Which anchorage point is unsafe to use with ratchet straps?

Load Straps & Slings
Nov 21
2 min read

For a load to be attached securely and according to relevant health and safety laws, it’s important only to use safe and suitable anchor points.

Which anchorage point is unsafe to use with ratchet straps?

Before loading your cargo and attaching a ratchet strap, it’s important to check that the vehicle, trailer, or flatbed has safe anchorage points.

If you discover any of the following, then the anchor point is unsafe to use with ratchet straps:

Sheeting hooks: These are designed for securing sheets or tarpaulins, not heavy cargo
Rope hooks: These often have weak fastenings and are designed for light loads only
Any other anchorage points not designed for securing loads: Attaching your ratchet strap to a random rail or bracket is not safe
Damaged anchorage points: Any signs of damage are a red flag and should be avoided
Uncertified anchor points: If they’ve not been tested for safety, certified, and rated for load-bearing, don’t trust them
Points with incompatible fittings: Using the wrong type of anchor fitting for your ratchet strap can reduce the strap’s effectiveness

What is an anchorage point?

Ratchet straps are used to secure a heavy load to a vehicle during transportation. The straps are securely wrapped around the load and then attached to a vehicle’s anchor points.

An anchorage point (also known as an anchor point) is a secure and fixed point of attachment, and is an essential component when securing loads with ratchet straps.

Usually found on the chassis or frame of the vehicle, anchorage points come in various forms, including lashing rings, D-rings, and tie-down rails.

Once a strap has been wrapped around the cargo and attached to the anchor point, it creates the tension necessary to secure a load.

What makes a safe anchorage point?

For an anchorage point to be safe, it must meet several requirements, including:

Specifically designed for securing loads: Safe anchorage points are purpose-built to work with ratchet straps and engineered from high-strength materials to withstand heavy cargo
In good condition: Before attaching a load, the anchorage points should be inspected for rust, cracks, missing bolts, and damaged welding
Suitable for the load capacity: The anchor’s load capacity should match your load’s size and weight
Certified: Safe anchorage points are tested and rated according to relevant UK and European standards. Check the anchor points certification to ensure that it meets minimum strength requirements before use

What are the risks of using unsafe anchorage points?

Using an unsafe anchorage point can be extremely dangerous, putting the driver and anyone on the road or assisting with loading/unloading at serious risk of harm.

If the anchor point fails: