§ 393.102 What are the minimum performance criteria for cargo securement devices and systems?

(a) Performance criteria. Cargo securement devices and systems must be capable of withstanding the following three forces, applied separately:

(1) 0.8 g deceleration in the forward direction;

(2) 0.5 g acceleration in the rearward direction; and

(3) 0.5 g acceleration in a lateral direction.

(b) Performance criteria for devices to prevent vertical movement of loads that are not contained within the structure of the vehicle. Securement systems must provide a downward force equivalent to at least 20 percent of the weight of the article of cargo if the article is not fully contained within the structure of the vehicle. If the article is fully contained within the structure of the vehicle, it may be secured in accordance with § 393.106(b).

(c) Prohibition on exceeding working load limits. Cargo securement devices and systems must be designed, installed, and maintained to ensure that the maximum forces acting on the devices or systems do not exceed the working load limit for the devices under the conditions listed in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section.

(d) Equivalent means of securement. Cargo that is immobilized, or secured in accordance with the applicable requirements of §§ 393.104 through 393.136, is considered as meeting the performance criteria of this section.