Clarification concernant les dispositifs d'arrimage endommagés - 393.104(b)

During discussion, a 1988 Web Sling and Tiedown Assoc. study was cited that indicated a vertical cut should be treated the same as a horizontal cut. The Vehicle Committee decided to try and verify this information with WSTDA.

Luke Loy, FMCSA reported that FMCSA had completed a 2 year contract with U.S. DOT VOLPE Center to conduct cargo securement tiedown analysis. This analysis was to address 2 issues; (1) evaluate direct vs. in-direct cargo securement (literature search into other countries’ regulations/standards/testing), (2) evaluate CVSA Out-of-Service Criteria Tiedown Defect Table utilizing used and new straps, including vertical and angular cuts.

Testing resulsts were presented in subsequent meetings on some testing they had done with web straps to determine how much damage can be on a web strap and it still have a tiedown capability of at least the working load limit. They had done several different pull tests on 2, 3 and 4 inch straps, some and some with horizontal and vertical cuts. Luke asked that the industry provide him with some used straps to also be able to test for the effects of weather and sun damage in relation to the strap. Straps were supplied for further tests. However, due to lack of funding to continue the testing on webbing with UV and atmospheric exposure, the issue remained open with the hopes that new budget allocations may permit final testing.

Further research will not be funded so based on the preliminary findings, there is no basis add anything related to vertical cuts at this time. Without further data, the current chart outlined in the OOSC is reasonable and he requested that the issue be closed. If he receives further funding he will reopen a new request at that time.