TLID2004A

LOAD AND UNLOAD GOODS/CARGO

LEARNER GUIDE
Module One Load And Unload Goods/Cargo

TLID2004A LOAD AND UNLOAD GOODS/CARGO
Module One Load And Unload Goods/Cargo
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Review Log ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Module Basis .................................................................................................................................. 4
1.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 5
1.2 Load And Unload Goods/Cargo ............................................................................................. 6
1.2.1 Considerations For Loading And Unloading .......................................................................................... 6
1.2.1.1 Personal Protective Equipment ..................................................................................................... 7
1.2.1.2 Site Layout And Obstacles ............................................................................................................ 8
1.2.1.3 Housekeeping Standards And Procedures ................................................................................... 9
1.2.2 Preparation And Procedures ............................................................................................................... 10
1.2.3 Communication And Working With Others .......................................................................................... 12
1.2.3.1 Collaboration And Adapting To Differences ................................................................................ 13
1.3 Identify Load Characteristics ................................................................................................ 14
1.3.1 Load Characteristics ............................................................................................................................ 15
1.3.2 Interpreting Goods And Cargo Information ......................................................................................... 16
1.4 Identify Dangerous Or Hazardous Goods ........................................................................... 17
1.4.1 Australian Dangerous Goods Code ..................................................................................................... 18
1.4.2 Australian And International Regulations ............................................................................................ 19
1.4.3 Other Coding And Markings ................................................................................................................ 20
1.5 Pack/Unpack The Load .......................................................................................................... 21
1.6 Load The Goods/Cargo ......................................................................................................... 22
1.6.1 Scheduling And Contingency Planning ............................................................................................... 23
1.6.1.1 Contingency Plans And Actions .................................................................................................. 24
1.6.2 Loading Goods And Cargo .................................................................................................................. 25
1.6.2.1 Legislation And OHS/WHS Procedures ...................................................................................... 25
Harmonisation of Work Health & Safety Legislation ........................................................................... 26
Key Elements Of The Work Health & Safety Legislation .................................................................... 27
1.6.2.2 Mass And Loading Regulations ................................................................................................... 28
1.6.2.3 Loading And Centre Of Mass ...................................................................................................... 29
1.6.3 Problems When Loading ..................................................................................................................... 30
1.6.3.1 Resolving Problems ..................................................................................................................... 31
1.6.4 Risk Management In Loading Or Unloading ....................................................................................... 32
1.6.4.1 Load And Supply Chain Security ................................................................................................. 35
1.7 Load With Lifting Aids And Appliances ............................................................................... 37
1.8 Unload Safely And Efficiently ............................................................................................... 39
1.8.1 Places For Unloading .......................................................................................................................... 40
1.8.2 Preparing To Unload ........................................................................................................................... 40
1.8.3 Unloading ............................................................................................................................................ 41
1.9 Identify Goods Requiring Special Handling ........................................................................ 42
1.10 Restack Relocated Material ................................................................................................ 43
Appendix 1A Work Health & Safety Common Terms And Definitions ................................. 45

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REVIEW LOG
Version Number Date Updated Details of Updates
Version 4H
Released
November, 2012













MODULE BASIS
This module is based on the unit of competency TLID2004A Load And Unload Goods/Cargo:


Element 1 Load and unload
goods/cargo.
1.1 Load characteristics are identified and taken into account when determining
appropriate loading and unloading procedures.
1.2 Dangerous or hazardous goods are identified and handled in accordance with the
Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code and other relevant regulations/permit
requirements.
1.3 Load is packed/unpacked to make safe and effective use of available spaces.
1.4 Goods/cargo are loaded in accordance with relevant mass and loading regulations
and workplace procedures.
1.5 Lifting aids and appliances are selected and used to aid loading procedures in
compliance with workplace procedures and safety legislation.
1.6 Unloading activities are conducted in a safe and efficient manner taking into
account suitable locations, stowage, safe use of equipment and the balance of the
remaining load.
1.7 Goods requiring special handling and/or documentation are identified and
appropriate procedures followed
1.8 Relocated material is restacked appropriate for the transport method, safe height,
weight loading, size and crushability of the goods.

