BS AU 267-1998 (2011) PDF

Full title and description

STB BS AU 267-1998 (2011) — Code of practice for breakaway cables and secondary couplings. This document is the Belarusian (STB) adoption of the British Standard BS AU 267:1998 and contains recommendations for the selection, attachment and use of breakaway (safety) cables and secondary coupling devices for light trailers and caravans.

Abstract

This code of practice gives practical guidance on the design, attachment points, installation and basic testing of breakaway cables and secondary coupling arrangements used with light trailers and caravans (up to 3 500 kg). It covers intended applications, minimum strength and positioning considerations, and safe installation practices to reduce the risk of loss-of-tow and uncontrolled runaways should a primary coupling fail or become detached.

General information

• Status: Active (national adoption of BS AU 267:1998 as STB in 2011).
• Publication date: Original BSI publication: 15 November 1998; STB adoption/publication year: 2011.
• Publisher: British Standards Institution (original); National standards body of Belarus (STB) for the adopted version.
• ICS / categories: 43.040.70 (Couplings); 43.100 (Passenger cars, caravans and light trailers).
• Edition / version: BS AU 267:1998 (original); adopted as STB BS AU 267-1998 (2011).
• Number of pages: 8 pages (original text).

Scope

The standard applies to breakaway cables and secondary coupling arrangements for light trailers and caravans (generally up to 3 500 kg gross mass). It is intended for trailers that are unbraked or that use overrun/inertia-type braking systems. The scope includes recommendations for attachment locations on both the towing vehicle and the trailer, minimum performance considerations and safe installation practice rather than detailed vehicle-type specific approval test methods.

Key topics and requirements

• Definitions and terminology for breakaway cables and secondary couplings used with light trailers.
• Recommended attachment points on towing vehicle and trailer to ensure effective operation if primary coupling fails.
• Minimum mechanical strength and construction guidance for cables, hooks, shackles and secondary coupling components.
• Installation rules to avoid interference with moving parts and to prevent accidental release—correct routing, secure fixing and prevention of snagging.
• Compatibility and suitability considerations for different towbar/coupling types (detachable, fixed ball, overrun-braked trailers).
• Basic inspection and maintenance guidance to ensure continued reliability in service (visual checks, corrosion, wear, fastening security).
• Guidance on marking, user instructions and information to be supplied with towing equipment to ensure correct user fitment and operation.

Typical use and users

This code of practice is used by trailer and caravan manufacturers, towbar and coupling equipment designers, component suppliers, vehicle workshops and fitters, safety inspectors and regulatory agencies. It is a practical reference for installers and maintenance personnel who fit or inspect breakaway cables and secondary couplings, and for designers specifying attachment points and safety arrangements for light towed vehicles.

Related standards

Standards and documents commonly referenced alongside this code include other BS AU series documents on towing fixtures and electrical/pneumatic connections (for example BS AU 268 on towing pole assemblies and related towing/attachment specifications), and international standards addressing drawbar eyes and coupling interchangeability such as ISO 8755 (40 mm drawbar eye) and ISO 1102 (50 mm drawbar eye). Relevant towing and coupling specifications within the BS/ISO vehicle mechanical-coupling family should be consulted when designing or certifying tow systems.

Keywords

breakaway cable, secondary coupling, trailer safety, caravan couplings, towbar attachment, overrun brake, tow connections, STB adoption, BS AU 267, towing safety

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: STB BS AU 267-1998 (2011) is the Belarusian adoption (STB) of the British Standard BS AU 267:1998, titled "Code of practice for breakaway cables and secondary couplings." It provides recommended practice for safety cables and secondary couplings used with light trailers and caravans.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the function, recommended attachment points, installation practice, minimum strength considerations and basic inspection/maintenance guidance for breakaway (safety) cables and secondary coupling arrangements for light trailers—mainly those without service brakes or with overrun/inertia brakes, up to about 3 500 kg gross mass.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Trailer and caravan manufacturers, towbar and coupling suppliers, vehicle workshops and fitters, inspection and certification bodies, and anyone responsible for fitting or maintaining trailer safety connections.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The original BSI document was published on 15 November 1998 (BS AU 267:1998). The version adopted as STB is recorded with the year 2011. Users should check national/regulatory registries for any later revisions or national amendments before use.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes. BS AU 267 is part of the BS AU family of vehicle/towing-related standards (covering couplings, towbars, electrical and braking connections). It is normally used alongside other BS/ISO standards governing towbar assemblies, drawbar eyes and coupling interchangeability.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Breakaway cable, secondary coupling, trailer safety, caravan couplings, towbar, attachment point, overrun brake, towing equipment, STB, BS AU 267.