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(TLIA1001)

(Secure Cargo)

LEARNER GUIDE

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REVIEW LOG

Version Number Date Updated Details of Updates

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TABLE OF CONTENTSReview Log.....................................................................................................................................2Table of Contents...........................................................................................................................3Based on........................................................................................................................................5Application....................................................................................................................................5Pre-requisite Unit...........................................................................................................................5Competency Field..........................................................................................................................5Unit Sector.....................................................................................................................................5Introduction...................................................................................................................................6

Cargo securing..........................................................................................................................6 Work Health and Safety key factors.........................................................................................6

Daily operations............................................................................................................6Module 1 – Prepare to secure cargo/containers.............................................................................7

1.1 Prepare and maintain safe Work environments................................................................7 1.1.1 Preparation and maintenance of working areas.................................................7 1.1.2 Other things to consider......................................................................................8 1.1.3 General information requirments.......................................................................8 1.1.4 Applicable legislation and regulations.................................................................9

1.2 Unsafe work practices and equipment reporting ..............................................................9 1.2.1 Equipment safety.................................................................................................9 1.2.2 Managing fatigue.................................................................................................9

1.3 Select appropriate protective clothing, equipment and fittings .....................................10 1.3.1 Personal Protective Equipment.........................................................................10 1.3.2 Equipment and fittings for securing cargo........................................................10

1.4 Erect Formwork where there are no lashing points.........................................................10 1.5 Reading and understanding the lashing plan...................................................................11

1.5.1 Ways to secure a load........................................................................................11 1.5.2 Lashing methods................................................................................................11 1.5.3 Operational considerations...............................................................................11 1.5.4 Communication..................................................................................................11

Module 2 – Lash and unlash cargo................................................................................................12 2.1 Lashing workplace and safety requirements, and industry standards.............................12

2.1.1 Regulations for cargo restraint .........................................................................12 2.2 Identifying lashing points, and appropriate fittings and lashing equipment ..................13

2.2.1 Selecting the correct equipment.......................................................................13 2.2.2 Matching loads and lashings..............................................................................13

2.3 Securing cargo to the lashing points.................................................................................14 2.4 Securely fasten tensioners ...............................................................................................14

2.4.1 Tensioning and releasing cargo restraints.........................................................14 2.5 Lashing is completed in accordance with lashing plan.....................................................14

Module 3 – Protect cargo safely...................................................................................................15 3.1 Use regulations and workplace procedures to handle loads safely.................................15

3.1.1 Handling cargo safely.........................................................................................15 3.2 Protecting cargo ...............................................................................................................16

3.2.1 Covering and uncovering cargo.........................................................................16Module 4 – Pack and unpack cargo..............................................................................................17

4.1 Identify damaged cargo....................................................................................................17 4.2 Sorting and stacking cargo................................................................................................17 4.3 Cargo identification...........................................................................................................18

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4.3.2 Identifying signs.................................................................................................18 4.3.2 Identifying bonded and quarantined cargo.......................................................19

4.4 General considerations for unpacking a load...................................................................19 4.4.1 Suitable unloading areas....................................................................................19 4.4.2 Unloading safety precautions............................................................................19

4.4 Maintain a Tight stow of cargo.........................................................................................20 4.4.1 Packing cargo for a tight stow...........................................................................20

4.5 Complete relevant documentation..................................................................................20

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BASED ONThis course is based on the unit TLIA1001 Secure Cargo

APPLICATIONThis unit involves the skills and knowledge required to secure cargo in accordance with procedures and regulatory requirements as part of work activities within the transport and logistics industry.It includes preparing to secure cargo/containers, lashing and unlashing cargo, protecting cargo from weather, and packing and unpacking cargo. Work is performed under some supervision generally within a team environment. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

PRE-REQUISITE UNITNot applicable.

COMPETENCY FIELDA Handling Cargo/Stock‒UNIT SECTORNot applicable.

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INTRODUCTIONWelcome to TLIA1001, Secure Cargo. This unit of competency covers what you need to know to secure cargo safely. It has four modules and covers how to:

• prepare and maintain safe work environments• lash and unlash cargo• protect cargo safely• pack and unpack cargo.

