Loading and securing of containers
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 December 2009
- Generated on 13 December 2024
- IMCA SF 17/09
- 2 minute read
A Member has reported several occurrences over recent months of containers being inappropriately loaded and transported with contents in an unsecured and consequently unsafe manner and seeks to highlight this as a safety issue.
orange clump weights (500 kg) unsecured and stored on top of lighter materials
What happened?
It had come to the attention of the company that unsafe packing of containers is something that is still evident, in spite of this issue being addressed in recent years. The potential exists for injury, environmental impact or equipment damage caused by unsecured cargo moving in the container or spilling out when the doors are opened. The company highlighted some recent examples of poor practice (swipe for more):
the grab handle of this blue steel case has not been secured and the case is resting on top of other equipment
the contents of a freight container are left unsecured; some are labelled as fragile
this item is secured in an inadequate manner (nylon strapping) for its weight and value
this heavy item was loaded in closed container making it very difficult to unload offshore
heavy and valuable motor left unsecured for transit
Actions
The following actions were suggested:
- Place contents in suitable containers, giving consideration to material handling capabilities of those receiving the load (i.e. forklift availability, access, container type).
- Distribute the contents evenly over the floor to maintain balance.
- Place heavier items at the bottom with lighter goods on top – do not place heavy cargo on top of fragile cargo.
- Use packing materials to prevent damage between items of cargo.
- Always lash down (and wedge if necessary) cargo to prevent movement in transit.
- Do not pack sharp items next to soft skinned drums.
- Certain chemicals and materials, when combined (possibly through transit damage), can become toxic, highly flammable or explosive – such materials should be kept separate.
- Ensure the doors and locking mechanisms are secure with locking device attached (including secondary securing device) and where applicable, use door safety nets.
- Ensure no loose items have been left on the roof of containers.
There is sufficient industry guidance available regarding the safe packing and handling of cargo to and from offshore locations, and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code should also be followed. Additionally, following the guidance in Guidelines for lifting operations should help prevent such occurrences.
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