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 should be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like wind should be considered. The word loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. To be able to make certain that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the load needs to be distributed all over the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is advantageous to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, in order to maintain safety. An even cargo helps to avoid unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the load distribution within the container. It is very important that the designers of containers and handling machines take this into consideration during the engineering process. Like for example, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the length of the container measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
Make sure 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 machinery utilized is perfect for the load. Specific attention must be paid to the risk of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, such as a tank container, a bulk container or a container with a liquid bulk bag or a thermal container with a refrigerating unit, either clip on or integral, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care should be taken when lifting these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned can be taken into account, but just after careful evaluation of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in every situation and time must be taken prior to starting in order to make sure all situations are handled in the best way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.