Cargo, also referred to as freight, is moved around Australia using rail, road, air and sea to supply consumer demand for goods and services. Cargo is either packed into containers before being loaded onto a transport, or loaded directly onto the transport. Containers are useful for packing whole consignments into and are reusable boxes made from materials such as wood or steel. Containers are often defined as shipping containers and used for transporting long distances making it easy to directly load them from one transport to another transport method; for example, containers arriving on ships from overseas can be easily offloaded directly on to a semi-trailer.

CARGO SECURINGSecuring cargo correctly is vital for the safety of everyone including the public while cargo is in transit. Loose or shifting loads can cause accidents that may eventuate in death, equipment damage, load loss and environmental damage. Restraints such as ropes, chains and straps along with winches, hooks and tensioners are used to lash down loads securely in accordance with relevant industry and workplace regulations, standards and codes to ensure everyone’s safety in accordance with the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act.

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY KEY FACTORSAustralia’s WHS Act 2012 aims for consistent regulations and codes of practice across the country. Here are some of the key responsibilities taken directly from the Act:

• Responsibility of persons conducting a business undertaking. There is a primary duty of care, as far as reasonably practicable, requiring all persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to ensure the health and safety of their workers and to people put at risk by the nature of the business or undertaking. If this is not possible, then PCBUs are required to minimise the risk.

• Officers. Officers of the PCBU are required to exercise due diligence to ensure the organisation complies with its health and safety requirements in relation to how the business is run.

• Workers. Workers are responsible for taking reasonable care in relation to their own health and safety, and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Workers must also:

o comply, so far as they are reasonably able, with any reasonable instruction given by the PCBU to allow the PCBU to comply with WHS laws; and

o cooperate with any reasonable policy or procedure of the PCBU relating to health or safety at the workplace that has been notified to workers.

DAILY OPERATIONSWhenever you are unsure about WHS in your workplace or have concerns about it, talk to your WHS officer or your supervisor as the legislation provides for the following during daily operations:

• permits and licenses required (for example, forklift licenses and working at height or safe handling procedures for hazardous materials)

• worker input and representation in the workplace• guidelines for incident reporting• guidelines for resolving WHS issues• guidelines in relation to protection against discrimination.

Figure 1 Securing a load - example

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MODULE 1 – PREPARE TO SECURE CARGO/CONTAINERSThis module is based on:TLIA1001 Performance Criteria:Element 1 – Prepare to secure cargo/containers

1.1 Work area is prepared and maintained in accordance with national standards, safety codes and site operating procedures.1.2 Unsafe work practices and/or equipment are reported to appropriate personnel.1.3 Appropriate protective clothing, equipment and fittings are selected.1.4 Formwork is erected where no lashing points exist.1.5 Lashing plan is read and interpreted.

1.1 PREPARE AND MAINTAIN SAFE WORK ENVIRONMENTSSecuring cargo for transit can occur in a range of environments, during the day or night and you can work in large, small and medium worksites that can have limited working conditions. Sometimes you will work in exposed, open environments in all types of weather, and even have to work from great heights or even from a cage. Cargo for transport can include dangerous and hazardous goods, and goods with specific temperature requirements. In other words, securing cargo is a complex operation that can be dangerous so knowing, understanding and following safety codes, processes and procedures is of primary importance and it is everyone’s responsibility.Preparing to secure cargo and containers is the first thing you need to do before commencing packing and lashing down a load for transport. When preparing and maintaining your work areas keep the safety of yourself and others in mind. This module looks at:

• Preparation and maintenance of working areas.• Unsafe work practices and equipment reporting.• Select appropriate protective clothing, equipment and fittings.• Equipment and fittings for securing cargo.• Erect formwork procedures where there are no lashing points.• Reading and understanding the lashing plan.

1.1.1 PREPARATION AND MAINTENANCE OF WORKING AREASIt is important to prepare and maintain working areas for a number of reasons; the most important is safety as freight depots and working around trucks is a potentially dangerous environment. Things you need to know and consider:

1. National Standards: National standards and training in handling hazardous goods and the correct procedures for securing loads.

