The purpose of double-deck trailers is to maximise the space in the trailer.
Due to the problems working at height entails, which make loading double-deck trailers especially problematic, operators should conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify the most practicable way of securing goods on the vehicle. For instance, it’s possible to attach netting and securing systems to the trailer roof, pull them in place over the load and secure them to the vehicle chassis from ground level. This allows the operator to secure the goods without accessing the load bed.
Carrying palletised loads on double-deck trailers
If a palletised load weighs up to 400 kilos, it’s a ‘light pallet’ load. If it weighs more than 400 kilos, it’s a ‘heavy pallet’ load. Avoid at all times using the upper deck for carrying stacked pallets or pallets that weigh more than 400 kilos.
When securing heavy pallets or stacked light laden pallets, you should use rave-to-rave lashing or a similar method.
Securing loads on the lower deck of double-deck trailers
In general, you should secure pallets that you’re transporting on the lower deck or on the swan neck of a double-deck trailer as if you were carrying them on a single-deck trailer. When you perform your risk assessment, you should be able to ascertain whether, for light goods or crushable loads, it’s practicable to use internal curtains or hanging straps on this lower deck.
Securing loads on the higher deck of double-deck trailers
On the upper deck of curtain-sided, double-deck trailers, you should stack any laden pallets singly. These pallets should weigh no more than 400 kilos. You can mitigate any risk of objects falling while unloading or working at height further by using an extra internal curtain with integral straps that are designed to hug the load on the upper deck.
Any operator or trailer manufacturer can use this. Although the recommendation is especially suitable for new trailers, it’s possible to implement it retrospectively. The benefit of this type of curtain is that it contains the pallets more effectively than mere internal straps, improving road safety and workplace safety.