When containers are placed on a ship to be transported overseas, they need to be secured effectively to make sure those containers don’t fall overboard and the contents kept inside are safe. The sea voyage is quite turbulent with the boat shaking and turning a lot of water. Multiple containers stacked on top of one another are always in danger of tipping over.
This is why container lashing is such an important step for any cargo ship. Lashing keeps the containers intact in their place and prevents them from moving around too much. There are different ways to lash a container onto a ship depending on the kind of cargo and lashing equipment present on board.
What is Container Lashing and Why is it Important
Container lashing uses lashing rods, container stackers, turnbuckles, twist locks, lashing bridges, etc to secure the load over a ship. A ship experiences several motions over sea making it difficult for the containers to stay stationary. Unsecured containers have led to accidents, injuries to workers, and heavy losses due to the containers falling into the sea.
Containers have also started to become bigger and bigger to fit more cargo making it even more important to ensure their safety. Stevedores take care of the lashing and de-lashing of containers on a port but due to time constraints, the deck crew can assist them as well.
Important Points to Remember for Container Lashing
- Apart from lashing, cargo stowage is also another effective way of keeping the containers from moving and falling over. However, this works best when there are no heavy components and the cargo is packaged adequately.
- Securing points on the cargo and the ship should be durable and reliable. They should be able to hold the container and tolerate the pressure being applied.
- Keep the cargo lashing short and tau to get a better hold.
- If using multiple lashing on one cargo, try to keep them under equal tension or of the same material and elasticity.
- Make sure that the lashing you’ve used is modifiable and can be checked and tightened during the passage as well.
- The lashing should be strong enough to keep the containers from falling over when a ship rolls through 30 degrees in 13 seconds.
- Railing, catwalks, steps, and work platforms should be properly checked before starting the operations.
- Container lashing responsibility should be given to a qualified and experienced person only.
- The CSS or Cargo Stowage and Securing Code should be followed to minimize risk and comply with the international standards.
- Lashing equipment and gear should be regularly inspected to make sure they are working properly.
- Weather conditions during the transport should also be kept in mind while using container lashing.
- It is advised to plan the storage and stowage arrangement before a container is actually onboard the ship.
Also Read: Types of Cargo Damage in Container Shipping
Cargo shipping has long been an affordable and convenient way to transport products across countries. Container lashing helps in keeping the containers intact and protecting the lives of seafarers and the things kept inside.
