Check the Load Before Releasing the Straps

Controls to confirm

• Check the load first: assess its condition from a safe position before unloading or releasing restraints. Look for movement, leaning goods and damaged packaging or pallets. Confirm that the goods will remain stable when restraints are removed. If stability is uncertain, stop and keep people away while a safe method is agreed.
• Agree the unloading method: the driver, receiving site and vehicle operator should exchange load information and confirm who controls the work. Use firm, level ground, apply the vehicle brakes and use the required stabilisers. Follow an agreed sequence that maintains load and vehicle stability. Quarantine a shifted load on site and arrange safe unloading together; do not send it back onto the public road.
• Keep people out of the fall zone: establish a controlled unloading area with a safe waiting place for anyone not involved. During mechanical unloading from one side, exclude the driver and other pedestrians from the opposite side as well. Keep separation in place throughout unloading, rather than treating the far side as a safe shortcut.

Today’s action

Before today’s first delivery is unloaded, have the driver and receiving lead confirm the load’s condition, the unloading sequence and the exclusion area. Resolve any uncertainty before releasing a strap.

Source guidance

Authoritative guidance checked 24 October 2026. Apply the legal requirements and approved procedures for your location.

• HSE — Load security: stable loads, pedestrian separation and safe handling of shifted loads
• HSE — Safe driving: loading and unloading; checking stability before removing restraints and agreeing unloading arrangements