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1.1 INTRODUCTION
Welcome to this unit of competency, TLID2004A: Load And Unload Goods/Cargo.

The safe loading and unloading of goods is very important in preventing injury to people and damage to
property. There are economic benefits for everyone if a load arrives at its destination intact and without
damage.







This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to
load and unload goods and cargo, including loading
and unloading goods, securing and protecting a load,
and completing all required documentation.

It includes 2 modules:

Load and unload goods/cargo.

Secure and protect the load and complete
documentation.

Licencing, legislative, regulatory or certification
requirements are applicable to this unit.

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1.2 LOAD AND UNLOAD GOODS/CARGO
The principles of loading and unloading goods or cargo apply to loads of all sizes and types. This module
includes procedures and requirements for:

Identifying load characteristics.

Identifying and handling dangerous or
hazardous goods.

Packing and unpacking loads.

Loading goods/cargo.

Selecting lifting aids/appliances.

Unloading goods/cargo.

Identifying goods requiring special handling
and/or documentation.

Restacking relocated material.





1.2.1 CONSIDERATIONS FOR LOADING AND UNLOADING

Loading and unloading goods/cargo and the work activities
associated with it are carried out under certain conditions.

Based on these conditions, it is important that you are aware
of and can apply the following considerations to the work:

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Site layout and obstacles.

Housekeeping standards.

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1.2.1.1 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

You need to identify and use the required personal protective
equipment (PPE) in accordance with industry and Occupational
Health & Safety/Work Health & Safety (OHS/WHS) standards.
This PPE may include:

Gloves.

Safety headwear and footwear.

Safety glasses.

Two-way radios.

High-visibility clothing.








It is important to check that the PPE you are using fits
you correctly and conforms to OHS/WHS and industry
requirements.

Always wear the available PPE that is going to protect
you from the hazards and risks posed on the site and
in your role.

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1.2.1.2 SITE LAYOUT AND OBSTACLES

Loading and unloading may be conducted in:

Various locations.

Controlled or open environments.

Restricted spaces.

Exposed conditions.







For this reason, you need to be aware of the layout of
the site and obstacles, for example:

When a vehicle is being loaded or unloaded
by forklift, make sure the site area is clear of
obstructions and that you are always in full
view of the forklift driver. Forklift operations
are a major cause of injury to drivers and
loaders. Do not approach a forklift whilst it is
moving.

Check there is adequate ventilation for
vehicle fumes, toxic goods, etc.





When throwing lashings over the vehicle, be
careful that no one is standing on the other
side, i.e. be aware of the location of
colleagues.

Before throwing the lashings, check there are
no electric cables or obstructions/obstacles
above the vehicle that could come into
contact with the lashings.

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1.2.1.3 HOUSEKEEPING STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES

You need to be mindful of housekeeping standards and
procedures required in the workplace. This includes:

General tidiness and cleanliness of the site area,
vehicle, load and restraints, e.g. removal and
storage of unwanted packaging or dunnage away
from the site.

Administration and presentation of paperwork,
e.g. items relating to a load are kept together and
in order.

The whereabouts and location of
personnel/workers on the job, e.g. do not stand
or work on one side of a vehicle if the other side
is being loaded or unloaded. Part of the load may
be pushed onto you during the loading or
unloading operations.

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1.2.2 PREPARATION AND PROCEDURES

Loading and unloading cargo requires a methodical and systematic approach. You need to work with
required attention to detail, without injury to yourself or others, or damage to goods or equipment.






In general, a systematic approach to loading and
unloading means you should:

Choose a suitable vehicle.

Position the load and dunnage correctly.

Use suitable restraint equipment.

Provide adequate load restraint as outlined in
the National Load Restraint Guide.

Use appropriate driving methods.

