Vehicle Crew Behaviour, Loading, Unloading and Handling of Packages
Crew conduct
Crew members must be trained, must not smoke or use open flame during loading, unloading or transport, and must keep the vehicle under supervision. Loading and unloading must be done so that packages are not damaged, do not shift, and do not create a hazard. Traps: assuming the driver alone may load without checking the loader's work, and forgetting that the driver must refuse a load that is visibly non-compliant.
Loading rules
Packages must be secured against movement, stacked according to compatibility, and kept away from sources of heat or ignition. Heavy packages must not crush lighter ones. Where required, packages must be separated from the cab and from foodstuffs. The driver checks the load before departure and after any stop where the load may have shifted.
Handling
Manual handling must protect the back and the package. Damaged packages must be set aside, reported, and not transported. Spills during loading must be cleaned up and the cause reported. Traps in questions: "the loader loaded it, so the driver is not responsible" - wrong; the driver must check. Another trap: continuing a journey with a small leak because "it is only minor" - wrong; the leak must be dealt with before moving.
Worked rule of thumb
Before departure, do a three-point check: load secure, packaging intact, markings and placards correct. After any stop, repeat the load-secure check.