2. Codes of Practice: Codes of Practice include things like not overloading vehicles. All vehicles have maximum carrying loads.

3. Workplace Requirements: All workplaces have specific requirements, especially when related to safety, such as:

a. Airflow and ventilation. Airflow and ventilation is important when working where there are vehicle fumes, and with toxic and hazardous goods.

b. Identifying potential hazards. Identify potential hazards (for example, equipment left lying around) on the worksite and do not forget to look up to check for electrical cables.

Figure 2 – sample graphic

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c. Reporting hazards. Report hazards immediately and follow workplace procedures to rectify the hazard.

d. Workplace procedures. Depending on your organisation, these can include:i. company procedures

ii. enterprise proceduresiii. organisational proceduresiv. established procedures.

1.1.2 OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDEROther things you need to think about as you prepare to secure cargo are:

1. Administrative Duties. Keep all your paperwork together and in order, and keep paperwork for specialised loads (hazardous waste, for example) nearby.

2. General cleanliness. Keep work areas, vehicles, cargo and equipment clean and tidy avoids safety issues and ensures equipment is working and safe to use.

3. Communication. Be aware of the importance to communicate with all personnel in the area. Communications can include:

a. telephoneb. orally or signalc. two-way radio.

4. OH&S/WHS, and environmental regulations. Keep the relevant OH&S/WHS, and environmental regulations and policies and procedures for accidents, such as:

a. fumes from vehiclesb. slippery trailersc. cargo spills and breakages.

1.1.3 GENERAL INFORMATION REQUIRMENTSInformation and documents you need to understand may include:

• goods identification numbers and codes• manifests, bar codes, and container identification/serial number• Australian and international codes of practice and

regulations relevant to the securing of cargo• Australian and international regulations and codes of

practice for the handling and transport of dangerous goods and hazardous substances

• operations manuals, job specifications and induction documentation

• manufacturers specifications for equipment• workplace procedures and policies• supplier and/or client instructions• dangerous goods declarations and safety data

sheets (SDSs)/material safety data sheets (MSDSs) (where applicable)

• award, enterprise bargaining agreement, other industrial arrangements• relevant Australian standards and certification requirements• quality assurance procedures• emergency procedures.

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Figure 3 Example of a pile of documents

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1.1.4 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND REGULATIONSApplicable regulations and legislation can include the following:

• relevant codes and regulations for the securing of cargo• Australian and international regulations and codes of practice for the handling and transport of

dangerous goods and hazardous substances, including:o Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Codeo Australian Marine Orders and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Codeo International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)o Australian and International codes for transporting Explosives.

• licence, patent or copyright arrangements• water and road use and licence arrangements• export/import/quarantine/bond requirements• marine orders• relevant Australian standards and certification requirements• relevant state/territory W work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS) and

environmental protection legislation• workplace relations regulations and workers compensation regulations.

1.2 UNSAFE WORK PRACTICES AND EQUIPMENT REPORTING Why is it important to report unsafe work practices and equipment? Because it is all about safety for you and those you work with. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Safety stops and starts with you. Unsafe work practises can include:

• incorrect load for the vehicle• fatigue • incorrect lifting procedures• incorrect securing procedures.

1.2.1 EQUIPMENT SAFETYEquipment safety is also important. Unsafe equipment can mean something is broken, forklifts parked incorrectly and worn out personal protective equipment.Know your workplace reporting procedures for situations that can compromise safety, for example, report:

• breaches of workplace procedures to your supervisor• vehicle instabilities to the driver and your supervisor• workplace accidents to your supervisor• faulty equipment to the operator and for servicing.

1.2.2 MANAGING FATIGUEFatigue is a real workplace hazard and is defined as a continuous state of tiredness that accumulates over time. Fatigue contributes to accidents when the driver is affected by an inability to stay alert. It affects worker’s safety, performance and health. It also puts members of the pubic at risk on public roads. To ensure you manage the risk of fatigue, read and understand your company’s policies and procedures for managing fatigue; and manage your fitness levels suitably for work requirements.

