Published on April 4, 2014

Chemical handling training has become extremely important for the port sector in order to ensure safe and easy cargo transportation. The port staff must be aware of the risks associated with chemical handling, along with other aspects like segregation, reactions and contamination. To help the port sector succeed in this respect, considerable advances have been made in technological and training fields.

Ports have to know about risks of all handled chemicals in the port. They should be aware of the specifications, quantity and location of all chemicals in the port area. Companies managing hazardous products in the port should also be acquainted with the safety drill in case of an accident.

Chemical handling requires every chemical to be treated individually as different chemicals have different properties, so it’s crucial to keep in mind factors like temperature, toxicity and flammability. Port staff must also ensure that they do not accidentally contaminate chemicals during the handling process; cleanliness is as important as safety.

Segregation of chemicals helps ensuring safe transportation. If chemicals get mixed by accident, they can cause reactions. There are certain chemicals that cannot be stored next to each other. Ports should also bear in mind other factors like facilities and equipment to guarantee safe handling. Ports handling chemicals in bulk should have safe berths and jetties for tankers and the required safety equipment.

It’s important for ports to have a safety drill or emergency response plans to deal with accidents effectively and quickly. As a result of technological advances, manual chemical handling should be limited to a bare minimum. Technological innovation helps ensure safe chemical handling and minimises risks of contamination to the chemicals.

Technology has helped to create a system that can warn port operators of any danger just by pressing a button. The emergency stop button can ensure safety of port operators by warning them in a timely manner. Other safety features like high/ low flow/pressure alarms and trips have also been developed. Ports now have access to sensors that monitor emissions around the jetty which are routed back to the control room. The sensors can detect any danger and warn port operators by sounding alarms. In the event of high pressure, the loading operation will be stopped by anautomated trip. Many ports have also installed analysers and cameras for additional safety.

Technology and machines do guarantee safety but trained manpower is equally important. Training programmes have become very important and help port staff hone their skills. There are courses in chemical logistics management that includes legislation, storage, packing, emergency responses etc.

Training programme on chemical handling provides an introduction to the terminal, ways to assess environmental risks of a products and emergency procedures. Product hazard data sheets provide detailed information about the properties of every chemical and safety requirements for each product.

Training programmes have helped develop chemical handling into an efficient process. Refresher courses held every 3-5 years help established members of the workforce to remain up to date with the latest trends, procedures and rules.

Chemical handling has become more efficient, all thanks to technological innovations and comprehensive training programmes.