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You need to be aware of workplace procedures and policies for the loading and unloading of goods/cargo,
including:

Emergency procedures, e.g. accidents during
loading and unloading.

Company policies and procedures, e.g. safe lifting,
hours of operation, trained staff.

Client/supplier policies and procedures, e.g. delivery
times for loading and unloading, breakages caused
during loading and unloading.

Quality assurance procedures, e.g. errors when
handling dangerous goods, incomplete paperwork.







When loading and unloading cargo you will be required to
interpret and follow operational instructions and prioritise
your work. This may involve:

Understanding and clarifying instructions from the
supplier and/or client.

Giving precedence to loading and unloading
activities over other tasks.

Gaining commitment from individuals and
supervisors.

Setting aside the time and place for the loading and
unloading to occur.

Completing associated paperwork and
documentation.

Communicating deadlines for the goods/cargo to be
loaded and unloaded.

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1.2.3 COMMUNICATION AND WORKING WITH OTHERS

You need to communicate effectively with others when
loading and unloading goods and cargo. This may involve:

Oral communication.

Written communication.

Non-verbal communication such as body language
and signals.






Some examples of communication when loading and unloading goods and cargo include:

Explaining your preference for a vehicle
location or loading techniques to be used.

Asking questions of work colleagues and
clarifying instructions.

Submitting documentation related to loading
and unloading procedures to relevant
personnel/workers.

Directing lifting aids with signals when loading
or unloading.



You will generally be required to operate electronic
communication equipment in line with organisational and site
protocols. Communication in the work area may be via:

Phone.

Electronic data interchange.

Fax.

Email.

Internet.

Radio.

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1.2.3.1 COLLABORATION AND ADAPTING TO DIFFERENCES

You need to work collaboratively with others when
loading and unloading goods and cargo. This could
involve:

Identifying and agreeing on roles and
responsibilities, e.g. who will operate the
vehicle jib crane whilst the other person is
checking the load.

Liaising with the driver of the vehicle to clarify
details of the load, damage, etc.






When collaborating with other people, you may also
need to adapt appropriately to cultural differences in
the workplace, including modes of behaviour and
interactions with others. This may include:

Use of greetings, salutations, seniority.

Recognising colleagues from non-English
speaking backgrounds and how they may
interpret loading/unloading procedures and
details.

Recognising cultural differences in giving
instructions, e.g. using hand gestures or
expressions that could have different
meanings or may be considered vulgar.

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1.3 IDENTIFY LOAD CHARACTERISTICS
General freight can be comprised of a large number of small items, e.g. boxes, cartons, crates, bags,
drums and plastic containers. It can also often include large items such as pallets, steel coils and
machinery.

A load is a number of separate items bound together to form a single item of load, also known as unitised
load. The benefit of a load is that it is easier to handle and restrain.



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1.3.1 LOAD CHARACTERISTICS

When working with different types of loads you will be required to determine the appropriate loading and
unloading procedures. To do this you will need to identify and take into account the load characteristics.

The characteristics and considerations of a load can vary considerably and include:

Characteristic Consideration
Size Length, width, height.
Shape Square, round, irregular.
Special Requirements Dangerous goods, fragile items.
Packaged or Unpackaged Multiple layers or stacks of material, or bundles of individual lengths.
Labelled or Unlabelled Identification, ownership, warnings.
Palleted or Unpalleted On a portable platform, or loose.

Dunnage may also be associated with the load. Dunnage is packing used to separate loads, typically a
length of square-shaped or rectangular-shaped timber.






You need to estimate the size, shape and special
requirements of loads and decide how to deal with them.
This involves:

Getting an approximate idea or making rough
calculations on the size of a load.

Ascertaining the number of loads.

Assessing any special requirements based on
visual checks and load characteristics.

Taking appropriate action, e.g. working out
where loads go, how loads might be lifted, what
loads need to be tied.

