are lever binders illegal?
 

I went into a local store today to buy some lever chain binders, and the guy said that they don't sell them anymore because they are not DOT approved. I was OTR in 2005 with a flatbed company, and all we used were lever binders. Was this guy telling me the truth?

Re: are lever binders illegal?
 

from website http://www.fws.gov/policy/243fw5.html

G.When tie-down chains are used, ratchet load binders are the only approved style of load binders.We do not permit lever type load binders due to their inherent safety hazards.

The answer is yes, several local equipment rental companies got citations for having them in use here. I have always been uneasy using the lever binders after having one pop loose. I have never had a ratchet binder back off until I was ready to back it off.

Thank you.

Wasn't it a binder that broke on Ice Road Truckers and hit TJ in the gut? Or am I thinking of something else?

YUP it was.

This only applies to US Fish and Wildlife employees. I cannot find any regulation that applies to Motor Carriers that prohibit the use of snap/lever binders. I am most interested because TMC issues snap binders and I make extensive use of them. They are dangerous when improperly used. I personally have never had a problem with them.

Yall talking about the "boomers" that have the handle you push in to tighten? If you let go, it can pop ya in the mouth? :P

Those are not legal anymore? Didnt know that.

I had a bad experience with one not long ago that left me on my back after basically flying backwards off a load of plate steel and landing on my head and shoulder onto hard asphalt. Never would've happened with ratchet binders. I hate the d&mned things.

I'm a Tanker guy, but boomers are used here in Canada, after tightening, they must be tied off with wire, as far as I know...