaging. Dangerous goods must be packed in suitable packaging that complies with safety regulations and is resistant to the specific risks of the hazardous substances.

Labeling and signage. It is essential to clearly label dangerous goods containers with appropriate pictograms and warning signs to inform workers and emergency services of the associated risks.

Complete documentation. Appropriate documentation, such as the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and the transport certificate, is required to inform about the characteristics of the dangerous goods and the necessary precautions.

Staff training. It is essential to train personnel involved in the handling and transport of dangerous goods so that they are familiar with the risks and know how to act in case of emergency.

Follow-up and control. Monitoring and control mechanisms must be established throughout the transportation process to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent incidents.

Tygard

At J2 we have the most versatile dangerous goods protection system on the market, Tygard. This system is manufactured with a 40 cm wide flexible band, formed by more than 7800 high resistance multifilaments. It is laminated with a high-strength acrylic adhesive that adheres to the container walls for maximum strength, but removes easily upon arrival at destination without leaving a trace on the container walls.

It can be used with drums, Big-Bags, IBC’s, dangerous goods, explosives and all types of palletized goods, and complies with the cargo securing standards established by the IMDG Code or International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).

Conclusion

The transport of dangerous goods is an activity that requires a careful and responsible approach to ensure the safety of people and the environment. It is crucial that the established regulations are followed and that adequate prevention measures are adopted to minimize the risks associated with this type of goods.

Through safe and efficient stowage and handling, the transport of dangerous goods can be carried out effectively and without compromising safety.

More information:

Lashing

ProTyGard

Services

ProSmart

How does anti-slip mat and anti-slip paper work? What are their most common uses?

Non-slip mats and papers are a crucial element in the transportation of goods, since they provide safety and stability to the load during the journey. These anti-skid mats or papers avoid the movement of the goods and prevent them from tilting, which protects both the goods and the vehicle transporting them.

Operation of the anti-skid device

Non-skid transport mats are designed with materials that provide a rough, grippy surface that helps prevent goods from slipping during transport. These types of mats are usually made from materials such as rubber or recycled rubber, and the anti-slip paper sheets usually have a treatment incorporated into the paper that prevents the goods on top from slipping between layers during hard braking or tilting.

The main characteristic of anti-skid pads is their ability to adhere to the cargo and the vehicle floor. This is achieved thanks to their rough texture and friction properties, which prevent cargo movement even under hard braking conditions or sharp curves.

Slip-resistant

ProSlip

Most common uses of anti-skid mats and papers

Pallet transport: Non-slip mats and papers are widely used in the transport of palletized goods, as they prevent boxes and products placed on the pallet from slipping or falling during transport. This is essential to ensure the integrity of the goods and avoid possible damage.

Delivery vans: In goods delivery vehicles, anti-skid mats are essential to keep the load safe and stable during product delivery. Avoiding movement of the goods is essential to ensure efficiency and safety in transportation.

Transport of heavy goods: In the case of heavy or bulky goods, anti-skid mats play a crucial role in preventing the load from shifting and generating stability problems in the vehicle. These mats provide a safe and stable base for the goods, avoiding possible accidents.

Cargo trucks: In cargo trucks, anti-skid mats and papers are used to protect both the goods between layers and the vehicle floor. They prevent the cargo from moving during transport and prevent damage to the goods, while protecting the surface of the truck from possible scratches or impacts.

Our models

In J2 we have two types of anti-skid, the ProSlip Rubber type that is used to place between the pallet and the surface of the truck or container and the ProSlip Paper type , which is used by placing the sheets of paper between the different layers of the pallet (between the boxes or bags) and thus avoid slipping in front of a possible braking or sudden change of movement.

ProSlip Rubber is an anti-slip model made of rubber and is suitable for road transport, but also very useful for securing cargo in sea, air or rail transport.

ProSlip Paper is made of paper and is suitable for placement between the different layers of the pallet and with any type of packaging, cardboard boxes, plastic or paper sacks.

