Session 6: Containership Flashcards
What is a TEU?
A TEU is the standard size reference for containers and represents the volume of a standard 20-foot container, which is 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet high.
There are also 40-foot containers known as Forty-Foot Equivalent Units (FEUs), which would count as two TEUs.
Find the location of the following containers…
030304
040208
05038
check your notes
what are the six motions of a ship at sea?
-heave
-sway
-pitch
-yaw
-roll
-surge
How to secure a container below the deck and on the deck?
Securing Containers Below Deck
Cell Guides:
Containers below deck are typically placed in cell guides, which are vertical tracks that guide containers into place and prevent lateral movement.
Stack Weight and Height Limits:
Adhere to the maximum stack weight and height limits, which are often lower below deck due to structural considerations.
Twist Locks and Stacking Cones:
Use twist locks or stacking cones at the corners of the containers to lock them together vertically. These devices automatically lock when a container is placed on top of another.
Lashing Points:
In some cases, additional lashing points are provided below deck for extra securing, especially for heavier or oversized containers.
Stowage Planning:
Arrange containers based on their weight, size, and destination. Heavier containers are typically stowed at the bottom of the stack.
Securing Containers On Deck
Lashing Equipment:
Use lashing rods, turnbuckles, chains, or wire ropes to secure containers. The lashing equipment should be rated for the expected loads and sea conditions.
Twist Locks and Lashing Bars:
Secure containers to each other and to the deck using twist locks. Lashing bars may also be used to provide horizontal restraint.
Lashing Points:
Attach lashings to designated strong points on the deck. The pattern and strength of lashings depend on the expected weather conditions and the size and weight of the containers.
Stacking Patterns:
Follow the ship’s stowage plan, which dictates stacking patterns and height limits. This plan ensures stability and even weight distribution.
Weather Considerations:
In anticipation of rough weather, additional lashings might be required. Always consider the weather forecast for the voyage when planning container securing.
Regular Inspections:
Regularly inspect the securing arrangements throughout the voyage, especially after encountering heavy weather.
In what publication would you find regulations about container weighting?
SOLAS CHAPTER 6 (Regulation 2- Cargo Information)
Why should the shipper give the weight of the cargo to the master?
Safety and Stability of the Vessel: Accurate knowledge of the cargo’s weight is crucial for ensuring the vessel’s stability. Overloading or uneven distribution of weight can lead to instability, which in extreme cases might cause the vessel to capsize.
Proper Stowage and Securing of Cargo: Knowing the weight helps in planning the stowage of cargo. Heavier items need to be placed strategically to maintain the vessel’s balance and to ensure that they are securely fastened.
Compliance with Regulations: Maritime transport is subject to international and national regulations, including the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. These regulations often require accurate weight declarations to ensure safe and lawful operation. e.g. the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) requirement. This regulation, which became mandatory on July 1, 2016, under the SOLAS Convention,
What are the responsibilities of the OOW during container loading and unloading operation?
The Officer on Watch (OOW) has a vital role during container loading and unloading operations, with responsibilities focusing on the safety of life, security of cargo, integrity of the ship, and protection of the environment. Here are some key responsibilities in each of these areas:
-
Life Safety:
- Monitoring Crew and Personnel Safety: Ensuring that all personnel involved in the operation are following safety protocols, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and are aware of emergency procedures.
- Overseeing Evacuation and Emergency Readiness: Being prepared to initiate and coordinate emergency response in case of an accident, including evacuation procedures.
-
Cargo Security:
- Supervising Cargo Handling: Making sure that containers are handled properly to prevent damage to the cargo. This includes overseeing the correct use of equipment and ensuring that containers are loaded and unloaded according to the planned stowage.
- Maintaining Cargo Documentation: Keeping accurate records of the cargo being loaded and unloaded, including weights, contents, and any special handling requirements.
-
Ship Integrity:
- Monitoring Ship’s Stability and Stress: Constantly checking the ship’s stability and stress levels during the operation to prevent excessive strain on the ship’s structure.
- Ensuring Proper Lashing and Securing of Containers: Verifying that containers are properly lashed and secured to prevent shifting during voyage which could affect the ship’s stability.
- Communication with the Bridge and Engineering: Keeping the bridge and engineering team informed about the progress of operations and any issues that may affect the ship’s navigability or machinery.
-
Environmental Protection:
- Preventing Pollution: Ensuring that operations are conducted in a manner that prevents pollution, which includes overseeing the handling of any hazardous materials and ensuring that waste and residues are managed properly.
- Monitoring for Spills and Environmental Hazards: Being vigilant for any signs of oil or chemical spills and initiating immediate action if any such incidents occur.
In addition to these specific areas, the OOW must maintain effective communication with the shore-based personnel, crane operators, and stevedores involved in the operation. The OOW should also be aware of the port’s specific regulations and guidelines, and ensure compliance with all relevant maritime laws and industry best practices.
Give me some various lifting gears that are used to load and unload containers.
-Crane
-spreader, giant claw machine but for containers
-straddle carrier; big vehicle that can drive over a container, pick it up and move it around the port
-forklifts
What are the general steps for loading a container?
Loading a Container
Preparation and Planning:
Cargo Assessment: Identify the type, weight, and special handling requirements of the cargo.
Stowage Planning: Develop a stowage plan considering the cargo’s weight, dimensions, and destination. This plan is crucial for maintaining the ship’s stability and optimizing space.
Container Inspection:
Condition Check: Inspect the container for any damage or structural issues.
Cleanliness and Suitability: Ensure the container is clean and suitable for the type of cargo being loaded.
Packing the Container:
Loading Cargo: Carefully load the cargo into the container, adhering to the weight limits and ensuring even distribution.
Securing Cargo: Use straps, braces, or other securing devices to prevent movement of the cargo during transit.
Weighing the Container:
Accurate Weighing: Weigh the packed container to ensure compliance with weight restrictions and for accurate declaration on shipping documents.
Documentation:
Shipping Documents: Prepare and verify shipping documents, including the bill of lading, packing list, and any necessary customs paperwork.
Transport to Port:
Inland Transportation: Transport the container to the port using trucks, trains, or barges.
Port Arrival and Loading onto Ship:
Check-In and Inspection: Undergo port procedures, including inspection and verification.
Loading onto Vessel: Use cranes to load the container onto the ship, placing it according to the stowage plan.
General steps for unloading a container?
Unloading a Container
Arrival at Destination Port:
Disembarking: Cranes remove the containers from the ship.
Inspection and Verification: Containers are inspected and checked against manifest and customs documents.
Cargo Retrieval:
Offloading from Port: Containers are moved to a holding area or directly onto trucks, trains, or barges for further transportation.
Customs and Clearance: Go through customs procedures, where necessary.
Transport to Final Destination:
Inland Transportation: Containers are transported to their final destination.
Unpacking:
Unloading Cargo: Unpack the cargo at the final destination or at a designated warehouse.
Return of Container: Empty containers are returned to a shipping line facility or prepared for another load.
