Section 296-54-58940. Log trucks—Stakes, stake extensions and chock blocks.

(1) Trucks and trailers must be equipped with bunk stakes or chock blocks of strength and sized material to perform their intended function.

(2) All stakes, stake extensions, and bunks installed on log trucks and trailers, together with the means to secure and lock the stakes in hauling position, must be designed and constructed of materials of such size and dimension that will withstand operational stresses without yield or permanent set.

(3) Stake extensions made from axle shafts or other brittle material are prohibited.

(4) The linkage used to support the stakes or chocks must be of adequate size and strength to withstand the maximum imposed impact load. Molles or cold shuts are prohibited in chains or cables used for linkage.

(5) Stake chains or cables must be equal to or better than "high test" steel chain or "plow steel" wire rope, and of a size necessary to meet the requirements of a safe working load of at least six thousand six hundred pounds. (3/8-inch alloy chain, 7/16-inch high test chain of welded link construction, and 5/8 inch improved plow steel cable in 6 x 19 and 6 x 37 construction meet this requirement.)

(6) Bunk chains containing cut, cracked, excessively worn, or otherwise defective links, must be immediately removed from service. Molles, cold shuts (welded or otherwise), or bolts are not permitted in bunk chains.

(7) The use of frayed, stranded, or otherwise defective wire rope for chock block cable or stake straps is prohibited.

(8) Only chain links approved for welding (and properly welded) or approved repair links that will develop strength equivalent to the chain, are permissible for repairs or attachments to stake chains or binder chains.

(9) Chains or cables used to secure stakes or chock blocks must be secured in a way that does not require hammering directly on them to release the stakes or blocks. Keyhole slots and similar methods of securing chains are prohibited.

(10) Deformed or defective stakes, stake securing or stake locking devices, or bunks must be immediately repaired or removed from service.

(11) Each stake and chock used to trip loads must be constructed so that the tripping mechanism is activated on the side opposite the release of the load.

(12) Trip type stakes must be properly secured and locked in a manner that will prevent them from accidentally tripping or falling.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040 and [49.17].050. WSR 99-17-117, § 296-54-58940, filed 8/18/99, effective 12/1/99.]

RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040 and [49.17].050. WSR 99-17-117, § 296-54-58940, filed 8/18/99, effective 12/1/99.