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1.3.2 INTERPRETING GOODS AND CARGO INFORMATION

Each load may have several different types of information associated with it. It is important to read and
interpret instructions, procedures, information, signs and labels relevant to the loading and unloading of
goods and cargo.




Types of information include:



When identifying load characteristics, special consideration needs to be given to dangerous or hazardous
goods.

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1.4 IDENTIFY DANGEROUS OR HAZARDOUS
GOODS
Dangerous or hazardous goods can be presented for loading or unloading as packages, unit loads or bulk
loads.

There can be extra risks for safety and the environment during the transport of such goods.

You need to identify and handle dangerous or hazardous goods in accordance with the Australian
Dangerous Goods (ADG) code and other relevant regulations or permit requirements.

Labels, symbols, associated paperwork, permits, use of specialised vehicles, bar codes, and other goods
and container identifiers can identify dangerous or hazardous goods.



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1.4.1 AUSTRALIAN DANGEROUS GOODS CODE

The Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) code sets out the requirements for transporting dangerous good
by road or rail. These and other regulations/permit requirements aim to reduce the risk of personal injury,
property damage and environmental harm.

The provisions for handling dangerous goods
include:

Protection of goods and staff during loading
and unloading.

Stowage, e.g. for moving the goods on the
vehicle or within a container.

Packing/stacking, e.g. stable, without empty
spaces between items.

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1.4.2 AUSTRALIAN AND INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS

You need to work within Australian and international regulations and codes of practice for the handling and
transport of dangerous goods and hazardous substances. These codes and regulations include:

Australian and International Dangerous Goods
codes.

Australian Marine Orders and the International
Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) code.

International Air Transport Association (IATA)
regulations for the carriage of dangerous goods
by air.

Australian and International Explosives codes.






The provisions for handling and transport of these goods
include:

Use of dunnage or restraints in conjunction with
dangerous goods.

Mandatory securing, e.g. to prevent goods from
being displaced during transit.

Use of labels on goods, e.g. class labels for toxic
and corrosive substances, legibility of labels,
removal or masking of irrelevant dangerous
goods labels and instructions on a load unit.

Use of signage on vehicles, e.g. dangerous
goods placards.

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1.4.3 OTHER CODING AND MARKINGS

Other information displayed on containers and goods may include:

Coding, e.g. to prove that the item has been
codified according to safety rules, Emergency
Action code for action to take as a first
responder should goods become involved in
an accident.

ADG and IMDG markings, e.g. for advice on
attachment points, container capacity.

Emergency information, e.g. emergency
responses, warnings, what to do in the event
of fire.



Upon identification of any containers and goods coding, ADG
and IMDG markings and, where applicable, emergency
information panels, you need to take the appropriate action.
This may include:

Conducting safety awareness programs.

Communicating information to drivers, clients,
suppliers.

Training staff in the handling of containers.

Wearing additional PPE, e.g. goggles.

Having identified your dangerous and hazardous goods, you
are ready to work with the load, utilising all possible space.

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1.5 PACK/UNPACK THE LOAD
A vehicle must have adequate load-carrying capacity and sufficient space for a load. A tightly packed load
is less likely to move than one with spaces between parts of the load. You need to pack/unpack the load to
make safe and effective use of available spaces.

You can organise different goods for the best fit from a manifest/list of goods, as applicable.





Empty spaces resulting from the load units being of
different shapes and sizes must generally be filled to
provide sufficient support and stability for the load.
This can mean:

Using webbing nets as barriers to divide
the load space into compartments.

Using spacer boards between cargo layers.

Using support materials, e.g. foam, bubble
wrap, padding, cardboard.

Once the goods/cargo are packed and ready, you can proceed to load them.

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1.6 LOAD THE GOODS/CARGO
Your loading and unloading procedures must be conducted according to a planned schedule.



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1.6.1 SCHEDULING AND CONTINGENCY PLANNING

A planned schedule for loading and unloading goods/cargo is
a program of instructions and work activities to be carried out
within specific timelines. The schedule should include:

What items need to be loaded, e.g. pallets versus
individual items.

