Correct as at 3rd May 2024. It may be superseded at any time.
Extract taken: from Vehicle Inspection Portal > VIRMs > In-service certification (WoF and CoF) > Heavy trailers > Load restraints > Curtain systems
10-5 Curtain systems
Reasons for rejection
Condition
1. A load-rated curtain (Note 1) (Note 2):
a) is ripped, or
b) has deteriorated, resulting in weakening of the curtain material, eg crazing, brittleness or stiffness, or
c) has become detached from the frame, or
d) has been poorly repaired.
2. A load-rated curtain tensioning system component:
a) is missing, or
b) is not securely attached, or
c) is damaged, cracked or deformed, or
d) has significant corrosion damage, or
e) is worn beyond manufacturer’s specifications, or
f) does not function correctly.
3. A non-load-rated curtain has deteriorated such an extent that parts could come loose (Note 3).
Note 1
For the purposes of this inspection, a load-rated curtain is one that has labelling that includes the manufacturer’s load rating in kilograms per metre.
Note 2
Advice from the curtain manufacturer may be required in case of doubt about damage and deterioration limits and quality of repairs.
Note 3
For curtain siders that are not load rated, refer to section 10-1 Load anchorages for requirements.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. If a vehicle has a curtain-sided body that is constructed to secure a load on a vehicle, each curtain and curtain anchorage system must:
a) have a manufacturer’s load rating appropriate for all conditions of loading and operation of the vehicle, and
b) be clearly marked with the manufacturer’s load rating in kilograms per metre, in a position on the curtain that is readily accessible for inspection purposes.
Condition
2. Load-securing equipment that is fitted to a vehicle must be constructed to ensure that the load can be securely contained on the vehicle under all conditions of loading and operation for which the vehicle was constructed.