Why Container Lashing Is Important For Safety Of Cargo, Carrier, And Crew?

Globalization and technological advancements have put great demand on liner trade, as it is considered one of the fastest and efficient modes of transporting cargo to different locations. As containers have predefined dimensions it is easier to load and unload them using the help of modern lifting operations available at various ports. But with the increasing capacity of container vessels to stack containers on board, there has been a growing concern regarding the safety measures used to secure the containers.  There are many instances where due to lack of proper container lashing, every year many containers fall overboard and spill their cargo into the ocean. The process of securing containers onboard a ship is one of the areas that need to be handled carefully to avoid accidents.

Liner vessels encounter external forces out in the sea that act on the vessel and cargo, causing the movement of containers and are a threat to the ship and its crew. To prevent the movement of containers, lashing and securing them are essential. Specialised lashing and cargo handling systems are used to secure the containers in their places.

A Few Reasons That Make Proper Container Lashing A Necessity Are:

•        Protection of cargo from damage due to heavy winds and weather
•        Protecting carrier from damage
•        Safety of crew  and personnel involved in the loading and unloading of containers
•        The need to comply with laws and regulations set by the concerned authorities
•        Avoiding spillage or debris
•        Prevention of cargo theft
•         Avoiding litigation and clean-up costs

Containers are secured using a combination of lashing rods, twist-locks, bottle screws, container stacker, and much such equipment so that the containers do not move or fall off into the sea during the rough sea or heavy winds. Often a combination of securing methods is used to restrain the containers.

• Reasons That Lead To Lashing Failures Are:
• Failure to foresee severe and adverse weather conditions
• Insufficient knowledge of relevant rules and guiding recommendations for proper securing and lashing of container
• Cost control pressures leading to use of inferior quality of lashing equipment
• Shortage of time and manpower to check and verify lashings
•  Improper usage of the lashing equipment
•  Damages due to improper stuffing of cargo
• Uneven weight distribution and poor lashing techniques

To avoid such costly mistakes, the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code) provides an international standard for the safe stowage and securing of cargoes. It is a set of guidelines that direct what actions can be taken during heavy sea conditions, cargo shifting, and many such situations faced during transportation via sea. In addition, a cargo securing manual (CSM) provides details of all the cargo securing equipment on board the vessel, whether fixed or portable. It is mandatory to have a cargo securing manual on board an ocean vessel.

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Container lashing is the first thing insurance companies audit in case of an accident. When the lashing is not done correctly, the insurance will not cover any damage done to the cargo. Hence, proper container lashing ensures the safe delivery of your cargo.