Section 296-54-58920. Log trucks—Trailer hitches and safety chains.

(1) All log truck and trailer combinations must be equipped with approved hitches (couplings) which must:

(a) Be capable of withstanding, in any direction, the potential stresses imposed;

(b) Be of a design which would not be rendered inoperative by dirt and debris and must be locked securely and positively; and

(c) Be attached to the truck frame or extension of the truck frame by means of not less than four machine bolts and nuts (120,000 psi material or better) inch diameter or larger, secured by lock nuts. Other means of attachment furnishing strength equal to or greater than the above may be accepted if of approved design and application.

(2) Hitches (couplings) or parts that are broken, cracked, excessively worn, or otherwise defective hitches must be repaired before use.

(3) Each log truck and trailer combination or log truck and independent trailer combination must be provided with two or more safety chains or cables with a rated breaking strength of at least the gross weight of the towed vehicle, and:

(a) Able to hold the trailer in line in case of failure of the hitch assembly;

(b) Permanently attached to the frame of the truck or an extension of the truck frame;

(c) Form a separate continuous connection between the truck frame or extension of the truck frame and the reach or trailer;

(d) Attached not more than twelve inches from the eye of the reach or trailer;

(e) Short enough to prevent the trailer reach or tongue from contacting the ground in the event of disengagement from the truck;

(f) Designed to provide a positive connection that cannot be made inoperative by any condition of use or exposure.

(4) Safety chains and cables must be replaced immediately if they contain cut, cracked, or excessively worn links, or frayed, stranded, or otherwise defective wire rope.

(5) Butt welding of safety chain links to reach truck frame, or extension of truck frame is prohibited.

(6) Repairs to safety chains, such as cold shuts, are prohibited.

(7) Frames must not be welded or drilled into if the manufacturer recommends against it.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040 and [49.17].050. WSR 99-17-117, § 296-54-58920, filed 8/18/99, effective 12/1/99.]

RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040 and [49.17].050. WSR 99-17-117, § 296-54-58920, filed 8/18/99, effective 12/1/99.