Common Shipment Hazards And Preventive Measures

Cargo handling operations open the door to a range of safety concerns that are crucial to address. Shipping personnel must be well-informed about the considerations involved in cargo handling on ships to ensure the safe transportation of goods. Implementing safety measures and utilizing materials handling equipment effectively are key ways to secure cargo on ships. Let's explore common hazards in global shipment and tips for protecting shipboard cargo.

Wear and Tear

When shipments come into contact with other cargo, they are at risk of punctures and wear and tear. This often results from improper or insufficient internal packaging, causing pressure on the external packaging. To mitigate this risk, proper internal packaging should fill open spaces and provide rigid support to external packaging, reducing the chances of wear and tear.

Constriction

Stacking cargo on top of each other can lead to crushing or compression, causing severe damage if the exterior packaging is not adequately supported. Properly arranging internal packaging to fill gaps and provide support to external packaging minimizes the risk of constriction or crushing.

Environmental Vulnerability

Environmental conditions, including climate and geographical factors, can significantly impact cargo damage during shipment. Moisture and humidity can deteriorate cargo and weaken packaging materials. For example, adhesive used in corrugated cardboard boxes softens when exposed to moisture, compromising packaging integrity.

Handling of Shipment

Manual lifting of non-palletized cargo can result in accidents, as heavy items may drop or slide. Even when using forklifts for palletized shipments, there is a risk of falls or slides, posing hazards to both cargo and personnel.

Shock

A Cargo may experience shocks during transit as it moves through various transportation modes involving forklifts, conveyors, and carts. Inadequate packaging may lead to damage when cargo is subjected to handling elements during transit.

Valuable Tips for Protecting Cargo from Shipment Hazards

To safeguard cargo during shipping and mitigate the risks associated with shipment hazards, consider the following methods:

1. Banding and Strapping:

tilize banding and strapping to secure goods, suitable for both palletized and non-palletized items. Types of banding include steel, nylon, polyester (PET), and polypropylene, chosen based on the nature of the cargo. Plastic strapping with an unbreakable seal should be used for durability and security.

2. Shrink Wrapping:

Apply shrink wrap tightly around goods, rotating it horizontally. Overlap the film by 50% on the previous layer. Crisscross the film diagonally from corner to top. Angle the film downward and overlap it tightly around the pallet base.

3. Edge Protectors:

Use vertical edge protectors to minimize box damage and stabilize the load. Horizontal and upright edge protectors are both beneficial.

4. Paperboards:

Place paperboards on the top, base, and sides to create a protective barrier. This helps distribute shipment weight and protect against base slat damage.

5. Bracing:

Employ wood or metal bracing against the pallet to prevent sideways movement, especially for items like cable reels or engines. Pre-shipment testing is recommended to assess packaging effectiveness and its ability to protect against shipment hazards. By implementing these measures and considering the nature of your cargo, you can enhance cargo safety during transportation, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring a smoother shipping process.