Figure 4 Managing fatigue - example only

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1.3 SELECT APPROPRIATE PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, EQUIPMENT AND FITTINGS There are many workplace environments you may have to secure a load in, for example:

• In different weather conditions including storms and the heat of summer.• From the top of a high load.• Within limited spaces.• In the workshop.

All freight depots have hazards of some sort in the work area you need to be aware of, such as exposure to chemicals, hazardous materials and substances, and moving equipment. So you need to understand your workplace procedures for handling these hazards, and know what personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for each situation.

1.3.1 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENTBeing prepared in line with you company’s expectations allows you to work safely in difficult situations. To work safely this may require the use of PPE, and an understanding of the correct use of equipment and fittings to assist in securing cargo. All PPE and equipment must meet industry standards and can include the following:

• protective clothing (overalls)• two-way radios for communication• gloves• hardhats• safety glasses• steel capped boots• high visibility clothing (vests) in good condition• safety harness for working at heights.

1.3.2 EQUIPMENT AND FITTINGS FOR SECURING CARGOWhat equipment and fittings used to secure a load depends in the regulations in your State. Equipment and fittings for securing a load can include the following:

• Lashings, such as synthetic ropes, straps and high-tensile steel chains to stop it shifting during transport.

• Tensioners, such as a hand ratchet or winch to tighten the lashings.

• Loading racks used for packing and holding cargo.• Chocks, such as blocks or wedges of wood, to put under

the cargo to stop it shifting during transport. • Dunnage is packing used to separate cargo in the load.

1.4 ERECT FORMWORK WHERE THERE ARE NO LASHING POINTS.Lashing points are the points used to anchor the lashing and to tighten it against the load to minimise its movement during transport. Sometimes there are no lashing points, they are inconveniently situated or they are not strong enough to use so you will have to erect formwork to securely tie-down the load, such as:

• loading racks• bins• trestles• headboards• skips• side gates or curtains

Figure 5 Use appropriate PPE

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• chocks• pallets• structures built specifically for specials loads

Once the formwork is erected correctly, check the lashing plan to check the correct procedures for securing the load.

1.5 READING AND UNDERSTANDING THE LASHING PLANYou need to read and interpret the lashing plan in order to secure cargo safely. A lashing plan allows everyone involved with moving the cargo (for example, the vehicle owner and driver, the person overseeing loading, and those loading the cargo) to ensure the load meets the regulations for loading. Check the lashing plan for the following:

• The different standards for different types of cargo (for example, general freight or hazardous waste) travelling on different types of transport (for example, semi-trailer or by sea).

• What you need to secure the load including the how much and type of equipment required and the restraint ratios needed to tighten a particular load.

1.5.1 WAYS TO SECURE A LOADNow you have prepared your work area, understand about safe work practices and equipment, know the different types of PPE and equipment for securing the load, put the formwork in place if needed and read the lashing plan, you are ready to secure the load. Secure the cargo according to the method described in the lashing plan. Types of methods that can include:

• Direct restraint – is where the load is either blocked, attached or contained using tail gates, chains or a container to secure the load either through or around the load to directly secure it.

• Tie-down restraint – is the most common and effective method and the lashings used are tied down and tensioned in accordance with the load weight.

• A combination of the direct and tie-down methods.

1.5.2 LASHING METHODSThe lashing plan will also include procedures to follow for lashing the load, such as:

• How many lashings required for the load.• How to prepare to lash the load; for example, the area where the load and lashing points are on the

trailer surface.• How to lash the load; for example, vertically or on an angle and whether they are to attach or pass

through the load. • Instructions about how to position the load and the dunnage to use for specific loads

1.5.3 OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONSTo secure cargo so it remains safely in position while in transit takes a systematic approach to ensure that no-one is injured and that equipment or goods are not damaged. A systematic approach includes:

• Choosing a suitable vehicle to carry the load.• Ensuring the cargo and dunnage are located in

accordance with processes and procedures.• Using the correct restraints.• Tensioning the load correctly.• Driving appropriately.

