Did you know that the international shipping industry is responsible for carrying nearly 90% of the world’s trade? As seaborne trade continues to drive the global economy, stringent and more comprehensive regulations are implemented periodically, particularly with cargo load restraint. The Australian Load Restraint Guide is vital in this respect.
International safety measures are also in constant review to ensure the safe passage of cargo and crew, which is why the IMO/ILO/UNECE established the Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTU Code) as a guideline for international shipping and transport.
A Heavily Regulated Industry
The maritime shipping industry was one of the first industries in the world to adopt international standards. Due to the danger of being at sea, the shipping industry takes great care to minimise the loss of human lives and property or equipment goods freight each year.
It is essential to safeguard investments, as they have a significant effect on the global economy.
Several regulatory bodies oversee the international shipping industry, namely:
- International Maritime Organisation (IMO) – Responsible for the safety of life at sea and the protection of marine environments.
- International Labour Organisation (ILO) – Responsible for the standards of labour for seafarers.
- International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) – Responsible for developing regulatory practices for maritime shipping.
All three agencies are part of the United Nations. The International Shipping Standards offer a detailed and comprehensive framework of technical regulations, which covers everything from proper ship construction, shipping, load limits, navigation, worker policies and much more.
Securing Cargo
A critical aspect of the International Shipping Standards is the proper securement of cargo for transportation. X-Pak provides a range of strapping toolkits and lashing systems designed to secure various loads for transport that meet codes for Australian and International compliance.
Loads require durable lashing and strapping systems, which help protect the cargo during transport. Shipping containers will often feature various lashing rings or points along the frame and lugs on the top side rails, ready for restraint use. These loops provide an anchor for the cargo to secure it into place.
Workers must also take into consideration the Safe Working Load and Maximum Pull Strength into account. This refers to the amount of stress that a lashing ring can accommodate. Safe working loads for lashing rings typically are about 3 900 kg, though this can vary greatly. A good rule of thumb is calculating the maximum securing load to ensure you are not exceeding the limit.
At X-Pak, our quality load restraint solutions, such as our lashings and strappings, will help ensure you remain compliant with the Australian Load Restraint Guide and IMO/ILO/UNECE CTU international standards. For more information on our products, contact us today.
