At System Edström, safety is at the heart of everything we do. Our van racking systems are designed not only for efficiency and organisation but, crucially, for safety.
When it comes to commercial vehicles, safety isn’t just about how you drive, it’s also about what’s behind you. Unsecured tools, equipment, or cargo in a van can turn into dangerous projectiles in the event of sudden braking or a collision.
Loose items can be lethal
The inside of a working van is a dynamic space. Every time you accelerate, brake or turn, the contents of the van are affected. Now imagine a toolbox or a ladder becoming airborne in an accident. The forces involved can be devastating.
Even in a low-speed collision, a 10 kg object can be thrown forward with hundreds of kilograms of force. That poses a serious risk to the driver and any passengers – and to other road users if doors burst open and items spill onto the road.
Load distribution matters
A poorly loaded van doesn’t just affect safety inside the vehicle; it can affect how the van handles. Uneven weight distribution can lead to instability, reduced braking performance and increased wear on tyres and suspension. It may even make the vehicle illegal to drive under UK road safety regulations.
Our van racking safety solutions are engineered to help you manage this risk. Our modular systems allow for even weight distribution throughout the load area, minimising strain on the vehicle and improving overall road handling.
Crash-tested for peace of mind
Not all racking systems are created equal. Some look the part but haven’t been tested under real-world conditions. System Edström’s racking systems are crash-tested at VTI, the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute, to ensure that they meet the highest European safety standards.
This isn’t just box-ticking. It means that in the event of a collision, our systems are proven to keep your gear secured, drastically reducing the risk of injury and damage.
Safety is a shared responsibility
The responsibility for a safe van lies with both the company and the driver. It’s not enough to simply install shelving or use a few bungee cords to hold things in place. Employers are legally required to ensure that their vehicles are safe and fit for purpose, and that includes securing the load.
Drivers, too, have a duty of care. If an accident occurs and it’s found that loose items contributed to the severity of the crash, both the company and the individual driver could be held liable. Penalties range from fines to serious legal consequences if others are injured.
Investing in a professionally installed, crash-tested van racking system is not just about protecting tools – it’s about protecting people. Our van racking safety solutions always fir the bill.
A safer van is a better business
Aside from the human cost, unsafe vans can have financial consequences. Lost equipment, vehicle damage, downtime and insurance claims all add up. Worse still, your reputation could be on the line.
System Edström’s racking systems help keep everything in its place – secure, organised, and accessible. That means fewer risks, fewer delays and more peace of mind.
In summary
Van safety isn’t just about driving carefully. It’s about thinking ahead and ensuring everything in the vehicle is secure and evenly distributed. Loose items are a real hazard, but with a crash-tested solution from System Edström, you dramatically reduce the risks.
- Protect your team.
- Stay on the right side of the law.
- Preserve your tools and equipment.
- Protect your business.
Your van is your livelihood. Make sure it’s as safe as it is productive.
For more advice on safer driving at work, take a look at the Driving for Better Business website.