1.5.4 COMMUNICATIONYou will need to be flexible and capable of understanding work processes be able to prioritise securing cargo over other tasks, such as:

• letting relevant staff know the deadline for securing cargo

• booking in time and space to secure the load• understanding client and supplier requests and ask

questions to clarify if not sure• complete all paperwork associated with the load.

Figure 6 Securing a load - example

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MODULE 2 – LASH AND UNLASH CARGOThis module is based on:TLIA1001 Performance Criteria:Element 2 – Lash and unlash cargo

2.1 Work is conducted in accordance with industry standards, statutory requirements, safety codes, site operating requirements and any special cargo requirements.2.2 Lashing points are identified and appropriate fittings and lashing equipment are used for each lashing point.2.3 Cargo is lashed and secured to lashing points ensuring the correct spread of lashings and that lashings are secured, attached and tensioned.2.4 Tensioners are securely fastened2.5 When unlashing, fittings are released, disconnected and removed from the cargo.2.6 Lashing equipment is placed in designated storage areas or cleared from work area.2.7 No injury to personnel or damage to machinery or cargo during lashing/unlashing operations is ensured.2.8 Lashing is completed in accordance with lashing plan.

2.1 LASHING WORKPLACE AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS, AND INDUSTRY STANDARDSThe simple rules of loading cargo are that the load must have as little movement on the vehicle as possible and cannot fall off while in transit. The restraints used to tie down a load must have the strength to meet the load requirements of each load as set out in the standards. Manufacturers mark their equipment in accordance with the standards. Standards can be updated so you need to ensure you consult the current restraint guides and standards to continually conform to load restraint standards.This module looks at:

• regulations for cargo restraint• identifying lashing points, and

appropriate fittings and lashing equipment

• securing cargo to the lashing points• securely fasten tensioners• lashing is completed in accordance

with the lashing plan.

2.1.1 REGULATIONS FOR CARGO RESTRAINT To meet the restraint requirements, each restraint needs to meet the following restraining forces individually during:

• Cornering – the restraint must be equal to 50% of the load weight to stop cargo moving sideways.• Reverse braking – the restraint must be equal to 50% of the load weight to stop cargo moving

backwards.• Forward braking – the restraint must be equal to 80% of the load weight to stop cargo moving

forwards.• Vertically – the restraint must be equal to 20% more than the load weight to stop cargo moving

vertically in relation to the transport vehicle.

Figure 7 Checking the regulations for cargo restraint - example

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2.2 IDENTIFYING LASHING POINTS, AND APPROPRIATE FITTINGS AND LASHING EQUIPMENT Equipment and vehicle manufacturers usually provide recommendations for load weights and fit suitable tie-down (lashing) points in suitable positions to enable cargo restraint. These should be either clearly labelled or colour-coded. Be aware, though, that lashing points maybe incorrectly positioned to use as lashing points, even if they are identified as suitable. Do not use these. Towing brackets can also be used as lashing points but use shackles where the brackets do not have round pins.Check your lashing plan for correct procedures before you start.

2.2.1 SELECTING THE CORRECT EQUIPMENTLearn to recognise the different equipment used for loading different types of cargo and the applicable standards for them. Before using any equipment, check whether it is fit-for-purpose and do not use it if you have concerns about its condition.Cargo restraints vary, and the following are recommended for restraining cargo:

• rope • webbing assemblies• wire rope and attachments• lashing connectors and

tensioners• chain assemblies• latches and clamps• timber• straps• packaging for between

layers• separators.

Lashing equipment needed for containers will include:

• twistlocks• pelican hooks • lashing rods (bars)• turn handles (keys)• bottle screws • bridging clamps • cones.

2.2.2 MATCHING LOADS AND LASHINGSEvery load is different and you need to assess the correct equipment to secure cargo to match the type and weight of the load:

• Light loads: tarpaulins and ropes.• Sharp loads: steel strapping and chains.• Loads easily crush or settle: webbing and ropes.• Logs: combination of webbing and chains.• Heavy objects: webbing, chains and steel straps that can be pre-tensioned and used for really heavy

cargo.

