Publications

ICHCA International has developed an extensive range of specialist publications on best practice in cargo handling operations. With more than 90 documents covering health and safety guidance, technical and operational practicalities, regulatory requirements and more, the ICHCA library represents a valuable repository of cargo handling expertise.

Publications are free to download for ICHCA members or can be purchased individually by non-members by contacting secretariat@ichca.com

Guidance on Ammonium Nitrate fire risks on board ships (2022)

This document provides an introduction to Ammonium Nitrate fire risk on board ships. For detailed advice it is necessary to read this in conjunction with relevant national and international legislation and guidance. ...

BP1: ILO Convention 152

The International Labour Organization is the UN agency dealing with employment and social justice and works through adopting Conventions which are ratified by member nations and incorporated into national laws. As such, it has adopted Conventions on health and safety in dock work since 1929 and, in June 1979, adopted Convention 152. This is the current Convention and is the basis for national dock safety laws. The newer Convention updated the safety measures contained in the previous Convention 32...

BP2: Ships' Lifting Plant

Ships’ lifting plant comprises lifting appliances and lifting gear carried on board a ship and used for the discharge and loading of cargo. Many ports still rely on lifting plant to carry out this work. Where port personnel are required to drive/operate such equipment, a check should be made of the gear register and of the gear itself, regarding whether the lifting plant is safe to use before operations commence. The use of unsuitable or unsafe lifting plant has resulted in the death and injuries...

BP3: The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the specialised United Nations agency with responsibility for international maritime affairs. As such, it is responsible for the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code). The Code deals with packaged dangerous goods and this briefing pamphlet gives a concise summary of the most important aspects of the IMDG Code and how to use it. Since January 2004, the IMDG Code has been mandatory and all member states who are signatories to the IMO’s...

BP4: Classification Societies

A Classification Society makes comprehensive Classification Rules for vessel hull structural design and essential shipboard engineering systems and applies them by means of appraisal of the design and survey of the ship and its systems. Compliance with the rules entitles a ship to be “classed”. A Classification Society’s main purpose is to ensure the continued seaworthiness of all ships “classed” under its rules. BP4 informs the reader about the many aspects pertaining to Classification...

BP5: Container Terminal Safety

This Briefing Pamphlet is intended to give general guidance for use within all container terminals. The majority of serious accidents in container terminals are due to the mixing of people and heavy machinery, the drivers of which often have restricted visibility. As a general basic principle the aim should be to avoid such mixing. When this cannot be done, exposure should be minimised and controlled. BP5 gives advice on entering and leaving terminals, container reception, road systems, lighting...

BP6: Emergency Plans

This provides guidance on the preparation and implementation of emergency plans and procedures for port and harbour areas, as well as terminals. It is based upon the experience and knowledge of various members of ICHCA’s ISP Technical Panel and the results of a survey conducted for the Panel. Emergency plans will be concerned with three factors: The hazard, nature and extent of the possible event The risk and probability of occurrence The consequences and the possible effect on people and the...

BP7: Safe Cleaning of Freight Containers

The internal cleanliness of freight containers is very important if hazards are to be avoided. This pamphlet considers the requirements for the safe cleaning of general purpose, insulated and refrigerated (reefer) containers. The specialised requirements for tank containers are not covered. This publication covers: residues, the identification of residues, cleaning operations, IICL / ICS “General Guide for Container Cleaning,” cleaning methods, and conclusions. Date: 2006 (2nd edition) | ISBN:...

BP8: Safe Working On Container Ships

BP8 is written as general guidance for use in connection with stevedoring operations on container ships. The pamphlet covers general responsibilities, access and egress from places of work, starting and finishing work, container top working, use of fall prevention or fall arrest systems, semi-automatic twistlocks, working in adverse conditions and emergencies. This publication is currently under review. Date: 1994 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-114-8 ...

