The British International Freight Association (BIFA) recently hosted a webinar in its 2024 series, focusing on safety in the container shipping environment. The session featured insights from Mike Yarwood, Managing Director of Loss Prevention at TT Club, and Robert Windsor, BIFA’s Member Policy & Compliance Director.
Proper Handling of Cargo Transport Units (CTUs)
The webinar emphasized best practices for packing, transporting, and unpacking cargo transport units (CTUs). Proper handling of CTUs is crucial for ensuring the safety of freight containers, an area often less scrutinized than air freight. Attendees learned essential techniques to enhance the safe handling of cargo in the maritime sector.
Managing Hazardous Cargoes
The session highlighted the risks associated with non-declared and mis-declared hazardous cargoes. Key points included the importance of initial documentation checks, identifying non-compliant freight, and regularizing cargoes. These measures are vital for preventing accidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Importance of Verified Gross Mass (VGM)
Understanding and accurately determining the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) of containers is critical for safe shipping practices. The webinar addressed the significance of VGM in maintaining compliance and preventing incidents such as container fires, stack failures, and vehicle roll-overs. BIFA also stressed incorporating its Standard Trading Conditions (STC) into contracts to maximize protective benefits.
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Source: Ajot