Figure 8 An example of a cargo restraint

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2.3 SECURING CARGO TO THE LASHING POINTSIt is important to use the equipment correctly to prevent damage to the cargo and equipment, and to prevent accidents. When restraining cargo, keep the following in mind:

• When using webbing restraints:o Prevent webbing from being exposed to heat, sharp edges and chemicals.o Ensure webbing is wound evenly onto the winches.

• When using lashings:o Use packing or sleeves to protect lashings where they touch the load and other lashings.o Tie down to support joints on the tie-down point on the vehicle.o Alternate the positioning of the winches on both sides of the vehicle.o Use correct knotting procedures in accordance with the lashing plan.

• When using wire ropes and winches:o Prevent exposure to sharp edges.o Ensure there are no bends in the wire rope near a splice or clamp.

• When using tensioners with chains:o Ensure the correct tensioner is used for the type of chain to be tensioned.o Check the chain before using for joint wear and tear, kinks, knots and twists.

2.4 SECURELY FASTEN TENSIONERS It is the person loading cargo and the driver’s responsibility to oversee and check the load is restrained in accordance with safety standards and workplace procedures, this includes checking the equipment used for restraint and any attachments are fit-for-purposeThere are different tensioning methods used for different restraints:

• A single or double ‘truckies’ hitch is usually used to tension ropes, with the double hitch giving double the tension.

• Winches and inline tensioners are used to tighten webbing straps. The winches slip on to rails or tracks for operation.

• Over-centre buckles and hand winches are referred to as inline tensioners and attach to the tie rails.

2.4.1 TENSIONING AND RELEASING CARGO RESTRAINTSIt is the person loading cargo and the driver’s responsibility to oversee and check the load is restrained suitably, and that all equipment is in good working order.The following are the different methods for tensioning the restraints on a load:

• Hand ratchet winches. Hand ratchet winches operate by pulling down on the handle to tighten the restraints.

• Pre-tensioned tie-downs. Pre-tensioned tie-downs are often used for chain and webbing combinations of restraints.

• Over-centre tensioners. Over-centre tensioners also known as dogs are not used to tighten short lengths of chain as they tension rate is too low.

• Turnbuckles. Turnbuckles always achieve high-tension rates on any length of chain and, when released, do not kick back.

It is the person loading cargo and the driver’s responsibility to oversee and check the load restraints are released and removed in accordance with workplace procedures to ensure personnel are not injured and equipment is not damaged during the process. Once the load in completely unpacked ensure all equipment is packed up immediately and stowed correctly on the vehicle.

2.5 LASHING IS COMPLETED IN ACCORDANCE WITH LASHING PLANFreight handling depots have lashing plans developed using computer software to calculate the lashing requirements for each, specific cargo load. These are usually different for every load and take into account special load requirements such as hazardous goods, for example. You must read this before commencing lashing or unlashing cargo as it details the team members involved in the activity and will detail restraint loads, methods and must be followed.

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MODULE 3 – PROTECT CARGO SAFELYThis module is based on:TLIA1001 Performance Criteria:Element 3 – Protect cargo from weather

3.1 Cargo is covered/uncovered safely ensuring appropriate covering and lashing, no injury to personnel or damage to cargo or equipment3.2 Work is conducted in accordance with the requirements of national standards, safety codes and site operating procedures

3.1 USE REGULATIONS AND WORKPLACE PROCEDURES TO HANDLE LOADS SAFELYAs you have learned previously, it is important, when loading cargo, to carry out all work in accordance with safety regulations, national standards and relevant workplace procedures for working with cargo. Workplace procedures will usually encompass safe lifting techniques for manual handling cargo, what to do in an emergency such as a fire, wearing the correct personal protective equipment in accordance with industry safety regulations and WHS requirements.This module covers:

• handling cargo safely• protecting cargo.

3.1.1 HANDLING CARGO SAFELYAll freight and cargo handling depots have mandatory procedures in place for safe handling of cargo to ensure personnel remain safe, and to minimise damage to the cargo and equipment. Safe handling procedures for safe cargo handling in the depot may include:

• Labelling. Labelling is important and must be legible. Labels for toxic and hazardous goods are vital, so ensure when labelling, removing or covering old labels it is clear with no chance of confusion.