BP9: Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers

This booklet has been prepared to serve as a general guide to the safe use of flexible intermediate bulk containers manufactured from woven fabric. Typical examples are illustrated in the pamphlet. Guidance is provided on many general aspects of FIBCs. including special considerations concerning the use of FIBCs for the transport of dangerous goods, selection of FIBCs, safety checks, filling and emptying, transport of FIBCs and stacking and storage of filled FIBCs. Written in conjunction with the...

BP10: Safe Working at Ro-Ro Terminals

This Briefing Pamphlet is written as a general guide for use within all types of roll-on, roll-off terminals. The majority of serious accidents in ro-ro terminals are due to the mixing of people with heavy mobile machinery, the drivers of which often have restricted visibility. In view of the mixed nature of groups working on ro-ro decks (seamen, lashers, cargo handlers, etc.), close cooperation between all parties is essential. This publication concentrates on general responsibilities, terminal...

BP11: International Convention for Safe Containers

Following the rapid increase of the use of freight containers for the transport of goods by sea in the 1960s, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the 1972 Convention for Safe Containers (CSC 1972). The Convention was amended in 1981, 1983 and 1991 and these amendments are fully in force. This Briefing Pamphlet details: The history, objectives, scope, approval and testing of containers Safety approval plates Maintenance and inspection Control disputes One-way trip containers One...

BP12: Safety Audit Systems for Ports

There are many reasons why the management of a port company should carry out a safety audit of a part, or all, of its organisation. The purpose of an audit is to highlight the risks that are present and to identify their underlying causes. This Briefing Pamphlet illustrates how to do this. It also indicates the organisational and procedural measures that need to be taken to deal with the risks. The contents of this briefing pamphlet detail the management of safety, what is a safety audit, why audit,...

BP13: The Loading and Unloading of Solid Bulk Cargoes

Every year some six billion tonnes of solid bulk cargoes pass through the world’s ports. In the last twenty years there has been increasing concern at the number of bulk carriers that have been lost at sea and the associated loss of life. The IMO Code of Practice for the Safe Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers (the BLU Code) was approved by IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) and adopted by the 20th Assembly of IMO in November 1997. The Code emphasises the need for co-operation between...

BP14: The Role of the Independent Marine Surveyor

This booklet deals with surveyors and companies that operate generally in private practice, without ties to a parent company or an organisation, and are in position to accept instructions from any party on a first-come-first-served basis. The pamphlet gives general guidance and covers: Definitions The role of the surveyor Survey reports The claim and the claim process The role of P&I (Protection and Indemnity) clubs Specific involvement with hazardous substances and dangerous cargoes Date:...

BP15: Substance Abuse in the Workplace

Substance abuse is defined as the use of mind-altering or mood-changing substances. The use of illegal drugs or the misuse of legal drugs or alcohol can significantly affect the safe performance of workers. Substance abuse by workers in the cargo handling world can lead to potentially catastrophic consequences, with sophisticated equipment such as container gantry cranes, straddle carriers, top loaders, terminal tractors and lift trucks requiring alert and skilled operators who must be able to focus...

BP16: Safe Use of Textile Slings

The last twenty years have seen a massive increase in the use of textile slings, particularly when used for ‘pre-slinging’ cargo, as shippers, receivers, charterers and port handling organisations strive to achieve the lowest possible operating costs. In the same period the use of slings made from natural fibres has reduced to a very low figure, with their place being taken by products made from man-made fibres. This pamphlet takes into account the changes over the last twenty years and the new...

BP17: Linkspans and Walkways

This Briefing Pamphlet is intended to provide an introduction to the safety issues that arise from the operation and maintenance of shore ramps and walkways, which are unique structures designed and provided by the shoreside but used extensively by shipping. Incidents have occurred and guidance is given on typical incidents, the purchase process for shore ramps and walkways, operational practices, and maintenance systems. Date: 2011 (2nd edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-105-6 ...

