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 securing or handling containers, environmental conditions like for example wind should be considered. The term loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to make certain that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the load must be evenly distributed all around the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is beneficial to avoid 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 in the container. It is extremely important that the designers of handling machines 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 machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
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 sure that the machine used is right for the cargo. Particular attention must 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, such as a tank container, a bulk container a thermal container with a refrigerating unit or a container with a liquid bulk bag, either clip on or integral, or any container with a hanging load, great care needs to be taken when raising these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned can be taken into account, but just after careful evaluation of the machinery by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to global container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is paramount in every situation and time should be taken before starting in order to make sure overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.