Information
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Risks in Sea Containers
Sea containers are widely recognized as posing Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) risks, traditionally attributed to fumigation practices. However, recent research provides a more nuanced understanding: container cargo itself is often the primary source of hazardous gases found inside containers. These gases are released into the container air, mixing with breathable air. In certain cases, cargo spillovers and even container construction materials can contribute to OHS hazards.
Key Risk Factors
The most critical protective measure against gas exposure is adequate ventilation. Ventilation time, however, is a major challenge, as it depends on multiple variables, including:
- Ambient temperature
- Air humidity
- Container filling level
- Wind conditions
- Gas properties such as molecular weight and boiling point in liquid phase (e.g., methyl bromide, with a boiling point just below +4 °C)
Moreover, many gases tend to penetrate into the cargo itself, creating additional risks along the logistics chain.
Preventive Measures
To ensure safe conditions inside containers, it is essential not only to ventilate effectively but also to eliminate the sources of gas emissions. This prevents air quality from deteriorating back to toxic levels after ventilation has taken place.
Research-Based Insights
The findings described above, along with several other critical phenomena, have been systematically studied. The results have been translated into practical eLearning courses, informational flyers, and OHS guidelines, providing actionable tools for improving workplace safety.