BP18: Port State Control

Port State Control (PSC) is the international system for the inspection of cargo ships in national ports, for the purpose of verifying that the condition of the ship and its equipment comply with the requirements of certain international maritime conventions and that the ship is manned and operated in compliance with applicable national laws. There are now PSC agreements covering all the major sea areas of the world and BP18 gives guidance on topics including: Flag state responsibility vs. port...

BP20: Unseen Dangers in Freight Containers

This Briefing Pamphlet is intended to raise awareness of the dangers for personnel that may exist inside freight containers. Workers should be aware not only of the danger of poorly stowed cargo inside a container, that can fall as the containers doors are opened, but also the potential of being overwhelmed by toxic fumes from fumigants or other gases inside the container. BP20 gives guidance on experiences, why cargo is fumigated in freight containers, how and where fumigation is carried out and...

BP21: Stow it Right!

The purpose of BP21 is to facilitate the proper loading and securing of cargo in freight containers. The information in this pamphlet will serve as a guide to planning the loading of cargo so that its shipment will be safe and its integrity maintained until it gets to the consignee. The pamphlet will also help in the prevention of damage to containers and their cargoes when travelling by road, rail and particularly by ship. It gives guidance on: Choosing the container Container constructions Forces...

BP23: Safe Handling of Forest Products

Transporting forest products around the world is one of the major maritime trades and involves terminal handling, stevedoring, and carriage by sea. These functions, and the way they interact, are described in this Briefing Pamphlet. It sets down some general principles of safety and good practice in the handling of forest products, both onboard and ashore. Contents include: Terminal stacking Handling and safety Safe loading Stowing and discharging of lift on / lift off vessels Safe loading Stowing...

BP24: Safe Use of Road Vehicle Twistlocks

This pamphlet gives guidance on the safe use of road vehicle twistlocks, the different types available, their applications and minimum maintenance standards. It is the responsibility of the trailer or chassis manufacturer to ensure that the twistlocks fitted meet both the maximum load requirements and any operating requirements of the country that they will be operating in. The contents cover design features, categories, function, securement, safety checks before use, operation, special considerations...

BP25: An Illustrated Guide to Container Marking Codes

A container type and size is depicted by the series of numbers in the upper right hand corner of the container’s right hand door. Of course if the container was right in front of you, the size and type could be ascertained by just walking around it. However, as most of the time there is only a manifest, other shipping document or EDI transmission, you need to know the ISO numbering system to understand what type of container you are dealing with. This Briefing Pamphlet details the status of codes,...

BP26: Safe Handling of Bulk Liquids and Gases at the Ship/Shore Interface

Statistics for incidents involving bulk liquids and gases in tankers show that these occur more frequently in port than at sea or in confined waters. This is a very significant statistic for tankers who spend only a small proportion of their time in port. So the risk of an incident occurring while a vessel is in port is greater than at any other time during its operational life. The purpose of this publication is to give a brief introduction and an appreciation of the subject to those who are not...

BP27: Safe Working with Pallets

One of the first major changes in cargo handling came with the advent of the pallet. This pamphlet concentrates on the pre-use inspection, handling and maintenance routines which should be standard practice for those who own and handle pallets, including stevedore-owned pallets as well as shipper-owned multi-use and one-trip pallets. Risks come from a variety of causes such as poor pallet design and construction, unsuitable use, improper handling, use of a previously damaged pallet or use in an unsuitable...

BP28: Safe Slinging

This Briefing Pamphlet deals with correct methods for slinging loads. While containerisation has replaced much general cargo handling, there is still a considerable need for the knowledge and equipment to carry out slinging. BP28 covers regulations, slinging materials, slinging equipment, the general principles of slinging, including mode factors, and care and maintenance of slings. This BP is supplemented by Safety Guides IIL/5 and IIL/6. Date: 2009 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1- 85330-012-7 ...

