ANSBACH, Germany (April 14, 2014) -- U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach held a load securement class April 8 through 10 to train vehicle operators and equipment loaders on how to properly contain, immobilize and secure cargo.
The course, which delved into the technical aspects of load securement, required members to pass a written exam and hands-on practical exam. Passing the course gave attendees host-nation certification, which is valid for two years from the date of issuance.
"The safety staff sponsored the training to raise awareness of the requirements for transporting cargo," said Manfred Meyer, garrison safety specialist. "USAG Bamberg and Schweinfurt are closing and many of the closing installations' assets are being transferred to USAG Ansbach, and the principal means of conveying the cargo is over roadways. It is imperative that we do so safely."
Ehrenfried Dengler, load securement course instructor and command dangerous goods adviser for U.S. Army Europe Headquarters Safety Office, taught the course.
"Being a good driver is only part of the equation," said Dengler. "Vehicle operators must be proficient in cargo securement and transport to minimize the risk of accidents."
According to Dengler, safe transportation of cargo is a multifaceted endeavor.
"German law requires all cargo transported on roadways be properly contained, immobilized, or secured so that it does not leak, spill, blow off the vehicle, fall from the vehicle, fall through the vehicle, or otherwise become dislodged from the vehicle," said Dengler. "Additionally, the cargo must be secured to prevent it from shifting on or within the vehicle to such an extent that the vehicle's stability or maneuverability is adversely affected."
Course attendees received training in the basic principles of cargo securement, the elements of a securement system, how to properly contain cargo within a vehicle, selecting and using tie-downs to secure cargo, and how to conduct an inspection of a cargo to determine whether it is safe for transport.
"It was a great course and I learned a lot," said Daniel Wörnlein, hazardous waste manager at USAG Ansbach. "I recommend every driver take the course."
E. J. Singleton, USAG Ansbach safety manager, hopes to offer an English course later this year. Units interested in attending the next course should call the safety office at 0981-183-1670 or DSN 468-1670.
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