Container Handling Suggestions
The meaning of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like for example wind should be considered. The word loaded is the container's maximum gross weigh rating. To be able to make certain that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load must be distributed throughout the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed load is beneficial to avoid lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. A cargo which is even helps to avoid unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
With the distribution of load in the container, the eccentricity of the center of gravity differs. It is very essential that the designers of handling machines and containers take this into consideration in the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the length of the container measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
In order to make certain that the equipment utilized is right for the cargo, care needs to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Particular attention must be paid to the possibility of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, like for instance a bulk container, a tank container a thermal container with a refrigerating unit or a container with a liquid bulk bag, either integral or clip on, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care has to be taken when lifting these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned could be taken into account, but just after careful assessment of the machinery by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to global container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is paramount in every situation and time must be taken prior to starting in order to make certain overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best way possible.