Figure 7-33.—Symmetrical tie-down pattern.

Figure 7-33.—Symmetrical tie-down pattern. should be shaped to fit snugly against the cargo and should be secured to the deck of the trailer to prevent the cargo from moving. Bracing is also used to prevent movement of the cargo. Bracing is placed from the upper part of the cargo to the floor and/or walls of the cargo compartment. Because cargo loads have a tendency to shift, a common rule of thumb is to inspect the cargo and the securing devices before departing and within 25 miles after beginning a trip. Always check the cargo and securing devices as often as necessary during a trip to keep the load secured. Inspect the cargo and securing devices after you have driven for 3 hours or 150 miles and after every break taken during the trip. LOOSE MATERIAL.— Dump trucks are often used to haul loose material. Soil, aggregate, and sand are examples of cargo that is categorized as loose material. When you are operating dump trucks, be sure that no part of the load can fall off your truck when making turns. You should stop loading before it reaches the top of the side or end gate. Dirt spilled in curves and turns creates driving hazards and should be cleaned up daily. Another hazard created by loose material is a broken windshield caused by aggregate falling from dump trucks. NOTE: In some states and on some deployment locations, it is a requirement that all loose material loads carried in dump trucks must be covered. BUILDING MATERIAL.— When loading steel, lumber, or anything that must be unloaded with a forklift or crane, you should place 4 by 4 timbers or pallets under the load. This helps get forks or cables in and out from under the load RESTRAINTS.— Loads must be secure enough to prevent movement in any direction, which means movement forward, aft, vertically, and horizontially. Figure 7-34.—Chains properly hooked on the equipment and trailer tie-down eyes. 7-28