Container Handling Suggestions
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of securing and container handling; is a container other than in the tare or empty condition. Containers must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. To be able to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions such as wind should be considered. The term loaded is the container's maximum gross weigh rating. In order to ensure that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load needs to be distributed throughout the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is helpful to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, so as to maintain safety. An even cargo 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 equipment and containers consider during the engineering process. Like for instance, 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 machinery, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
Make sure that the container is free to be handled and care has to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container, in order to make certain that the equipment utilized is right for the cargo. Particular attention should 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 mobile or eccentric, like for instance a bulk container, a tank container or a container with a liquid bulk bag or a thermal container with a refrigerating unit, either integral or clip on, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care must be taken when raising these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned could be taken into account, but only after careful assessment of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time should be taken prior to starting in order to make sure overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.