What is Container Lashing?
Sea freight carriers secured containers to the ship’s structure and to the container placed below it. This container lashing. Carriers control container onboard by means of lashing rods, turnbuckles, twist-locks etc. This heavy duty equipment secures containers to the ship hull. In turn, that protects containers from falling off into the sea during rough weather or heavy winds.
Who Does the Container Lashing?
Normally stevedores are responsible for lashing and de-lashing jobs in port. However, due to less port stay and constraint of time, the deck crew is also responsible for this operation.
Before the arrival at port, the ship’s crew normally de-lashes the container to save time at the port. This allows for quick discharge of containers immediately after berthing. Thereafter, port crews unload containers into container freight stations for container stripping.
Proper container lashing includes routine safety walkthroughs by the ship’s crew. Otherwise, any type of accidents can occur due to improper lashing.
Strap It up – Safety Tips for Proper Lashing.
- Utilize recommended Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a gloves, construction helmet, steel toe shoes, and a reflective vest.
- Always warm your body up before a lengthy and strenuous shift
- Lift with your legs, not your back. Use a back brace. Practice Squats.
- Be mindful of the ships infrastructure on deck. Be aware of hazards related to tripping.
- While boarding or leaving ship with a load, be careful to not trip, slip and fall.
- Never walk under suspended or hanging equipment. Luck is the intersection of preparation.
- Work platforms, railings, steps, and catwalks must be inspected prior to the starting of operations.
- All manhole cover or booby hatches to be closed while container lashing.
- Be careful while walking over the rods and twist locks while working. Always keep the lashing equipment in their assigned place or side of the walking path.
- Follow the order of operations for lashing and unlashing.
- The reefer containers require extra attention and coordination for plugging and unplugging when loading or unloading is carried out.