When items are to be loaded, e.g. the sequence
shown on the run sheet, a document outlining the
order in which the goods/cargo are to be
dropped/picked up.

Who carries out loading and unloading activities, e.g.
driver and co-driver, loaders.

How loading/unloading is carried out, e.g. use of
lifting appliances, forklifts, dunnage, or following a
distribution plan.








You need to monitor your work activities in line with
the planned schedule. When unplanned events occur,
however, you should follow the plans for dealing with
contingencies in your workplace.

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1.6.1.1 CONTINGENCY PLANS AND ACTIONS

A contingency is an event that may occur, but that is
not likely or intended. The possibility of contingencies
must, however be prepared for.

You need to implement contingency plans for
unexpected situations that may occur when loading
and unloading goods and cargo, for example:

A load is damaged during loading. A
replacement load is then required, meaning
delivery will be delayed.

The forklift breaks down during unloading and
the service technician is rostered off.




You may also need to modify your activities depending
on the differing environments, operational
contingencies and risk situations that arise during your
work.

Alternative procedures need to be identified that are
not part of your pre-planned work schedule.












If a situation arises, you may need to make a
judgement about the best, safest and most efficient
action to take. This could involve:

Sourcing another service technician to deal
with the forklift breakdown.

Hiring another vehicle or obtaining a trailer to
replace a vehicle that is delayed in loading.

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1.6.2 LOADING GOODS AND CARGO

Goods/cargo must be loaded safely, either manually or
with the aid of lifting equipment and appliances.

When loading goods/cargo you must follow relevant
OHS/WHS procedures, mass and loading regulations,
and workplace procedures.
















1.6.2.1 LEGISLATION AND OHS/WHS PROCEDURES

You need to be aware of the legislative and OHS/WHS procedures and guidelines concerning the lifting
and movement of loads including:

Relevant Australian standards and regulations,
including state/territory mass and loading
regulations.

Codes of practice, e.g. the national standards
for manual handling, industry safety code.

National Load Restraint Guide.

Material safety data sheets.

Manufacturers specifications for lifting
equipment/appliances.

Ensure that you are familiar with the requirements contained in these documents, and can apply them to
your loading tasks.

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Harmonisation of Work Health & Safety Legislation

In response to industry calls for greater national consistency,
the Commonwealth, states and territories have agreed to
implement nationally harmonised Work Health & Safety
(WHS) legislation to commence on 1 January 2012.

While not all states and territories have actually implemented
the model WHS legislation as of the start of 2012, it is
important to be aware of these changes, as all states and
territories will eventually implement them.






Harmonisation aims to develop consistent, reasonable and effective safety standards and protections for
all Australian workers through uniform WHS laws, regulations and codes of practice.



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Key Elements Of The Work Health & Safety Legislation

The following key elements of the WHS legislation will impact the way you do your job, and the
responsibilities of your workplace:




The legislation also outlines requirements for:

The reporting requirements for notifiable incidents.

Licences, permits and registrations (e.g. for
persons engaged in high risk work or users of
certain plant or substances).

Provision for worker consultation, participation and
representation at the workplace.

Provision for the resolution of health and safety
issues.

Protection against discrimination.



Many specific details relating to WHS will be negotiated within the
workplace in accordance with the legislation.

It is important that you speak with your Health and Safety
Representative or supervisor for more information on how these
elements will effect your day-to-day operations, or if you have any
concerns relating to health and safety.

A list of common WHS terms and their definitions can be found in
Appendix 1A.

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1.6.2.2 MASS AND LOADING REGULATIONS

Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an
object, and is commonly measured to in kilograms (kg)
or tonnes (t).

You need to load goods/cargo in accordance with the
relevant mass and loading regulations, as well as your
workplace procedures.






Mass and loading regulations require that:

A load on a vehicle must not be placed in a
way that makes the vehicle unstable or
unsafe.

A load on a vehicle must be secured so that it
is unlikely to fall or be dislodged from the
vehicle.

