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Ratchet Strap Safety
Ratchet straps are an important part of the header wagon,
and affects the safety of drivers, loads and those around
you, so it is important that they are used safely and
inspected for damage or wear each time they are used.
1. Avoid dragging ratchet straps on the ground, floor or
over abrasive surfaces.
2. When not in use protect the strap and store in a dry,
clean environment.
3. If the ratchet mechanism is damaged in any way, DO
NOT USE IT. Replace the mechanism as soon as
possible.
4. NEVER use the strap for towing purposes.
5. NEVER use the strap for lifting, lowering, or
suspending objects.
6. Do not shorten or adjust ratchet straps using methods
other than outlined in this manual.
7. Do not twist, kink or knot the ratchet strap.
8. Avoid exposing ratchet straps to damaging acids or
alkali.
9. Avoid using ratchet straps or allowing exposure to
temperatures above 194°F (90°C) or below -40°F
(-40°C).
10. Be aware of using the ratchet strap with equipment
that has edges or surfaces that could damage the
ratchet strap, use corner/ edge protectors to protect
the strap from damage.
11. Do not run / drive over ratchet straps with a vehicle or
other equipment.
12. Ratchet straps that are used outdoors regularly should
generally be permanently removed from service within
a period of 2 to 4 years.
13. Keep the ratchet mechanism clean and lubricated.
14. Visible indications of deterioration can include the
following:
•
Fading of webbing color.
•
Uneven or disoriented surface yarn of the
webbing.
•
Shortening of the ratchet strap length.
•
Reduction in elasticity and strength of the
ratchet strap material due to an exposure
to sunlight, often evident by an accelerated
abrasive damage to the surface yarn of the
ratchet strap.
•
Breakage or damage to yarn fibres, often
evident by a fuzzy appearance of the web.
•
Stiffening of the web, which can become
particularly evident when ratchet straps are
exposed to outdoor conditions without being
used.
10
Transport Safety
1. Do not tow loads more than 1.5 times the tractor / tow
vehicle weight. Towed loads that are too heavy for the
tow vehicle can cause loss of control when braking.
Consider total weight: wagon and its load.
2. Stopping distance of towed loads increase with speed,
weight and on slopes. Towed loads that are too heavy
for the tow vehicle or are towed too fast can cause
loss of control. Consider total weight: wagon and its
load.
3. To avoid component failure and maintain complete
control and stability at all times do not exceed travel
speed rating of the components: Maximum 50 km/h
(30 mph).
4. When traveling on public roads, make certain your
implement meets local, provincial, state, and national
codes. In Canada, maximum road speed for all
agricultural equipment is 40 km/h (25 mph) and must
display a SMV sign. ("Towing" on page 30)
5. Do not overload the wagon. Overloading the wagon is
dangerous and can cause injury and damage to the
implement.
6. Be sure all markers and SMV sign required by local
traffic regulations are in place, clean and working.
7. Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes and
rough, slick or muddy surfaces.
8. Be aware that four wheel steer wagon will react
differently than a two wheel steer when cornering and
or backing up.
9. Ensure the correct size / grade hitch pin is used and
secured with a lynch pin.
10. Check tires before proceeding:
•
Inflation - correct pressure
•
Tread - unusual wear, exposed cord
•
Rims - damaged or bent
•
Wheel bolts - all secure, not loose
11. Just before transport, perform a circle check to ensure
everything is safe.
12. Lighting is not required for daytime transport, however
generally lighting is required one-half hour before
sunset to one-half hour after sunrise and at any other
time when there is insufficient light or unfavourable
atmospheric conditions.
13. Safety chain
• Do not allow the chain to drag, string the safety
chain thru the chain support at the clevis.
• Do Not use the any chain support as an attaching
point
• Secure chain on the tow vehicle at the towing attach
point.
• Do Not allow more slack than necessary for
articulation.
• Replace the safety chain if one or more links or end
fittings are broken, stretched or otherwise damaged
or deformed.
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