Safe Use of Trailers

Safe Use of Trailers

Introduction

The transport of equipment is a routine and essential activity in support of Scout program delivery. A wide variety of trailers are used regularly to support activities, and events across Queensland.
This practical guide is intended to support the safe use of trailers during Scouting activities, including connecting, loading, towing, and disconnecting. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of injury or damage to volunteers, youth members, the public, and property, and to support compliance with applicable road safety and workplace health and safety obligations.
This guide should be read in conjunction with:
  1. Scouts Queensland risk management requirements
  2. Manufacturer instructions for both the trailer and the tow vehicle
  3. Relevant state and territory road rules

Who May Tow a Trailer

Only adults who:
  1. Hold a valid full driver licence appropriate to the vehicle
  2. Are a registered adult member of Scouts Queensland, or an other adult volunteer under the direction and supervision of registered adult member of Scouts Queensland
  3. Are confident and competent in towing
  4. Have permission to use the trailer
If you are unsure or inexperienced, seek assistance or decline the task.

Before You Start – Key Responsibilities

The driver of the tow vehicle is legally responsible for:
  1. Ensuring the trailer is roadworthy and correctly connected
  2. Ensuring the load is safe and secure
  3. Driving in a manner appropriate for towing
If something does not look right, do not tow.

Pre‑Operational Safety Checks

Before connecting the trailer, check:

Tow Vehicle

  1. The tow vehicle must have full comprehensive car insurance, 
  2. Vehicle is rated to tow the trailer (check towing capacity)
  3. Towbar and tow ball are correctly fitted and tight
  4. Tow ball size matches the trailer coupling
  5. Electrical socket is compatible

Trailer

  1. Trailer is registered
  2. Tyres are inflated and in good condition
  3. Wheel nuts are tight
  4. Safety chains are present and undamaged
  5. D‑shackles are correctly rated
  6. Lights and reflectors are intact
  7. Jockey wheel operates smoothly
  8. Trailer handbrake (if fitted) works
Alert
Avoid manually pushing or lifting heavy trailers. Always reposition the vehicle and use the jockey wheel.

Connecting the Trailer – Step by Step

  1. Park the tow vehicle on level ground
  2. Apply the vehicle handbrake and turn the engine off
  3. Engage the trailer handbrake and chock wheels
  4. Unlock the trailer coupling
  5. Adjust the jockey wheel so the coupling sits just above the tow ball
  6. Reverse the vehicle until the tow ball is directly under the coupling
  7. Lower the coupling onto the tow ball using the jockey wheel
  8. Lock the coupling and insert the safety pin or clip
  9. Attach safety chains using rated D‑shackles
  10. If two chains are fitted, cross them under the drawbar
  11. Connect the electrical plug
  12. Check brake lights, tail lights, and indicators
  13. Raise and secure the jockey wheel in the travel position
  14. Remove wheel chocks and release trailer handbrake
Alert
Conduct a full walk‑around check before moving off.

Using the Jockey Wheel Safely

  1. The jockey wheel must only be vertical when the trailer is disconnected
  2. Never tow with the jockey wheel down
  3. Clamp‑on wheels must be removed and stored
  4. Swing‑up wheels must be locked horizontally

Loading the Trailer Safely

Correct loading is critical to stability and control.

General Loading Principles

  1. Keep the load as low as possible
  2. Distribute weight evenly
  3. Place approximately 60–70% of the load forward of the axle
  4. Never exceed the trailer’s load rating

Securing the Load

  1. Where possible use a cage to ensure all items remain secure
  2. Use rated straps or chains
  3. Prevent movement in all directions
  4. Keep the load within the trailer dimensions
Warning
Never travel with an unsecured load.

Load Size and Overhang

  1. Overall vehicle + trailer length must not exceed legal limits
  2. Loads extending more than 1.2 m behind the trailer require a visible warning flag
  3. Load width must not exceed 2.5 m overall
Warning
Never transport people or youth members in or on a trailer.

Towing on the Road – Safe Driving Tips

  1. Towing changes how your vehicle behaves.
  2. Accelerate slowly and smoothly
  3. Allow extra braking distance
  4. Avoid harsh braking, especially in wet conditions
  5. Take corners wider and slower
  6. Allow for extra length when merging or overtaking
  7. Use lower gears when travelling downhill
  8. Be alert for trailer sway

If Trailer Sway Occurs

  1. Do not brake suddenly
  2. Ease off the accelerator
  3. Hold the steering wheel steady
  4. Allow the vehicle to slow gradually

Reversing with a Trailer

  1. Create an exclusion area, and keep youth members clear when practical
  2. Go slowly
  3. Use small steering inputs
  4. Have an adult spotter outside the vehicle where possible
  5. Agree on clear hand signals before starting
  6. Practice reversing in a safe, open area before towing in busy locations.

Disconnecting the Trailer

  1. Park on level ground
  2. Apply the vehicle handbrake and turn engine off
  3. Engage trailer handbrake and chock wheels
  4. Disconnect electrics
  5. Remove safety chains
  6. Lower jockey wheel
  7. Unlock the coupling
  8. Raise the coupling clear of the tow ball
  9. Move the vehicle forward slowly

After Use – Housekeeping

  1. Clean the trailer
  2. Report any damage or faults
  3. Return keys or locks as required
  4. Advise that the trailer has been returned

Incident and Near‑Miss Reporting

Any incident, damage, or near‑miss involving a trailer must be reported in accordance with Scouts Queensland incident reporting procedures.

Final Reminder

Warning
If you are unsure, uncomfortable, or conditions are unsafe:
Stop. Ask for help. Do not tow.
Safety comes before convenience.

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