BP29: Loading Logs from Water in British Columbia

Loading logs into ships is a stevedoring operation that has not changed significantly since timber became an export commodity. One fact has remained a constant over the years: log loading operations have a high rate of personal injury. However, due to the implementation of a systematic training programme and improved equipment, the rate of injury dramatically decreased in 2005 and 2006 in the region covered by this pamphlet. The purpose of this pamphlet is to provide guidelines on handling this cargo....

BP30: Safe Handling of Tank Containers

In the freight container industry the term “tank container” usually refers to a 20ft tank container consisting of a stainless steel pressure vessel supported and protected within a steel frame. Containers are often thought just to carry dangerous goods. This is far from the truth, as “tank containers” covers a number of containment designs suitable for a range of hazardous and non-hazardous iquid bulk commodities. Tank containers come in various sizes, can be pressurised or non-pressurised....

BP31: Safe Operation of Passenger Terminals

General safety considerations and a safe system of work are important issues at marine terminals that involve the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers, bearing in mind that passengers are members of the public and will not be aware of the hazards of ports and harbours. This Briefing Pamphlet considers the basic requirements associated with the safe operation of such facilities. As each facility presents its own unique characteristics of design and operation, care should be exercised in adapting...

BP32: Safe Use of Cargo Strapping for Lifting Purposes

The trend towards unitisation and unit lifting methods has been driven by the need for better and simpler handling systems, improved productivity, damage free transportation and cost reduction generally. To compete with other handling systems such as containers, pallets, and lifting slings, many products are strapped together to form units such as aluminium ingots, bales of woodpulp, plywood, waste paper, steel tubes, billets etc. These units may then be handled individually by conventional methods...

BP33: Safe Working with Reefer Containers

Refrigerated containers (reefers) are used to transport goods at a constant temperature either above or below freezing and this is an increasing trade. Refrigerated goods are transported by land, sea and air through container terminals, loading and transfer stations, railway stations, ports, airports, warehouses and onboard ships. There is a wide variety of equipment to reduce the risks associated with plugging and unplugging reefer containers to electrical power supplies. Some include controls involving...

BP34: Container Top Safety

This Briefing Pamphlet has been developed in response to the IMO adopting and publishing its MSC 1/circ.1352 in 2010 on the safe lashing of deck containers. It therefore aims at dealing with the issues of container top working as referenced in that circular. In part it replaces RP4 Container Top Safety, but not completely: there are some aspects of that Research Paper that are still relevant and not dealt with in this publication. BP34 is intended to complement BP35 in giving guidance arising from...

BP35: Provisions for the Safe Lashing of Deck Containers

BP35 is written to complement BP34. In a report to IMO in 2005, the United Kingdom included the following executive summary: “Although containerisation has greatly improved the safety of cargo handling, cargo related accidents to ships’ crews and dockworkers continue. Research in the United Kingdom has shown that some 40% of accidents to dockworkers occur onboard ships and the majority of these are related to lashing activities on container ships. In many cases the design layout of the lashing...

BP36: Safe Working with Straddle Carriers

As of 2011, there were approximately 60 container terminals worldwide equipped with straddle carriers. Straddle carriers remain in use due to their mobility and flexibility, but they are much larger, heavier, higher and faster than other mobile machinery. They are therefore specialist items of equipment which require driving skills not found on any other equipment. This means that drivers have to separately learn to operate and control such machines and the implications for their safe operation have...

BP38: Safe Handling of Flexitanks in General Purpose Freight Containers

This Briefing Pamphlet provides best practice guides for flexitank testing, container selection, flexitank manufacture and installation, flexitank / container combination (FCC) handling, stowage recommendations, cleaning and disposal. Date: 2011 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-035-6 ...

BP #41 - Safe Handling and Operation of Platform Flats

This Briefing Pamphlet provides detailed information concerning the loading and securing of cargoes on platform flats and flatrack containers, which are generally used to carry oversize or project cargoes that cannot be packed into standard box type ISO freight containers. It also details the various types of units that are available for this purpose and their key handling features. This pamphlet updates and replaces the former BP19, which covered the safe lifting of interlocked platform flats and...

