Sch 8Requirements for specialised handling systems

Schedule 8 Requirements for specialised handling systems

1 In this Schedule, specialised handling system means a method of loading or unloading cargo that employs specialised material handling equipment designed to dispense with manual handling of cargo by sling, tray, tub, pallet or similar cargo gear, including reclaiming devices, conveyor belts and the handling of multiple units connected together by twistlocks, banding or strapping, or similar appliances, that have not been individually tested and marked in accordance with this Order.

2 A specialised handling system must not be used in loading or unloading a ship, unless the person in charge has ensured that appropriate safety precautions are given effect in and near the area of operation of the system to protect all persons against accidental injury arising from its use.

3 For clause 2, appropriate safety precautions include:

(a) fencing, approximately 1 m high, of wooden hurdles or rope stretched taut to be placed on shore at least 3 m from, and on each side of, the path of the load, such that the fenced area extends far enough from the ship’s side to ensure that persons do not inadvertently pass under suspended or swinging loads; and

(b) where ropes are used for fencing, strips of coloured material to be placed at 2 m intervals; and

(c) a warning notice approximately 1 m by 500 mm clearly marked ‘BEWARE—CARGO PASSING OVERHEAD—NO ENTRY’ in prominent lettering to be placed both on the ship and on the shore in conspicuous and adequately illuminated positions; and

(d) the working area in the ship’s cargo space or spaces and on shore to be sufficient to permit persons to move to a place of safety while a load is being hoisted or landed; and

(e) access to the ship to be provided clear of the fenced area.

4 A specialised handling system must not be used in loading or unloading a ship, unless there is made available to the person in charge, the manufacturer’s specification and operating instructions in English, including:

(a) details of the manner by which the safe working load has been established and the safety factor used; and

(b) a description of the method by which cargo should be handled and the mode of operation of any control mechanisms, including the means for cutting off power in an emergency; and

(c) any limitations on the use of the equipment or any of its component parts, and, unless the system is operated in the manner prescribed by, and within the limitations of, the manufacturer’s specification and instructions; and

(d) for limited use wire lifting strappings, a test certificate must be available, in English, describing the manner of the strapping construction and the minimum tensile breaking load obtained for the batch test carried out.