Safe handling of containers

• Before lifting or handling check:
  • Doors or other loose parts are secured
  • For evidence of damage or corrosion - if suspect take out of use
• Only handle with appropriate equipment - if correct specialised equipment not available handling must be supervised by a competent person
• Only use forklifts if fitted with side or top lift frames or if container has fork pockets. Grappler lifting arms may also be used if container has grappler lifting points.
• Loaded containers should not be lifted from the top fittings by slings or brothers (or in any non-vertical way) unless:
  • They are designed and approved to withstand the resulting compressive forces; or
  • An adequate assessment of the handling method, forces generated, container strength and system of work by a competent person shows it to be safe.
• Most containers can be lifted from bottom corner castings using a transverse lifting beam. Otherwise a full size lifting frame with twist locks or vertical wire lifts should be used.
• Road/rail vehicles transporting containers must be equipped with holding down twist locks, pin locks or equivalent.
• Reliance on corner plates, gather guides or fixed corner cones is only acceptable at the restricted speeds allowed in docks and container parks.
• If containers are stacked 2 high on roll trailers they must be locked together or otherwise secured. The top container must not be heavier than the bottom one.