OSHA proposes allowing vertical tandem container lifts
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has proposed a rule that would permit vertical tandem lifts of empty shipping containers at U.S. ports.
A vertical tandem lift (VTL) is the lifting of two intermodal containers together, one on top of the other, connected by semi-automatic twistlocks.
The proposed rule would allow VTLs of empty containers with a combined weight not exceeding 20 tons.
In a discussion of its proposed rule, OSHA cited a survey by the International Labor Organization concerning the strength of semi-automatic twistlocks. Overall, OSHA concluded: “VTLs can reduce the time it takes to load or unload containers from a ship. The productivity gain is reported to be 5 to 10 percent.”
For now, in U.S. ports, the rule allows only lifting empty containers in a VTL. “The agency is concerned that lifting loaded containers in a VTL presents additional hazards … loaded containers are likely to have more errors in weighing, so it is more likely that an overweight lift will be attempted — one weighing more than 20 tons.” OSHA has asked for additional comments “that pertain to the risk of lifting loaded versus empty containers” before proceeding further.
Comments on OSHA’s proposal allowing VTLs must be submitted by Dec. 15. For more information, contact Paul Rossi, OSHA, Office of Maritime, Directorate of Standards and Guidance, (202) 693-2222.
