What does "sandwiching" a load refer to in load securement?

"Sandwiching" a load refers to placing items tightly together to create a stable and secure arrangement. This method helps to prevent movement during transportation, as tightly packed items are less likely to shift or slide around. By sandwiching the load, you maximize the contact surface between items, which helps distribute weight evenly and minimizes the risk of shifting that can lead to injuries or accidents during transit. This technique is particularly useful when dealing with irregularly shaped loads or items that could otherwise move and become dislodged.

The other methods outlined in the options do not contribute to the securement of a load in the same effective way. For example, loading loosely can cause instability, and stacking items on top of each other without securing them may lead to top-heavy situations where items can easily fall. Using additional tarps does provide some benefits such as weather protection but does not inherently secure the load itself. Therefore, placing items tightly together is the key concept behind "sandwiching" a load, making it the correct answer.