Handling Methods. - TM-38-4000277

TM 38-400/NAVSUP PUB 572/AFMAN 23-210 MCO 4450.14/DLAM 4145.12

Figure 5-1. Diagram of leather apron for use in the handling of lumber.

(2) Protective gloves. Gloves that provide

adequate protection from slivers or splinters must be

worn by lumber handlers.

5-2. Handling Methods.

a. Receiving. Lumber is normally received as

strapped units on gondolas, flatcars, or trucks. The use

of automatic and hand applied strapping and improved

handling equipment has nearly eliminated handling

boards one at a time. When lumber is unitized and

loaded, as specified in MI-L14362, Unitizing and

Loading of Lumber, the lumber may be moved by crane,

forklift, straddle carry truck, or sideloader, eliminating

manual handling (chap 4, sec II depicts MHE). Lumber

Figure 5-2. Diagram of bolster for use with a 57-

received in this manner should be placed on bolsters for

inch straddle carry truck.

transport. When drafts do not meet requirements for

storage because of moisture content, improper

(2) As the lumber is placed in storage, the

stickering, or other causes, the units should be

empty bolsters are removed and stacked for return to

reunitized (in accordance with para 176) to correct the

loading/unloading sites. These stacks are prepared by

deficiencies prior to being placed in storage.

placing two or more bolsters in position for pickup and

b. Bolsters.

solid piling other bolsters across them. Each successive

(1) Bolsters should be constructed in

layer of bolsters is cross piled to bind the stack securely

accordance with specifications shown in figure 5-2,

for stability while being transported.

except that the width of the straddle carry truck, if used,

will determine bolster length. In selecting timber for

5-3. Formation of Lumber Drafts.

bolsters, care should be exercised to select solid straight

grained wood, as bolsters will be subject to excessive

a. General. The handling and transporting of

strain in the lifting and transporting of materials.

lumber in drafts and stacking lumber in drafts have

Hardwoods are preferable for construction of bolsters;

become accepted practice throughout the lumber-

however, when hardwood is not available, straight grain

producing and wood-using industries. These practices

Douglas fir or larch may be used.

have brought about changes in yard layout and in

stacking methods. Although the

5-3