There is a lack of quick action by the stevedores to keep away from the slings of un-hooked container. No designated signal man is assigned on board during container handling operation. Adequate and appropriate safety measures have not been taken to ensure safe operations of stevedores on top of the containers. Inexperienced and untrained Stevedores are engaged in the operations. Safety awareness of the whole team of stevedores is generally poor.
Stevedores have to work long hours with inadequate rest and reduced manning.
These incidents can be avoided by observing the following practices. The stack of containers on dumb lighters should not exceed more than 3-tiers high above deck. While loading or unloading of containers, from the barges or vessels, avoid the formation of a single high stack among adjacent stacks which will limit the space for the stevedore to work. Simultaneous raising or lowering of container stacks provide, more working space on container tops for the stevedores to work safely during loading or discharging of containers. Stop or interrupt the container handling operations if the sea is choppy, caused due to passing harbour traffic or during inclement weather.