Container Handling Suggestions
The meaning of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the tare or empty condition. Containers must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions like wind must be considered. The word loaded refers to the container's maximum gross weigh rating. To be able to make sure that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the cargo must be equally distributed throughout the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is helpful to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, in order to maintain safety. An even cargo helps to avoid unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the distribution of load within the container. It is extremely important that the designers of containers and handling equipment take this into consideration during the engineering process. For example, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the container length measured from one end of the machinery, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
Make certain that the container is free to be handled and care has to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container, in order to make certain that the equipment used is right for the cargo. Particular attention has to be paid to the risk of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, like for instance a tank container, a bulk 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, great care must be taken when raising these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned may be taken into account, but just after careful assessment of the machinery by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to global container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is vital in every situation and time should be taken prior to starting in order to make sure all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.