Anti-slip mats are indispensable in the transport and protection of goods, as they guarantee the safety and stability of the load during the transport or movement of goods. Their use avoids the displacement and inclination of the goods, contributing to their protection and avoiding accidents, losses and inconveniences.

The importance of periodically inspecting load securing systems

Cargo securing is a fundamental aspect in the logistics and transportation of goods. Ensuring that cargo is properly secured during transportation is key to prevent accidents and material damage. In this sense, periodic inspection of cargo securing systems is essential to verify their condition and ensure their correct operation. The following are three reasons why it is important to perform this type of inspection on a regular basis.

Safety on the road and during transport

A cargo securing system in poor condition or incorrectly installed can cause accidents on the road. An improperly secured load can shift during the journey, causing dangerous situations for both the vehicle driver and other road users. It is therefore crucial to periodically check load securing systems to ensure that they comply with established safety regulations and that they are in optimal working condition.

Regular inspections make it possible to detect possible faults or wear on securing elements such as straps, chains or lashings and to take corrective measures in good time. In this way, accidents are prevented and safe and efficient transport of cargo is ensured.

In the post How to check for damage to lashing and lashing straps in stevedoring we have given some tips on this subject.

Lashing

ProStrap

Lashing

ProLash

Lashing

ProTyGard

Regulatory compliance

The transport regulatory authorities establish specific regulations regarding the securing of cargo, with the aim of ensuring safety on the roads. These regulations cover aspects such as the load capacity of vehicles, the types of lashing permitted and the correct distribution of the load inside the transport.

Periodic inspection of cargo securing systems is essential to ensure compliance with current regulations on the transport of goods. This avoids penalties and fines for non-compliance with regulations, as well as, as we said, avoiding possible accidents resulting from inadequate load securing.

We recommend the articles Las obligaciones en el amarreamiento de cargas, ¿Quién es el responsable de la carga y la estibacion en camión? and Las mejores prácticas en la sujeción de cargas y qué hay que tener que tener en cuenta, where we go into more detail on this subject.

Cost savings

Keeping load securing systems in good condition is not only important from a safety and regulatory compliance standpoint, but also represents a long-term cost savings for the company. Proper maintenance of these systems helps to prolong their service life and prevent premature deterioration, reducing the need for frequent replacement.

Therefore, it is advisable to establish a regular inspection plan for these systems, in order to guarantee their correct operation and minimize risks in cargo transportation. At J2 we have certified lashing systems, manufactured with high quality polyester, approved and certified by several international laboratories, and available in various widths and strengths. If you want to know more, please contact us.

Good practices for cargo stowage and protection in multimodal transport

Stowage and protection of cargo in multimodal transport are essential to ensure the safety of the goods during the entire journey. This procedure consists of properly securing the goods in the means of transport used throughout the logistics chain. This involves not only distributing the cargo correctly inside the container, truck, train, ship or airplane, but also protecting it from possible damage during handling and transport.

What is multimodal transportation?

Multimodal transport is that which uses two or more modes of transport (road, rail, sea, air) in a single transport contract to carry cargo from origin to destination. It is a system in which the efficiency of different modes of transport is combined to optimize the logistics chain and provide a comprehensive solution to freight transport needs.

The stowage and protection of cargo in multimodal transport is particularly important, since the goods change means of transport at different points along the route, which increases the risk of damage if it is not done correctly.

Lashing

ProStrap

Lashing

ProLash

Recorders

ProControl

Good practices for cargo stowage and protection in multimodal transport

Use the right packaging: It is essential to choose the right packaging for the goods, considering their nature, size, weight and fragility. The packaging must be strong, safe and suitable to withstand the different modes of transport and handling along the way.

We talked more about this topic in the recent post The different types of packaging and their impact on the stowage of goods.

