Before each journey, it must be ensured that the cargo securing on the vehicle is designed in such a way that the body can also accommodate the permissible load. Furthermore, accessories such as brake wedges, slip mats and tensioning boards as well as sufficient tension straps are practically indispensable for securing the cargo.
Even if the cargo securing on the vehicle has already been carried out on site by the freight forwarder, the vehicle driver is always responsible for the cargo securing during the journey and is the first point of contact in the event of a check. If deficiencies are found that could possibly endanger safety, the driver is responsible and must rectify them immediately. In this case, brake wedges are an especially essential accessory.
Increased inspections by the authorities in this context have already produced some very alarming results. Some trucks even had to be immobilised. Often this is not even due to the technology, but simply to insufficient basic equipment for securing cargo on the truck.
At least two brake wedges are needed for each tractor, along with two additional wheel chocks for each trailer or semitrailer. Depending on the size of the tractor and its trailer, brake wedges must be adapted to the tyre radius. One high-visibility vest per vehicle driver and passenger is part of the basic cargo securing equipment to ensure driver and road safety. Two warning lights and/or warning triangles and a first-aid kit are also compulsory.
For transport of dangerous goods or liquids, the ADR rule applies (equipment / protective goggles / eye wash bottle) as well as respirator and/or face mask and full body suit. A hand lamp, acid-proof boots and two fire extinguishers, each with a capacity of six kilograms, sealed and with valid approval, are also part of this special equipment. Broom, shovel, insulating blanket and collection bin are compulsory.
The purpose of brake wedges for cargo securing is that the stable, almost triangular blocks block the wheels of parked trucks and/or their trailers and thus reliably secure them against rolling away. This is also highly important for road safety. As the legislator considers this type of cargo securing to be extremely important, brake wedges are included in Germany’s road traffic regulations (StVZO). According to section 41 StVZO, motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of more than four tonnes and two-axle trailers with a gross vehicle weight of more than 750 kilograms must be equipped with at least one brake wedge.