BP42: Guidance on the safe use of container lifting lugs

This Briefing Pamphlet has been developed jointly with LEEA as means of offering a general guidance to the variety of container lifting lugs available and their safe use. Date: 2016 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-042-4 ...

Research Papers

The ICHCA Research Papers document detailed research on health and safety matters affecting cargo handling operations.

Research Papers are free to download for ICHCA members or can be purchased individually by non-members by contacting ICHCA Secretariat: secretariat@ichca.com

RP2: Fumes in Ships Holds

Disquiet had been expressed for some time in the private and public sectors about the possible health effects arising from employees working in the holds of ships where vehicle exhaust fumes were regularly found. Various research projects had been carried out in a number of countries and some work had been developed by the IMO. In addition, various countries had introduced laws or guidance aimed at controlling exposure of individuals to fumes in holds and, reflecting wider environmental considerations,...

RP3: Health & Safety Assessments in Ports

This Research Paper was developed in the light of experience with modern techniques and assessments of occupational health and safety performance in the industry. Some new elements have been included in this revised edition, taking into consideration developments in safety management systems. The assessment emphasises the systematic work of analysing and it is intended for persons who work with health and safety matters in ports. ICHCA’s ISP Technical Panel hopes that the publication of this booklet...

RP5: Port and Terminal Accident Statistics

This Research Paper reviews the collation of work accidental statistics and methodologies used by enforcement authorities and ports and terminals around the world. It highlights the lack of common standards. As a direct result of this Research Paper, the ISP introduced its confidential annual International Container Terminal Accident Benchmark Scheme. Date: 2008 (2nd edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-101-8 ...

RP6: Safe Handling of Radioactive Materials

This Research Paper was written as a review of the subject of receiving and handling class 7 cargoes and gives guidance on the actions that should be taken to ensure safety and health in their handling. Date: 2001 | ISBN: 978-1-85330-102-5 ...

RP7: Ship Design Considerations for Stevedore Safety

This Research Paper is concerned with design and construction aspects of ships so as to provide a safe place of work for stevedores and crew when lashing and handling cargo. The planning and design of a ship is the critical stage, as it is difficult to make substantial amendments after the ship has been built. RP7 is based on ILO Convention 152 “Occupational Safety and Health in Dock Work“ and ILO Code of Practice “Safety and Health in Ports.” It has now been substantially replaced by BP34...

RP8: Safe Walkways in Port & Terminal Areas

It has long been recognised that safe means of access and egress for persons working in, or passing through, ports and terminals are essential. Following the introduction of modern, mechanised methods of cargo handling and fatal and serious accidents, it became obvious that there was a need to separate persons from vehicles. The provision of suitably designated and signed walkways is one way of achieving this separation. Persons using walkways include stevedores and other port and terminal employees,...

RP9: Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing

While accident prevention covers a wide variety of actions to ensure that the person at work is safe, there is a specific need for personal protective equipment (PPE). This is concerned with protecting the individual in situations where a safe method of work would benefit from the individual being protected or highlighted. Wherever possible, a safe place strategy is preferable to a safe person strategy. The provision of personal protection such as safety boots and ear defenders should be seen as...

RP10: Back Pain

In 2002 the stevedoring company Hesse – Noord Natie (HNN), based in Antwerp, Belgium was confronted with a serious shortage of container crane drivers due to a very high level of absenteeism. The main reasons for this absenteeism were physical neck and back conditions of the drivers. The company and its Service for Industrial Medicine were looking for ways to tackle the situation, with the aim of reducing the causal conditions and decreasing this absenteeism. It was decided to develop a project...

RP11: Lifting People at Work for Cargo Handling Purposes

With the introduction of new techniques of cargo movements and cargo handling, it has become increasingly necessary for people to work at height. Getting them up there, providing a safe platform to work from, and getting them down again safely is crucial. Traditional methods, such as portable ladders, are now recognised as unsafe over certain heights and increasingly mechanical means, such as hoists, are being used. Some of this equipment is primarily intended for cargo handling rather than lifting...