An appropriate method must be used to
restrain the load on a vehicle.





Application of mass and loading regulations means
that:

A loaded vehicle must not exceed the
manufacturers tyre and axle load capacity,
the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) or Aggregate
Trailer Mass (ATM) and, where applicable,
Gross Combination Mass (GCM).

The carrying capacity of a vehicle (or trailer)
is its GVM (or ATM) less its Tare mass.

The legal mass limits as required by federal,
state and local government jurisdictions must
not be exceeded.

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1.6.2.3 LOADING AND CENTRE OF MASS

A load should be positioned so that its centre of mass is as low as possible and not offset to one side of the
vehicle. Positioning the load in this way will reduce the vehicles tendency to overturn when cornering.

This can be achieved by loading heavy objects first and placing them close to the centre-line of the vehicle.



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1.6.3 PROBLEMS WHEN LOADING

Problems that may arise when loading goods and cargo may include:






Problems that may relate to regulatory requirements
and workplace procedures could include:

Load position.

Load stability, i.e. unstable loads.

Use of dunnage.

Requirements for safe transport of
dangerous goods.

Requirements for restraint.

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1.6.3.1 RESOLVING PROBLEMS

Action that can be taken to prevent or resolve problems with
loading may include:

Making sure that a vehicles load space and loading
deck are suitable for the type and size of the load.

Checking the weight of the load to be carried.

Checking the positioning of the load within the
vehicle.

Considering the positioning of the load after partially
loading or unloading the vehicle.

Positioning the load evenly across the vehicle.

Providing extra restraints for tall loads.






You need to promptly report and/or rectify any identified problems that may arise when loading and
unloading goods and cargo, in accordance with regulatory requirements and workplace procedures. This
may involve:

Reporting to a supplier, client, management staff, the driver, freight company or government
regulatory authorities.

Rectifying the situation by accessing special equipment, e.g. forklift, better arranging of the load,
or using alternative restraint methods.



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1.6.4 RISK MANAGEMENT IN LOADING OR UNLOADING

Risk management is the process of reducing or managing the risks
when working with a hazard or in a hazardous situation and should
take into consideration the context of the organisation and worksite.

Risk management must be conducted in accordance with:

Legislative, organisational and site
requirements/procedures, including OHS/WHS.

Australian Standards (AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009).

Codes of Practice.

Employment and workplace relations legislation.

Equal employment opportunity and disability legislation.



Risk management is made up of the following stages:



Consultation and communicating with others and monitoring and review should be planned for and carried
out at every stage of the risk management process.

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A RISK is the chance of a hazard hurting you or
somebody else or causing some damage.

A HAZARD is the thing or situation that causes injury,
harm or damage.

If you can remove or at least control a HAZARD you can
reduce the RISK involved.











Part of your job is to look around to see if you can identify any
hazards and risks before you start loading and unloading
goods/cargo.

Hazards in the work area may include:

Exposure to chemicals, dangerous or hazardous
substances.

Movements of equipment, goods and materials.

Condition of restraints, e.g. stretched, broken.







Risks when loading and unloading goods/cargo can
involve:

Load position, e.g. shifted in transit, too tall.

Restraints, e.g. not working, missing parts,
worn out.

Load items, e.g. damaged due to weather,
accident.

Transit route taken, e.g. rain, hail, humidity
affecting the load.

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The load should always be packed, located and
restrained in a way that allows its safe loading and
unloading.

You will therefore need to apply precautions and other
required actions to minimise, control or eliminate any
hazards and risks that may exist during the loading
and unloading of goods and cargo.






Some appropriate precautions could include:

Releasing the tension in lashings, e.g. be
careful of any sudden uncontrolled
movement of handles, sharp steel strapping
and hooks on lashings and elastic straps.

Conducting a visual check of the load before
working with it.





Communicating with the driver, client,
supplier as per their observations.

Reviewing your workplace chemical handling
procedures before handling dangerous
goods.







