If the identification label is no longer legible, the belts have cuts of more than 10 per cent of the cross section or damaged seams or fasteners, the belts must be replaced. If the tensioning element (ratchet or clamping lock) is deformed or damaged, if it shows corrosion or if the hook mouth is expanded by more than five per cent, tension straps must no longer be used. Securing the load with a faulty tension strap is considered the same as transporting unsecured loads. Penalties will apply.

Lashing straps consist of the belt and a tensioning device. Each strap for cargo securing has a label for identification and traceability. One end of the strap is fitted with a tensioning device (short end), which is used to lash the long end (long end) when securing the load. Most safety harnesses are equipped with a pressure or short-lever ratchet, but there are also long-lever ratchets and clamping locks. Not every belt has a long end: there are also single-part lashing straps for securing cargo in cars or transporters. We also supply lashing straps with end fittings as double claw hooks, flat hooks, for hooking into an airline track for box trucks or into the track with pins that is often found in transporters.

Open the ratchet lever and place the long end of the strap in the slot of the winding drum. The flat side of the ratchet must face the load. Then manually pull the strap through to the desired length. Then the belt is tightened firmly by the movement of the ratchet. This is done by moving the ratchet handle back and forth. A lashing strap is released by releasing the locking pawl and simultaneously turning the tensioning handle 180 degrees. Now the long end of the tension strap can be pulled out by hand.