CDL General Knowledge TestTransporting Cargo SafelyHard
When securing a load of large, heavy machinery that has a high center of gravity, which of the following securement methods is most effective in preventing rollover?
- APlacing blocking only at the front and rear of the machinery.
- BEmploying direct tiedowns that pull the cargo downwards and outward from the top.
- CUsing only vertical tiedowns over the top of the machinery.
- DUsing side-to-side blocking without any tiedowns.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Employing direct tiedowns that pull the cargo downwards and outward from the top.
For high center of gravity loads, the primary concern is rollover. Direct tiedowns that pull the cargo not just downward but also outward from the top provide stability by creating a wider base of support and resisting lateral movement, thereby preventing rollover more effectively than purely vertical or end-blocking methods.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Blocking at the front and rear primarily prevents forward and backward movement, not rollover.
- C. Vertical tiedowns primarily prevent upward movement, offering limited resistance against rollover for high center of gravity loads.
- D. Side-to-side blocking helps prevent lateral movement but without tiedowns, it might not be sufficient to prevent rollover, especially for a high center of gravity load.
High Center of Gravity Securement
Securing cargo with a high center of gravity requires methods that prevent rollover by increasing stability and resisting lateral forces.
- Rollover is the primary risk for high center of gravity loads.
- Tiedowns should pull cargo downwards and outwards.
- Direct tiedowns are crucial for stability.
Memory trick: High loads need anchors pulling wide, not just from the top.