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Ratchet Strap Use and Storage Safety

Safety Toolbox Talk Webmaster
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Ratchet straps are an important part of the transportation industry as well as the safety of drivers, loads and those around you.

As such it is important that they are inspected for damage each time they are used. It is also important to use them and store them to prevent such damage to begin with.

Today we’ll look at tips for keeping your ratchet straps in good condition.

Things NOT to do with a ratchet strap:

Bear in mind also that water absorption can decrease a nylon ratchet strap's strength by as much as 10–15% (its strength returns when the ratchet strap dries completely).

Other environmental factors such as an exposure to sunlight, dirt or gritty-type matter and cyclical changes in temperature and humidity, can result in an accelerated deterioration of ratchet straps. The rate of this deterioration will vary with the level of exposure to these conditions and with the thickness of the ratchet strap webbing.

Ratchet straps that are used outdoors regularly should generally be permanently removed from service within a period of 2 to 4 years. All ratchet straps that are exposed to these conditions should be highly scrutinized during their inspections.

Visible indications of such deterioration can include the following:

In order to prevent damage to ratchet straps, they should be stored in a cool, dry and dark location. Ratchet straps should also be stored in an area free from environmental or mechanical sources of damage, such as: weld spatter, splinters from grinding or machining, heat sources, chemical exposure, etc.

These are handy tools but only if they truly secure the load properly. Ensure you treat and store them accordingly. Your life may depend on it.


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