Container Handling Suggestions
A "loaded container" by definition is a container other than in the tare or empty condition, in reference to container handling. Unless otherwise confirmed, containers should be treated as loaded. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions such as wind must be taken into account. The word loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. To be able to make sure that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the load must be evenly distributed throughout the container.
Having an evenly distributed cargo it is helpful to prevent excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability, so as to maintain safety. An even cargo helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
With the distribution of load in the container, the eccentricity of the center of gravity varies. It is extremely essential that the designers of handling machinery and containers take this into account in the engineering process. For example, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the length of the container measured from one end of the machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
To be able to make certain that the machine used is right for the cargo, care needs to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Specific attention has to be paid to the risk of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, like for instance a tank container, a bulk container or a container with a liquid bulk bag or a thermal container with a refrigerating unit, either clip on or integral, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care should be taken when lifting these.
There are a lot of methods for using handling containers that can be taken into consideration. Then again, there has to be an evaluation of the equipment means by which the container is to be used. With regards to global container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time has to be taken before starting in order to make sure all situations are handled in the best way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.