RP12: Whole Body Vibration

A high incidence of lower back pain among plant operators has been recognised for some time. Lower back pain can be attributed to a number of factors, but one of these is exposure to whole body vibration. With the advent of a European Directive and national legislation in Europe to control whole body vibration as a physical agent capable of causing or exacerbating injury, the port industry needs to understand the stressor itself, how to assess the risks, how to recognise its effects, how to comply...

RP13: Lifting Containers by Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes

Following a number of reports of accidents involving container lifting operations by rubber tyred gantry cranes (RTGs), the ISP Technical Panel decided to ascertain whether this was an international issue or one confined to a few terminals. The issue concerned lifting containers from road vehicles by RTGs such that the road vehicle was inadvertently lifted as well. Damage to the RTG, spreader, road vehicle, and bodily injury are all potential outcomes of such an incident. The aim of this research...

RP14: Lashing of Containers

This report was produced to enable a summary to be made of the feedback from a survey conducted in the latter part of 2006 and was submitted to IMO to aid its work on this subject. It did not cover the full findings but included information that was most likely to be of interest. As all statistics are not included in this report the data should not be taken in isolation. The survey questionnaire was developed in conjunction with Loughborough University in the United Kingdom. It was circulated to...

RP15: Terminal Operations in High Wind Conditions

The International Safety Panel (ISP) decided that research was necessary before embarking on the development of a publication on the subject of high winds, their impact on terminal operations and practical measures that can and should be taken to minimise their effects. Whilst this was being prepared TT Club developed a publication called “Windstorm” arising from experience of a number of severe high wind damages. Once the ISP research had been completed and analysed it was decided that ICHCA...

RP16: Crane Driver Ergonomics

Together with crane drivers, management of container ports and scientific institutes, Merford Cabins, which has been a supplier for 40 years, is continuously studying the working circumstances of crane drivers to develop better solutions. This Research Paper shows the results of different practical studies and biomechanical analyses of crane drivers’ postures done by Merford and TNO Work and Employment as a scientific institute. It details the problem, development solutions, specific crane characteristics,...

Information Papers

Information Papers are free to download.

Information Paper 59

Update on the use of FATs in VTL operations ...

Information Paper 60

Amendment 36-12 to the IMDG Code 19th December 2021 ...

Information Paper 61

Snap-Back of ultra-high modulus polyethylene fibre mooring lines. ...

Information Paper 62

Storage of Dangerous Cargoes in Port Areas ...

Information Paper 63

Counterfeit Crosby Shackles: Update 14th March 2016 ...

Information Paper 64

Counterfeit Crosby Shackles: Update ...

Information Paper 65

Verified Gross Mass of Freight Containers and IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1548 issued 27th May 2016 ...

Information paper 66

SPECIAL ITP WORKING GROUPS DATE: 30th July 2018 ...

Information paper 67

SAFETY ALERT: RTG Fall DATE: 3rd Feb 2020 Subject: Safety Alert from Hutchison Ports ...

Information Paper 69

Ship-Port Interface Guide (Practical Measures to Reduce GHG) 22nd April 2021 ...

Technical Series

This advice series provides specific guidance on technical and operational issues.

The papers in the Technical Series are free to download for ICHCA members or can be purchased individually by non-members by contacting: secretariat@ichca.com

TOA1: Vertical Tandem Lifting of Freight Containers

ISO amended its ISO 3874 in 2000 so as to permit up to three containers being lifted together, linked in a vertical line. As the same time, realising that there will be safe systems of work associated with the decision, ISO’s Technical Committee 104 invited ISP to develop appropriate advice. This invitation was accepted and this document was the result. This paper was developed by a working group of the ISP with two rounds of formal consultation, together with consultations with relevant international...

