Loading/discharge of a roll trailer
- Attending OPERATORS representative or Local agent and Vessel Master shall be notified before Heavy- Lift, or any heavy roll trailer exits or enters the ship's stern ramp.
- When necessary, have the external ramp lowered as much as possible to minimize the ramp angle before the roll trailer enters the ramp.
- One or more signalmen shall assist and guide the forklift/tug- master driver.
- Make sure that two (2) safety chains are connected between the trailer and the gooseneck. This is extra important on empty or light loaded Rolltrailer handling.
- If safety chains are not used, a SOP has to be in place to ascertain safe handling. The SOP is to be confirmed and approved, before operation of roll trailers, by the regional Cargo Quality department.
- Extra care shall be taken when crossing gantry crane tracks and other uneven surfaces on the wharf.
- Trailers should be kept close to the ground in order to avoid grounding the trailer, the height of the fifth wheel should be adjusted when going up and down ramps.
- Sharp turns should also be avoided in terminals.
- Drive at a slow and safe speed (max 5km/h).
- Approach and enter all ramps/bumps and dips at a straight direction.
- All transport should use the lowest gear when transiting the vessel's ramp. (External and internal)
- Always ensure that the ramp and deck heights are sufficient for the trailer and its cargo. The person in charge of the transport shall, when transport enters/exits vessel's ramps/decks, determine that there is adequate clearance on both sides of the transport as well as between the cargo and ceiling.