EN 12195 is the European standard that defines how loads must be secured on commercial vehicles. It covers both the calculation of restraint forces (Part 1) and the technical requirements for lashing straps (Part 2).
EN 12195 Part 1: Load Securing Calculations
Part 1 establishes how to calculate the number and strength of lashings required to restrain a load safely during transport.
- Load weight – the total mass of the load.
- Coefficient of friction – the resistance between the load and the vehicle deck.
- Strap angle – the angle at which the lashing is applied.
- Lashing capacity (LC) – the rated working strength of the strap.
The purpose of these calculations is to ensure that loads remain stable during braking, cornering and acceleration.
EN 12195 Part 2: Lashing Strap Requirements
Part 2 defines the construction, testing and mandatory label information for lashing straps used for load restraint.
Mandatory Label Information
- LC (Lashing Capacity) in decanewtons (daN).
- LGF and LGL – fixed and adjustable strap lengths.
- SHF (Standard Hand Force) – always 50 daN.
- STF (Standard Tension Force) – residual tension after tightening.
- Warning: "Not for Lifting".
- Webbing material – typically PES, PA or PP.
- Manufacturer name or symbol.
- Traceability code.
- EN 12195-2 reference.
- Year of manufacture.
- Elongation at LC.
Additional Term
- BF (Breaking Force) – typically double the LC, providing a safety margin.
Relationship Between LC, SHF and STF
LC defines the maximum working load of the strap. SHF is the standard hand force of 50 daN applied by the operator. STF is the residual tension remaining in the strap after tightening.
STF is usually lower than LC. STF provides the immediate holding force, while LC represents the safety margin that allows the strap to withstand dynamic forces during transport.
How They Work Together
- Operator applies 50 daN hand force (SHF).
- Ratchet generates residual tension (STF).
- LC ensures the strap can withstand peak forces if the load shifts.
This layered system ensures both stability in normal operation and protection during extreme events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EN 12195?
EN 12195 is the European standard governing how loads are restrained on commercial vehicles, covering both calculation methods and lashing strap specifications.
What does LC mean on a lashing strap?
LC is the lashing capacity, expressed in daN, showing the maximum working force the strap can safely withstand.
What is the difference between LC and STF?
LC is the strap’s maximum rated working load. STF is the residual tension remaining after tightening that holds the load in place during transport.
Why is SHF always 50 daN?
SHF is standardised at 50 daN to ensure consistent and safe application of force by operators across all lashing systems.