TOA1A: Vertical Tandem Lifting Checklist

This addendum to TOA1 consists of a checklist to aid implementation of any VTL system. Date: 2004 | ISBN: 978-1-85330-121-6 ...

TOA2: Horizontal Lashings of 40ft and 45ft Freight Containers

The introduction of 45ft containers has, for many port and terminal operators, raised new challenges, with particular regard to lashing access and methods on board vessels. These containers and the introduction of the 9ft 6in containers exacerbates the problem. Unfortunately when it comes to the practicality of lashing on board ships, cargo securing manuals often offer little guidance as to how the lashing can be safely accomplished, if accomplished at all. TAO2 provides concise guidelines, and gives...

TOA3: Guidelines for Lifting Persons for Cargo Handling Purposes in the Port Industry

The traditional method of gaining access for work activities or to reach a place of work was the portable ladder but, as the heights that needed to be accessed increased and the locations varied, it became increasingly clear that such equipment was very limited and potentially unsafe. This was the outcome of RP11. This document highlights that the use of personnel carriers attached to cranes and other cargo handling equipment is the most effective and efficient way of accessing difficult areas on...

General Series

The General Series is concerned with aspects that are not covered by the other three series, and provides information, guidance and research.

The papers in this series are free to download for ICHCA members or can be purchased individually by non-members by contacting ICHCA Secretariat: secretariat@ichca.com

GS1: Guidelines for Shipping Packaged Dangerous Goods by Sea

With packaged dangerous goods constituting up to 10% of all containerised cargoes, it is important that the provisions of the IMO’s International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code are followed by all those in the marine chain, and that starts with the originator of the cargo. This document gives comprehensive advice to shippers and consolidators as to their role in ensuring compliance with the IMDG Code. Date: 2006 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-119-3 ...

GS2: Fire Fighting in Ports and on Ships

Fires - whether on the port premises or on ships alongside, at anchorage or even entering port - are an ever present possibility and all ports and terminals will have emergency plans to deal with them. Some ports have in-port facilities while others will rely upon the local fire fighting service. Whichever applies, this document gives expert guidance on all the aspects to be considered, including equipment, manpower, training and areas to be covered. Date: 2008 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-004-2 ...

GS3: Windstorm II - Joint Publication with TT Club

Storm damage accounts for some of the biggest losses in the marine and inland terminal industry. In partnership with TT Club, ICHCA has produced a substantially revised risk management guide to assist operators manage the risk and prevent losses relating to wind storms. This guide brings together the shared knowledge and experience of operators and experts in managing storm damage, in collaboration with ICHCA’s ISP Technical Panel. This document in part came out of the research detailed in RP15. Date:...

GS4: Organisation of Gear Stores - Joint Publication with the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association

Every cargo operation needs and uses lifting gear and, whether it is a small number of items or runs into thousands, it needs to be looked after and maintained in a safe condition. This document gives detailed advice on how this can be achieved, including how to run a suitable gear store. It is published jointly with ICHCA’s corporate member, the Lifting Equipment Engineers’ Association (LEEA). The LEEA is a leading representative body for all those involved in the lifting industry worldwide. Date:...

GS5: Ships’ Crews Coming Ashore at Operational Terminals

With modern cargo terminals operating fast, mobile machinery, it is not safe for persons to enter the operational area on foot unless in a controlled condition. Ships’ crews coming ashore need to get safely from the quayside to the roadside, and the reverse, and it is for the terminal to provide a safe way for this to be done. Some provide safe walkways, while others provide a shuttle bus. This document advises on provisions that the terminal should make and also gives advice to ships’ officers...

GS6: Medical Standards for Terminal Equipment Drivers

GS6 aims to identify and discuss the basic elements of procedures and content of a driver’s fitness assessment. This document aims primarily to support physicians and other health professionals who make such assessments. Date: 2011 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-036-3 ...

GS7: Recommended Minimum Safety Specifications for Quay Container Cranes - Joint Publication with PEMA and TT Club

This document lists the minimum safety features which the joint sponsors believe should be provided as standard on any quayside container crane and which should be included in any specification. Date: 2019 (2nd edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-034-9 ...

