Code No: 788
Video Running Time: 25 minutes
The transport of chilled or frozen cargoes in refrigerated
containers, or reefer units, is a large and steadily growing
business. Most container ships can now provide the necessary power
supply and some modern ships are able to carry in excess of 1000
reefer units.
These units provide a regulated temperature and humidity and, in
many cases, a controlled atmosphere as well. They provide the
optimum conditions for the carriage of meat, fish, fruit, dairy
produce, flowers and other perishable cargoes. During their time on
board it is essential that these containers are monitored regularly
to ensure that the conditions in which the cargoes are carried
match those specified on the cargo manifest such that the cargoes
reach their destination undamaged.
This training package explains the different types of reefer
container operation, including Cold Treatment, Controlled
Atmosphere, and Super Freezer, and the procedures that should be
followed in order to ensure correct operation. The different
components of the reefer container are indicated using animation,
and the refrigerant cycle is explained. Although the crews on board
are not responsible for container stuffing, the need for correct
stuffing is emphasised as this can affect the ability of the reefer
unit to maintain the correct conditions.
Where faults develop during transit it is important that
immediate action is taken to try and rectify the problem and the
booklet contains a simple fault-finding checklist and guide to
possible repairs.
The safe carriage of these cargoes, many of which have high
value, is important for all those involved in the supply chain -
the growers or producers, the shipping and other transport
companies, and the final consumer. The regular and documented
inspection of each unit by those on board is critical to ensuring
that no one is disappointed by produce that arrives in poor
condition.