Correct load distribution: The distribution of the load inside the container or means of transport is key to ensure the stability and safety of the goods. It is important to take into account the center of gravity of the load, distribute the weight in a balanced way and secure the load to avoid sudden movements and displacements during transport.

Use securing and lashing systems: To prevent the load from moving during transport, it is necessary to use appropriate securing, lashing and lashing systems. Lashing straps, webbing and restraint nets are some of the elements that can be used to effectively secure cargo and prevent possible damage.

Protect cargo against external agents: Goods are exposed to different external agents during transport, such as humidity, rain and temperature changes. Therefore, it is important to use protective materials to protect the cargo from possible damage caused by these factors. Temperature and humidity recording systems can be very useful in these cases.

Proper labeling and marking: Proper labeling and marking of cargo is essential to facilitate its identification, handling and transport throughout the logistics chain.

Information on the contents, fragility, handling direction and potential hazards of the cargo must be clearly visible on the packaging to avoid confusion and ensure proper handling.

The creation of stowage tokens is very important in the process. We have already talked about what stowage slips are and what European stowage slips are and what they are for in other blog articles, in case you want to go deeper into the subject.In short, stowage and protection of cargo in multimodal transport are fundamental aspects to ensure the integrity and safety of the goods during the entire transport process. By following the good practices mentioned above, you can minimize the risk of damage and loss, and avoid the most common mistakes, ensuring an efficient and safe logistics chain for all parties involved.

Obligations in cargo lashing

Cargo lashing is a fundamental activity in logistics and transportation, as it ensures that the goods to be transported are kept in place during the journey. To ensure that cargo lashing is performed safely and effectively, there are a number of obligations that must be met by all parties involved in the process.

In this article, we will explain the importance of complying with these obligations, the legal consequences of not doing so, as well as the tools and techniques used to ensure proper cargo lashing. We will also analyze the responsibility of all involved and how to prevent accidents and damages when complying with these obligations.

Importance of complying with cargo lashing obligations

Cargo lashing is essential to avoid traffic accidents, to protect goods and to prevent injuries to people. When a load is not properly lashed, it can slip or fall during transit, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road and generate significant material and personal damage.

Complying with cargo lashing obligations ensures that cargo remains secure and in place during the trip, minimizing the possibility of accidents and damage. In addition, proper load lashing helps maintain vehicle stability, avoiding sudden movements and improving maneuverability.

Voidfillers

Niupack

Lashing

ProStrap

Inflatable Bags

ProBag

Legal consequences of non-compliance with cargo lashing obligations

Failure to comply with cargo lashing obligations can have serious legal consequences. Legislation states that cargo transportation must be carried out in a safe manner and that cargo lashing must comply with certain standards and requirements.

In the event of an accident or damage caused by a deficient mooring, the responsible party may be fined and face financial and even criminal penalties, depending on the severity of the consequences. In addition, the person or company responsible may have to compensate affected third parties.

It is important to note that all parties involved in the transportation of cargo have responsibilities and obligations in relation to the lashing of cargo, including the carrier, shipper and shipper. Therefore, it is essential that all parties comply with their obligations.

For more information, see the article Best practices in load securing and what to look out for.

Tools and techniques for complying with cargo lashing obligations

To ensure proper load lashing, there are several tools and techniques that can be used. Some of the most common include:

- Lashing straps: These are strong, adjustable straps used to secure cargo to structures or anchorage points on the vehicle.

- Slings and webbing: These are bands of resistant material used to secure the load.

- Blocks and wedges: These elements are used to fix the load in position and prevent movement during transport. Protective corner protectors can also be very useful.

- Inflatable bags: used to protect and cushion goods from possible shocks.

- Protection of goods with padding: In addition to inflatable bags, systems such as Niupack are used to protect goods and fill the space between pallets.

- Correct load distribution: It is important to ensure that the load is evenly distributed throughout the vehicle, avoiding concentrations of weight in a single point.

In addition to the tools and techniques mentioned above, it is crucial to follow the established recommendations and standards for load lashing.

