Container Handling Suggestions
The definition 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. To be able to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions such as wind has to be considered. The word loaded refers to 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 cargo must be equally distributed throughout the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed cargo is beneficial to avoid lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. A load that is even helps to prevent unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the load distribution in the container. It is very important that the designers of handling machines and containers take this into account during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the container length measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
To be able to make certain that the equipment utilized is right for the cargo, care has to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Particular attention needs to 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 eccentric or mobile, 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 integral or clip on, or any container with a hanging cargo, great care must be taken when raising these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned could be taken into account, but just after careful assessment of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to global container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital 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.