Truck Driver Killed by his load 4-22-16

Why wouldn't the 1/2" chains count toward the total WLL and when did an unsecured load ticket become big?

 

I don't hook chains to my frame, it's aluminum and to thick for the hooks. Also don't hook to my combos frame. 1st it would be stupid to require 1/2 inch chains and then not count towards the WLL. 2d they can be secured safely using 3/8 or 5/16 chains and the approved and rated tie down points on the trailer. Not like was posted by the o/p, Without making small cuts from chain hooks Into the main beam off the trailer. Sure in sure it doesn't weeken it doing it occasionally but repeatedly in the same spot where the main beam flexes could become a problem. I also don't like scuffing the paint on the frame. Opens the door for rust and corrosion. Also not sure what long term effect it could have pulling the main beam out sideways. Maybe none but I'm not a structural engineer. If it were feasible might could get manufacturer to add on securement point to be included with coil package.

 

I was cleaning up something similar in MI a few months ago. I was sent to check why traffic was stopped in rush hour and found a flatbed with 3 hi-los and a pill shaped metal tank the size of a small car . He said he slammed on the brakes and these tiny little straps snapped. I am still a beginner but why no chains on this equipment? He started in the center lane and when he braked the hi-los pushed the tank through the cab and the went left and right falling off both sides as it took the path of least resistance. Each of them fell onto cars into the next lanes. He stood there like he couldnt be bothered while I tried to move the equipment and open even one lane.

 

Same reason for every "accident" like that. Laziness, ignorance, arrogance.

 

Ok I might be a little lost, on a step/flat a half inch chain is no better than a 3/8, the stake pockets aren't rated as high as the WLL of the 3/8 chain so 1/2" is pointless. Second are you suggesting there should be stiff fines are saying there are?

 

What get's me about the pipe deal is that the inner portions are not in direct contact with the securement.
Ever offer someone a cigarette from a new pack by "flipping" the pack? The one's in the center always come out, while the one's touching the box stay put.

What I don't like about the coils...aside from the fact that they are a Giant Steel Wheel.... is that the coil has leverage against the chain (looks like quite a bit). It's basically a big lever if it's trying to roll forward... a big lever trying to pry your chains apart (or the trailer) with a much greater force than the weight of the coil itself. My rigging experience tells me it's amplified several times.
The contact point of the coil to the trailer is the fulcrum, and because it's circular, the entire weight of coil acts on the "lever". Looks like maybe a 2-1 ratio, so you'd need 90klbs of securement rating to really be safe.

 

I drew it roughly... notice the mechanical advantage.
The red dot is the chain attachment point.