• Signs. Ensure vehicles carrying dangerous goods are correctly displaying signs in accordance with regulations and workplace procedures.

• Personal protective equipment. The use of the relevant PPE in relation to the cargo being handled.

Other mandatory workplace procedures may include:• securing of all cargo to minimise movement

during transport• consistent implementation of all safety and workplace processes• use of equipment such as tarpaulins and conveyer belts.

Figure 9 Ensure signs are displayed correctly - example

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3.2 PROTECTING CARGO Protecting cargo from things, such as the weather, theft and breakages is often necessary within a freight depot. To do this, there are appropriate methods to use to cover and uncover a load safely and to prevent damage:

• Use the correct material to cover a load (tarpaulin, for example) and lashing procedures.• Ensure the safety of all personnel in the area.• Ensure all processes are followed correctly so no damage to the cargo or equipment occurs.

3.2.1 COVERING AND UNCOVERING CARGOAll covers need to be in good condition and can be used as a backup tie-down system to lash to. To cover and uncover a load you will need to know what to use:

• Tarpaulins. Use tarpaulins to cover bulk loose loads (such as sand, rubble and rubbish) that can be dislodged while in transit. Follow workplace procedures to tie tarpaulins down correctly.

• Side curtains. Draw a trailer’s side curtains in accordance with workplace procedures and manufacturer’s guidelines, to help deflect movement while in transit.

Figure 10 Protecting cargo in transit - example

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MODULE 4 – PACK AND UNPACK CARGOThis module is based on:TLIA1001 Performance Criteria:Element 4 – Pack and unpack cargo

4.1 Damaged cargo is identified and reported in accordance with enterprise procedures.4.2 Cargo is sorted and stacked prior to packing or after unpacking, ensuring the stack is in the correct location, in accordance with national standards, safety codes, and site operating procedures.4.3 Cargo is identified through the interpretation of marks or numbers.4.4 Tight stow of cargo is maintained.4.5 Cargo is handled ensuring no injury to personnel or damage to cargo or equipment.

4.1 IDENTIFY DAMAGED CARGOThere is always the chance damage occurs while packing or unpacking cargo. Accidents happen and things get broken or spilled. You should do this before unloading the cargo. Your company will have workplace procedures that covers reporting these situations that may include recording:

• A complete an inventory of the damage goods. • The cause of the damage (for example, damaged while

loading or damaged due to a road accident).• How the damage affects delivery (for example, delay

in delivery or the load collapsed).• And report the damage to the appropriate people

including your supervisor in accordance with workplace procedures.

This module covers:• sorting and stacking cargo• cargo identification• general considerations for unpacking a load• maintain a tight stow of cargo• complete relevant documentation.

4.2 SORTING AND STACKING CARGOIt is important that cargo is sorted into appropriate stacks before and after transit. Workplace procedures cover the processes for this in accordance with WHS and national standards. Before stacking a load, check your work instructions for the correct location for the stack. Cargo comes in all shapes, sizes and weight and others have special requirements such as fresh and frozen food, dangerous and hazardous goods, and fragile goods. When sorting and stacking loads you may:

• Use freezers nd refrigerators for food storage• Arrange layers of materials of equivalent shape and size• Separate hazardous and dangerous goods• Use pallets for stacks of bulk goods for easy lifting.

While sorting the cargo you can identify what the cargo is.

Figure 11 Identifying damaged cargo for reporting – graphic is a sample only

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4.3 CARGO IDENTIFICATIONYou need to understand the international standard (ISO 6346) for coding, marking and identifying international cargo also known as intermodal shipping containers. Containers are visually identified by a specific system of codes and marks that identify the owner, size, type and equipment as well as the country code. This makes up a unique serial code for each shipping container. For example:

• Owner code is three capital letters – CDF • Equipment category identifier is a choice of

one of three capital letters:o Z – trailers and chassiso J – detachable shipping container equipmento U – for all shipping containers

• Serial number – six digits specifically assigned to the container’s owner.

