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 must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions such as wind need to be considered. The term loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to guarantee that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load should be distributed all around the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed cargo is helpful to avoid excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability. A load that is even 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 essential that the designers of handling machinery and containers consider during the engineering process. For instance, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the container length measured from one end of the machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
To be able to make certain that the equipment utilized is right for the cargo, care needs to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Specific attention has to 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 should be taken when raising these.
A variety of methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned can be taken into consideration, but just after careful evaluation of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital in every situation and time needs to be taken prior to starting in order to make certain overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.