Opening doors, gates, sides and side
curtains and when removing lashings and
tarpaulins, e.g. take care of loads that may
have shifted during a journey which can
dislodge and cause injury.

Reading and interpreting signs, symbols,
documentation.

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1.6.4.1 LOAD AND SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY

Supply chain security refers to efforts to enhance the security of the transport and logistics systems for
cargo. You need to be aware of security requirements when loading and unloading vehicles and in
particular the recognition, isolation and reporting of suspicious cargo and goods.



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Suspicious cargo can be recognised by many factors
including:

Paperwork is missing, unsigned, or incomplete.

The load contains unidentified items, more
items than those listed on the manifest or other
paperwork, or items are heavier than the
recorded weight.

Load security tags are missing, doors are
unlocked, container numbers are mismatched,
or tamper-proof seals are broken.






If suspicious cargo is identified, you need to follow
security requirements for the situation, which may
include the following actions:

Isolate the vehicle and/or load.

Inspect the load.

Confirm the credentials of the driver/operator.

Validate the contents of the cargo being
shipped.

Complete a report with evidence.

Report your findings to your supervisor, the
client/supplier, and appropriate authorities.

Loading operations may be carried out manually or with the aid of lifting equipment and/or appliances.

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1.7 LOAD WITH LIFTING AIDS AND APPLIANCES
Lifting aids and appliances can assist with the safe loading of a vehicle or trailer. Your selection and use of
this equipment must comply with workplace procedures and OHS/WHS legislation. This includes wearing
PPE as required by industry and OHS/WHS standards.

Selecting a lifting aid involves:

Assessing the situation, including the weight, shape and size of the vehicle and the load.

Choosing the most appropriate aid for the load, e.g. forklift, vehicle-mounted crane, skip container
with a lift arm, or cargo nets.



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Using a lifting aid involves:



While carrying out your work activities you may need to operate and adapt to differences in cargo, load
types, restraining devices, equipment and appliances.





You should always follow standard operating
procedures when adapting your technique or
approach to certain tasks, such as:

Handling cargo of different types and
substances use guidelines for touching
infectious substances.

Using equipment of different makes and
models operate an unfamiliar forklift as per
the manufacturers handbook.

You will also need to consider safe and efficient
methods of unloading goods and cargo.

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1.8 UNLOAD SAFELY AND EFFICIENTLY
When unloading a vehicle you must always think of safety.

If the vehicle has travelled any distance with the load you may find that it is not as secure as when you last
checked it and some items might have shifted.

You need to conduct unloading activities in a safe and efficient manner, taking into account suitable
locations, stowage, safe use of equipment and the balance of the remaining load.



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1.8.1 PLACES FOR UNLOADING

You should find a suitable place for unloading. Locations
can range from designated and controlled areas with
bays, to open areas with unsealed surfaces, and public
roads. You will need to assess each individual situation.

Ideally you want a level site that is clear of other freight
and debris.

It should be well lit, ventilated and away from traffic and
pedestrians.





You should also have enough room to walk around and
manoeuvre loads and equipment.

In some situations, such as stopping on a slope, you
may need chock the wheels, turn the steering wheel to
full lock and barricade off the unloading area.








1.8.2 PREPARING TO UNLOAD

When you are ready to unload, start by walking around
the vehicle and checking the load for any signs of
movement or change.

You should slowly open doors and/or remove restraints
and continue to watch for any movement in the load.

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As a general rule you should plan to unload from
the right side of the vehicle first as the camber of
the road tends to make freight shift slightly to the
left.

Unloading attachments and equipment need to be
in good working order and you must use any
necessary PPE, e.g. gloves, as required.







1.8.3 UNLOADING

When unloading you need to do so in a timely
fashion, keep to your schedule and be courteous to
other drivers or personnel/workers who may be
waiting to use the area.

If you are removing part of the load, you will need to
rearrange the remaining items to ensure the load is
balanced, stowed correctly and complies with
regulations.

