Container Handling Suggestions
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers should be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. To be able to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like for example wind must be considered. The word loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. To be able to ensure that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the load needs to be distributed throughout the container.
Having an evenly distributed cargo it is advantageous to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, in order to maintain safety. An even cargo helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity differs, with the distribution of load within the container. It is very important that the designers of containers and handling equipment take this into consideration in the engineering process. For instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the container length measured from one end of the machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
Make certain 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 sure that the machine utilized is right for the load. Specific attention has to be paid to the risk of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, 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.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned could be taken into consideration, but just after careful evaluation of the machinery by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to international container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in every situation and time should be taken before starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.