Airstream 2013 International, Owner'S Manual

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ExTERIOR
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D
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potential forward or backward movement when loading or unloading.
Be sure the work/loading area is well lit. Avoid loading/unloading at night •
or in conditions of poor visibility.
Do not allow anyone who is not engaged in loading or unloading to be •
inside the trailer cargo area while loading/unloading.
Visually inspect the trailer before loading. A damaged spot in the floor can •
cause cargo to be unstable, and damaged or missing tie down equipment
will prevent you from securing your load properly.
Use caution tape, traffic cones or portable barricades to designate
•
staging and loading areas in high activity situations where other vehicles
and/or pedestrians are present.
Keep the loading area clean and free of clutter and debris. Clean up water •
and oil on the floor.
Designate areas at your campsite or activity area for storage of trash, •
tools, equipment, supplies and expendable containers such as food,
beverage, oil and fuel containers.
Give special attention to large loads that may obstruct the view of the
•
loading crew.
Wear boots that provide adequate ankle support and a slip resistant tread •
design, and hand protection when loading/unloading.
Always communicate with the person doing the loading. Know what the
•
plan is and make sure you agree.
Maintain eye contact with other persons involved at all times during •
If you are loading/unloading alone, are you physically capable of handling
the load safely and keeping it under control? Ask yourself what would
happen if your load falls over or falls out of the trailer. If you are unable
to control your cargo, what will happen to it, you, and any other people,
equipment, or materials if/when it becomes uncontrollable? If you tie
down your load, what will happen if a tie down comes loose? What will
happen if all tie downs come loose? What will you do if someone else
does something dangerous during your loading/unloading?
Decide what to do based on your abilities and the capabilities of your equip-
ment. Always use proper lifting techniques, and personal protection equipment
as necessary. Be sure your cargo does not exceed the capacity of the trailer.
Here are some general safety rules about loading and unloading your cargo
trailer. Other safety items will be covered throughout this section.
Always consider the equipment you are loading. After use, it may be •
wet, slippery, dirty or in some other condition that may be potentially
hazardous.
In all situations, follow the loading and weight guidelines in the “Loading •
and Weighing” chapter of this Owner’s Guide. Never exceed the GAWR
and GVWR ratings of either your trailer or your tow vehicle.
Connect to the tow vehicle and use wheel chocks in addition to the •
stabilizing jacks of spotted trailers when loading and unloading to prevent