Safe Handling of Tank Containers - ITCO

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet No 30
12.5.8 In summary the following are important when accepting a tank container and
planning for their stowage on board a ship:
Ensure the shipper / operator has not over or under filled the tank.
See section 4.2.1.9 in the IMDG Code for specific guidance in this
regard
Ensure the shipper / operator has not filled the tank so that the
combined mass of the cargo and the tare of the tank container
exceeded the rated maximum gross mass of the container (see 12.2.3,
Annex 1 Definitions and Annex 4 section A4.2.4).
Plan the stow based on the tank’s gross mass and on the possible
need to segregate its contents from other dangerous goods in the
stow.
Consider the tank container as a closed container for the purposes of
segregation but keep in mind that tank containers have relief devices
that may release vapours during a voyage.
Note: For substances with clear of living quarters in column 16 of
the Dangerous Good List, in deciding stowage, consideration
shall be given to the possibility that leaking vapours may
penetrate the accommodation, machinery space and other
work areas. It should be kept in mind that vapours may pass
down companionways and other openings into living spaces
and work areas. Bulkheads, for example, between holds
and engine rooms must be kept hermetically sealed.
Consider the potential for a large spill and any attendant emergency
response or clean-up activity that may be necessary.
Tank containers loaded with a hazardous substance and stowed on
deck but not intended for discharge at the terminal should not be left in
the path of other containers or hatch covers being moved in the same
bay. In such a case, the tanks should be either moved to another bay
or, if that is not practical, placed at a safe location on the terminal as a
re-handle(s).
In planning stowage, consideration should be given to the plug-in
arrangements necessary for certain cargoes in tank containers which
need heating or cooling.
13 Access to Tank Container Tops and Working at Height
13.1 All tank containers where access to the interior can only be gained through a
top opening or where the cargo is loaded through a hatch in the top of the
container will be fitted with a means of climbing onto the container top.
However these access means often will have restricted and in some cases
incomplete rungs / steps.
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