4.3.2 IDENTIFYING SIGNSThere are many ways of identifying freight other than using the ISO numbering system for international container freight, such as:

• Checking for signs and symbols such as ‘Keep Dry’ and ‘This Way Up’. • Checking cargo against the information in the manifest for weight and other requirements such as

refrigeration.• Reading labels on equipment to ensure it

meets the standards; for example, weight load standards for webbing straps.

• Identifying the correct procedures for handling dangerous goods.

• Identifying correct handling of the appropriate load tie-downs.

Containers can also display other signs such as emergency procedures to follow if required, emergency action codes to let response teams the correct action to take in an emergency and codes to identify they conform with safety regulations. Other marks displayed on containers may be for the Australian Code for Transport of Dangerous Goods (ADG) and International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG). Needs more work and graphics to identify these.

Figure 11 Container Codes - example

Figure 12 Example of symbols on cargo

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4.3.2 IDENTIFYING BONDED AND QUARANTINED CARGOPart of identifying cargo correctly is understanding the relevant legislation surrounding quarantine and bond regulations such as:

• Quarantine. Goods that require quarantine must be isolated for inspection and certificates to be issued to permit the delivery of the goods.

• Bonded. Bonded goods are stored in Customs-licensed areas until the duty on the goods is paid sand are released for delivery.

4.4 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR UNPACKING A LOADEven though the load was carefully packed before leaving the depot, anything can happen when it is in transit. Safety is always the primary concern of all activities in regards to freight movement. When driving, stop and check the load periodically to minimise load movement. When unloading a vehicle you need:

• an unloading area suitable • unload in accordance with all safety requirements.

4.4.1 SUITABLE UNLOADING AREASWhen you reach your destination, you will be directed to a suitable area for unloading. However, if you have an unstable load while in transit you may have to unpack and repack the load in public so you need to:

• Be aware of your surroundings and personal safety.• Try to find an area that is level.• If you do have to stop on a slope:

o Ensure the steering wheel is turned full locko Chock all the wheels.

• Turn on the parking lights.• Cordon off the area for unloading.

4.4.2 UNLOADING SAFETY PRECAUTIONSGet into the habit of taking the following safety precautions before unloading:

• Check the load by walking around the vehicle to check the restraints and the load.

• Clear the area of all people not involved with the unloading.

• Release the tension on tensioners and winches slowly. Keep an eye of the cargo for signs of moving as you do.

• Slowly open curtains, doors or loosen restraints. Again, watch for movement in the cargo.

• Start unloading from the right side of the vehicle, as the road camber tends to cause the care to shift towards the left of the vehicle.

• Ensure all equipment is in good working order and work in accordance with safety codes and workplace procedures.

• Rearrange the load if only unloading part of the load, so it meets transport regulations.• Clean up and stow all equipment.

Figure 13 Example of considering safety precautions unloading cargo

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4.4 MAINTAIN A TIGHT STOW OF CARGOAll containers, vehicles and vessels need enough space to carry cargo and cargo is packed to meet the relevant carrying-capacity for transport. Regardless, it is important to tightly pack cargo to minimise its ability to move in different areas. This is referred to as a tight stow.

4.4.1 PACKING CARGO FOR A TIGHT STOWTo pack cargo for a tight stow always follow your workplace procedures:

1. Organise the freight so it fits into the space.2. Fill any resulting spaces to with different freight to fill the space to add strength and stability to the

packed load. 3. Use wooden beams and airbag redistribute weight.4. Secure the load as you go.5. Use foam and cardboard to fill any empty spaces.6. Load using layers and spacer boards.7. Use partitions and create cargo floors.

4.5 COMPLETE RELEVANT DOCUMENTATIONMoving freight involves a lot of paperwork to conform to relevant legislation and keep track of its movement. Again, your workplace will have relevant procedures for completing documentation in regards to securing cargo, and the two key documents are:

• Manifest – a list of the cargo contains.• Stowage Plan – this identifies the cargo’s location and quantity within the load.• Other documents – such as dangerous goods documentation.

Figure 14 Example of completing relevant documentation