As a result of recent injuries and fatalities associated with unloading shipping containers, Victorian OHS authorities are warning organisations to be aware of the risks associated with these work activities and to implement systems to ensure on-hired employee safety is not compromised.

A potential hazard to on-hired employees who undertake tasks associated with unloading shipping containers include exposure to a gas known as methyl bromide (MeBr). The presence of this gas is a result of a shipping container that has been fumigated and ventilated by fumigators. The risks exist due to poor venting procedures, desorption (a substance is released from or through a surface) or entrapment of the gas during packing. Additionally the consequences can be severe as the gas cannot be smelt until at dangerous concentrations.

Depending on the exposure levels the effects can vary. Small amounts may produce the following effects: double vision, tremors, lack of co-ordination and slurred speech. As it is a highly toxic gas, exposure to very high concentrations may cause pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs) and affect other organs. The effects may be fatal.

If you are placing employees in an environment where they may be exposed to or required to undertake work activities involving unloading of shipping containers, then as part of client OHS evaluation you should ensure that the host employer has identified the risk of fumigant exposure and has an adequate procedure to identify and control the risks.

The suggested controls to reduce the risks associated with exposure to methyl bromide in shipping containers include:

• Identify shipping containers that have been fumigated;
• Allocate a designated area where the shipping container can be located. The designated area should be open with good natural ventilation.
• Restrict unauthorised entry to the shipping containing by erecting barricades and warning signs at the entrance and take reasonable care when opening the container to avoid any exposure to MeBr;
• Use a mechanical ventilator for approximately 30 minutes to vent the container prior to entering.
• Venting the container using natural ventilation may be required if mechanical ventilation is not practical. In the case when natural ventilation is the control AS2476 - 2008 General fumigation procedures recommends 12 hours, or use suitable air testing equipment prior to entry to ensure the levels of MeBr are below the national exposure level of 5ppm (parts per million).
• Where the container is packed tightly, partial unpacking should be carried out. Allow the container to vent after each partial unload until the task is completed.