Equipment Inspection
At TarpHaus, we know that our Cargo Control equipment may be the lifeblood on our truck and trailers. In order to keep our trucks running and our livelihood moving, we must have our straps, chains, binders, etc always in working condition. This involves inspecting every piece of equipment every time you go to use it and you put it away. I know this sounds time consuming, but it may save your cargo and can save a life if your cargo comes loose while you are going down the highway at 80 mph.
Below I will briefly explain how to inspect some of the cargo control equipment on your truck.
Winch and Ratchet Straps
On anything with webbing, like winch straps and ratchet straps, you want to inspect the webbing completely for frayed edges. If there is any fraying on the edges or around the hooks or end fittings, this is cause for concern. This is a sign of extreme wear, and you need to put that strap out of service. With these straps you need to inspect the end fittings as well, whether it is a flat hook, wire hook or chain anchor. This area needs to be looked over for any signs of the metal breaking or weak points on any welded pieces. Lastly on the ratchet straps, that ratchet itself needs to be in proper working order. If any of these items are not in perfect condition, they need to be replaced and the old ones placed out of commission.
Transportation Chains
The entire length of your chain needs to be inspected for breakage or weak points. Also make sure you check your hooks for any imperfections in the metal. If you find anything wrong with any of the links like chips in the metal, stress points, or breakage; then you must take this chain out of commission immediately. A weak chain can cause extreme accidents and injuries.
Chain Binders
As with chains, chain binders need inspected on the hooks, the links for weak points, on the metal for any breakage along the links and/or hooks. Beyond that the inner workings of the binder needs to be in working order and free from debris that could hinder its ability to work properly.
Bungee Straps
These straps need to be inspected for rubber peeling, flaking or breaking apart. Also make sure the rubber is securely holding down the S hook area. If any of these issues are happening, please throw that bungee away and replace it with a new one.
This is not a comprehensive list but a starting point. If you need new equipment, please call or stop by our store and we will gladly assist you with everything you need to be safe on the road.