Prevention of accidents and damages when complying with cargo lashing obligations

Complying with cargo lashing obligations is key to preventing accidents and damage. Some preventive measures include:

Perform periodic inspections: Before starting the voyage, it is important to check the condition of the cargo lashing and make adjustments if necessary.

Train personnel: Both the transporter and the personnel in charge of cargo lashing must receive adequate training on the techniques and tools to be used.

Use the right amount of securing elements: It is important to make sure that you use enough fasteners to ensure the stability of the load, without overdoing it.

Establish protocols and procedures: Having clear protocols and standardized procedures helps ensure that cargo lashing obligations are met in a uniform and efficient manner.

Conclusion

Complying with cargo lashing obligations is essential to ensure safety in the transportation of goods. Failure to do so can have serious legal consequences, as well as lead to accidents and damage to property and personal injury. Using the right tools and techniques, and ensuring that all parties involved fulfill their responsibilities, helps to prevent accidents and damage.

Proper training, periodic inspections and the implementation of protocols and procedures are key measures to ensure proper cargo lashing. Compliance with cargo lashing obligations is essential to ensure safe and efficient transportation.

Who is responsible for truck loading and stowage?

responsable de la carga y la estiba en camion

The transport of goods by road is an essential activity in international trade, as it enables the efficient distribution of goods around the world. In this sense, the loading and stowage of goods on trucks plays a fundamental role in ensuring the safety of the cargo, the protection of goods and the correct operation of the transport.

The person responsible for loading and stowage by truck may vary depending on the context, but in general, it falls on the shipper and the consignee. This was ratified in the Law on the Contract of Land Transport of Goods in Spain, Royal Decree-Law 3/2022, which establishes the rules and conditions for the transport of goods by road, amending Law 15/2009.

The role of the carrier in truck loading and stowage

The carrier, with the modification of the Law, is no longer in charge of ensuring that the cargo is correctly stowed and conditioned in the truck, in accordance with the applicable safety standards and regulations. This involves supervising the loading process, ensuring that the cargo is distributed in a balanced and safe manner, and that it is properly secured to prevent movement during transport.

In addition, the shipper must take into account the characteristics of the goods, such as their weight, fragility or dangerousness, in order to take the necessary measures to ensure their safe transport. He must also have the proper equipment for loading and stowage, such as ramps, lifts, lashing straps and safety equipment, and the company must adequately train its workers on loading and stowage techniques.

Carrier’s legal responsibilities for loading and stowage of goods

The carrier has a number of legal responsibilities in relation to the loading and stowage of goods. First, he must comply with applicable national and international regulations.

It must also have the corresponding insurance to cover any eventuality during the transport of the goods, and take into account the laws and international agreements on the carrier’s liability in case of loss, damage or delay in the delivery of the goods.

Stowage slips, and in our context European stowage slips, are essential to comply with everything necessary to comply.

Voidfillers

Niupack

Lashing

ProStrap

Inflatable Bags

ProBag

How to ensure proper truck loading and stowage

There are several measures that can be taken by the carrier and the shipper to ensure proper truck loading and stowage. First of all, it is essential to carry out proper load planning, taking into account the characteristics of the goods, weight and volume, load securing methods and applicable regulations. It is also advisable to use information and load management systems to ensure efficient control of the process.

On the other hand, it is important to use the right equipment and materials, such as pallets, containers, truck corner protectors, tie-downs, inflatable bags, materials for protection of goods with padding, tarpaulins and nets, to secure and protect the cargo during transport. In addition, proper stowage techniques should be used, such as balanced weight distribution on the truck, correct positioning of goods and the use of appropriate securing systems.

In addition, in the case of dangerous goods, systems such as Tygard are essential for safety in these cases.