GS8: The Importance of Maintenance: A Handbook for Non Engineers - Joint Publication with TT Club

Asset management is of great importance to any business. Maintenance - the maintaining and monitoring of assets - is an integral and important part of asset management. This document addresses issues relating to the maintentance of infrastructure and equipment in a port facility. Date: 2012 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-0-9562704-3-6 ...

GS9: Recommended Minimum Safety Features for Container Yard Equipment - Joint Publication with PEMA and TT Club

Intended for use both by users and suppliers of yard equipment, this publication sets out to provide baseline recommendations for minimum safety features that should be included on the various types of container yard equipment, to help reduce injuries and damage and enable better risk management. The document covers all of the major types of manual and automated container yard equipment, including RTGs (rubber tyred gantry cranes), RMGs (rail mounted gantry cranes), ASCs (automated stacking crane),...

GS10: Collision prevention at ports and terminals

In a bid to improve safety, reduce injuries and loss of life, equipment damage and minimize costly business disruption at ports and terminals worldwide, PEMA, TT Club, and ICHCA International have pooled resources to make available information to promote collision prevention. Date: 2019 (1st edition) ...

Safety & Other Guides

This series of handy pocket-sized cards, prepared by ICHCA International in conjunction with the TT Club, provides safety tips, advice, and information on risk management in cargo handling.

This series is free to download for everyone who subscribes to this website.

IIL/1 & IIL/2: Dangerous Goods by Sea - IMDG Code Requirements for Documentation and Markings 2011

IIL/1 addresses the data that must be included in dangerous goods declarations and illustrates all of the various labels, placards, marks and signs prescribed by the IMDG Code. Date: 2014 ...

IIL/3: Entry into Enclosed Spaces - Ships’ Cargo Spaces

Enclosed spaces, whether small areas or large spaces such as cargo holds with the hatches on, can present various atmospheric hazards to human beings who wish to enter them. This document details the main hazards and the necessary precautions to be taken to ensure safety in enclosed spaces related to cargo in solid bulk cargo ships. Date: 2014 ...

IIL/4: Safe Entry into a Freight Container

A freight container is an enclosed space when the doors are shut. As such, the fumigation of substances or from the cargo itself can give rise to an atmosphere which is hazardous to health. This document describes the dangers and how to ensure that any entry into the container is safe. Date: 2010 ...

IIL/5 & IIL/6: Safe Slinging - Risk Management

These safety cards are aimed particularly at the provision, use and care of slings. The principles of slinging have not changed over the years and they are shown on IIL/5 together with basic considerations and actions to enable the work to be carried out safely. There is a number of differing sling materials in use today – chain, wire rope, fibre rope, flat woven webbing and round – and the safe working loads (SWL) of the various materials as well as the main sizes in use are shown on IIL/5 together...

Environment & Security Series

The Environment Series concentrates on environmental considerations relating to cargo operations and cargo handling. The Security Series builds upon the ISPS Code of the IMO and the guidance given by the ILO on security aboard ships and in ports.

The papers in the Environment and Security Series are free to download for ICHCA members or can be purchased individually by non-members by contacting ICHCA Secretariat: secretariat@ichca.com

ES1: The Basel Convention on the Transboundary Movement of Waste

This document is intended to brief terminal operators on the provisions of this important environmental international provision, what it means for terminals as they are offered relevant cargoes, what actions they should consider and what actions they may have to take. Date: 2011 (1st edition) | ISBN: 978-1-85330-038-7 ...

SS1: Supply Chain Security

The document aims to define the principles of security in the supply chain and to guide all operators in the supply chain on how to enhance value through effective security implementation. It not only promotes good practice but also explains why security need not be seen as an unnecessary drain on resources and can actually provide a significant contribution to the bottom line. The document provides an overview of current security initiatives and technologies available to assist, but is centred on...