Covers and restraints need to be reapplied and
unloading equipment put away.

When loading and unloading goods/cargo, be aware that some items may require special handling and/or
documentation.

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1.9 IDENTIFY GOODS REQUIRING SPECIAL
HANDLING
You need to identify any goods requiring special handling and/or documentation and follow the appropriate
procedures. These goods may include:






Appropriate procedures for dealing with special goods may
involve the following:

Use of technology, e.g. bar code/chip scanners,
metal detectors, X-ray/photographic devices.

Use of specialised equipment, e.g. roll on/roll off
ramps, conveyer belts for loading/unloading,
tarpaulins.

Implementation of a cold-chain, i.e. whereby the
load is kept continuously in cold temperatures.

Administration of paperwork, e.g. livestock
declarations, permits.

A further consideration for loading and unloading
goods/cargo is making sure that any relocated material is
appropriately restacked.

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1.10 RESTACK RELOCATED MATERIAL
Material or goods that have been loaded or unloaded will need to be restacked in the new location in
readiness for further handling or transport.



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When restacking goods/cargo, you need to consider the
characteristics and any special requirements of the load.

Restacking should account for the size and weight of
the goods/cargo, remembering that small or crushable
goods will need careful placement.

In addition, the stack must be a safe height and
appropriate for the method of transport being used.

You also need to ensure that you carry out the
restacking in accordance with national standards, safety
codes and site operating procedures.







Methods used to restack cargo may involve:

Arrangements for multiple layers, stacks of
material or bundles of individual lengths.

The segregation of dangerous goods and
hazardous substances.

The use of refrigeration or freezer areas for
perishables.

Arrangements for bulk loads.

The use of pallets as a portable platform for
lifting bulk quantities.

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APPENDIX 1A WORK HEALTH & SAFETY
COMMON TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
Person
Conducting a
Business or
Undertaking
(PCBU)
A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) replaces the term employer. A
PCBU includes all employers, sole traders, principal contractors, unincorporated
associations, partnerships and franchisees. Volunteer organisations that also employ
people will be PCBUs.
A PCBUs primary duty of care is to ensure the health and safety of everyone in the
workplace, so far as is reasonably practicable.
Officers An Officer is a person who makes, or participates in making, decisions that affect the
whole or a substantial part of a corporation. This includes Health and Safety
Representatives (HSR).
Workers Worker replaces the term employee. It is defined broadly to mean a person who carries
out work in any capacity for a PCBU.
A worker covers employees, contractors, sub-contractors (and their employees), labour
hire employees, outworkers, apprentices, trainees, work experience students and
volunteers.
Reasonably
Practicable
Reasonably Practicable is defined as action that is, or was at a particular time,
reasonably able to be done to help ensure health and safety based on the following
factors:
a) Chances of the hazard or risk occurring (likelihood).
b) The degree of harm (consequence).
c) The knowledge of persons involved in the situation relating to the hazard or risk
and methods of eliminating or controlling it.
d) The availability and suitability of ways to eliminate or control the hazard or risk.
e) The costs involved in taking action to eliminate or control the hazard or risk
including consideration of whether the cost involved is inconsistent to the level of
risk.
Due
Diligence
The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (the WHS Act 2011) imposes a specific duty on
officers of corporations to exercise due diligence to ensure that the corporation meets its
work health and safety obligations. In short, they have a responsibility to ensure that the
PCBU is doing everything it should to ensure health and safety.
The duty requires officers to be proactive in ensuring that the corporation complies with
its duty.
Due diligence may be demonstrated through the following courses of action:
1. Acquiring knowledge of health and safety issues.
2. Understanding operations and associated hazards and risks.
3. Ensuring that appropriate resources and processes are used to eliminate or
minimise risks to health and safety.
4. Implementing processes for receiving and responding to information about
incidents, hazards and risks.
5. Establishing and maintaining compliance processes.
6. Verifying the provision and use of the resources mentioned in 1-5.