A loose load isn’t just costly, it’s dangerous
Trusted by logistics and transport firms the world over, as well as professionals in countless other industries, ratchet and cam buckle straps are the go-to choice for securing loads.
When correctly maintained and used, these straps withstand daily, heavy-duty work with ease. But they’re not indestructible. A neglected strap, or one left in service for too long, will inevitably begin to wear. And when a strap fails, the consequences can be serious: damaged cargo, roadside delays, financial loss, or worse, accidents that endanger drivers and the public.
With autumn bringing wet roads, darker evenings and tougher driving conditions, now is the time to double-check your equipment. Below we’ve put together a complete guide to inspecting, securing, and replacing your straps, with practical advice that applies to everyone from individual drivers to large fleet managers.
How to inspect Ratchet & Cam Buckle Straps
Check the Label
Every strap is designed to handle a specific load. If the label showing the lashing capacity or minimum break force isn’t clear, don’t use it. Drivers need to know, beyond doubt, that a strap can withstand the forces it’s securing. Read more about strap inspection here.
Inspect the Webbing
Look carefully for fraying, cuts, worn stitching or signs of fading. Fading may look cosmetic, but UV damage compromises strength. Moisture exposure can lead to mould, which is equally damaging. Any of these signs mean the strap should be retired immediately.
Inspect the Buckle
Check the ratchet or cam buckle hardware. Signs of corrosion are the clearest red flag, but also ensure the mechanism works smoothly. A stiff or jammed ratchet in the depot will only become a liability on the road.
How often should you inspect?
We recommend checks before and after every use. For large fleets, building strap inspections into wider vehicle safety checks ensures issues are spotted early, across the board.
Best Practice for Securing Loads
Tightening straps isn’t complicated, but there’s a right way and a wrong way. The difference can make or break a load.
-
Keep straps flat and never twisted. Twists weaken strength and can lead to slippage.
-
Tighten snugly but don’t overdo it. Ratchets provide huge leverage; overtightening can crush cargo or stretch webbing.
-
Use cam buckles for lighter loads. They’re quick and reliable but only suited to smaller items. Heavy freight requires ratchets every time.
-
Check anchors. Tension is wasted if straps are fixed to weak or unsuitable points.
See our guide to using ratchet straps on lorries.
Knowing When to Replace
One of the most common, and costly mistakes in logistics is running straps past their useful life. UK regulations are clear: all ratchet straps must comply with EN 12195-2 and meet PUWER requirements. That means they need to be identifiable, fit for purpose, and regularly checked.
If a strap shows signs of wear, corrosion, missing labels, or fading, it’s time to replace it. For fleet managers, rotating stock and removing questionable straps from circulation saves far more than it costs. Read our guide on safety standards here.
Storage & Maintenance
A strap that’s looked after properly will last significantly longer.
-
Store them in dry, shaded conditions – avoid UV and moisture.
-
Disassemble straps for storage to prevent unnecessary stretching.
-
Use wear sleeves to protect against friction.
-
Keep mechanisms lubricated but avoid contaminating the webbing.
Simple care routines reduce replacement costs and ensure straps are always ready for use. Our maintenance tips guide explains more.
Laat een reactie achter