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. In order to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions like for instance wind need to 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 must be distributed throughout the container.
Having an evenly distributed cargo it is advantageous to avoid lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, in order to maintain safety. An even load helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity differs, with the load distribution within the container. It is very important that the designers of containers and handling machinery take this into consideration during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% 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 needs to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container, in order to make sure that the machine used is perfect for the load. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, such as a bulk container, a tank 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, extreme care must be taken when raising these.
There are lots of methods for using handling containers that can be taken into consideration. Nevertheless, there needs to be an evaluation of the equipment means by which the container is to be used. With regards to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time should be taken before starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.