The importance of safe loading and stowage in trucks

Safety is a fundamental aspect of truck loading and stowage. Improperly stowed or inadequately secured cargo can cause damage to the goods and to third parties, as well as accidents on the road. Therefore, the various parties must ensure that they comply with safety regulations and have the necessary equipment to ensure the safety of the cargo.

In addition, as mentioned above, it is important to adequately train workers on proper loading and stowage techniques, as well as on the safety procedures to be followed during the process. Periodic inspections of vehicles and loading and stowage equipment should also be carried out, and proper maintenance should be performed to ensure their correct operation.

In the recent post How to secure cargo on a truck, you will find a lot of additional information on this subject.

Cooperation between the carrier and the shipper in the proper loading and stowage of goods

Truck loading and stowage requires effective cooperation between the carrier and the shipper. Both must work together to ensure that the cargo is properly prepared and stowed in accordance with transportation needs and applicable regulations.

To this end, it is important to establish fluid communication between both parties, share relevant information on the characteristics of the goods and transport requirements, and collaborate in the planning and control of the process. In addition, it is advisable to establish clear agreements and procedures on responsibility and requirements for loading and stowage, and to carry out adequate monitoring to ensure compliance.

It is important to note that since the modification of the Law in March 2022, effective in September of the same year, the loading and unloading of goods in trucks with more than 7500 kilos will be actions for loaders and forklift drivers, except in cases such as removals, tank vehicles or transport of live animals, among other exceptions.

For more information, we recommend reading Royal Decree-Law 3/2022, of March 1, on measures to improve the sustainability of road freight transport and the functioning of the logistics chain: here.

How to secure cargo on a truck

Properly securing cargo on a truck is crucial to ensure transport safety and to comply with established regulations. Whether you are transporting goods by road in Spain or anywhere else in Europe, it is essential to follow cargo stowage and lashing regulations. Here are some key recommendations for securing cargo on a truck.

First of all, it is important to take into account the maximum weight allowed on the truck and to distribute the load evenly. The truck must not be overloaded, as this can adversely affect the stability and handling of the vehicle.

Be sure to check the load capacity of the truck and adjust the load distribution accordingly. It is also essential to ensure that the load is well balanced, both laterally and vertically.

Fastening systems

The use of proper lashing systems is essential for securing cargo on a truck. Lashing straps are the most common items used for this purpose. It must be ensured that the straps used are of high quality and in good condition. In addition, they should be checked regularly for wear or damage and replaced if necessary.

Voidfillers

Niupack

Lashing

ProStrap

Inflatable Bags

ProBag

It is essential to use load lashing systems that comply with European standards, such as EN 12195-1:2010. This standard establishes the minimum strength and safety requirements for lashing systems used in cargo transportation. Restraint systems that comply with this standard must be selected and the manufacturer’s instructions for their correct use must be followed.

Load distribution

Proper load distribution on the truck is also important. Heavy loads should be placed at the bottom and near the central axis of the truck to maintain good stability. In addition, it is recommended to use separators between the different loads to prevent them from moving during transport.

It is important to prevent cargo from shifting during the trip. Use dunnage, spacers, chocks or wedges to prevent packages and boxes from shifting. You can also use rubber anti-skid systems such as mats in the truck bed to improve friction and reduce the risk of slipping.

In addition to physically securing cargo, it is also important to comply with legal regulations related to cargo transportation. In Spain, the regulations established by the Ley de Ordenación de los Transportes Terrestres, which establishes the requirements for cargo stowage and lashing at the national level, are followed.

To secure cargo properly and avoid legal violations, it is advisable to seek advice from professionals in the fields of transport, logistics and cargo protection. Companies such as J2 offer consulting services and training on regulations and the best methods for securing cargo on a truck efficiently and safely.

In short, properly securing cargo on a truck is essential both to ensure transport safety and to comply with legal regulations. By following European cargo stowage and lashing regulations, distributing the load evenly and using appropriate securing systems, you can efficiently secure the load and reduce the risk of accidents during transport, as well as damage to the goods and items transported in the truck.