Malfunctioning of a reefer container

Problem

This case focuses on the malfunction of a reefer container, due to variance in temperature.

Analysis

A reefer container with perishable cargo was being exported. At the Trans-shipment port it was noticed that the container was malfunctioning; also due to temperature variance, ice formation was visible.  If the ice had built up to the T-Floor (ventilation flap), then reworking would have become a necessity, which could have resulted not only in the deterioration of the perishable cargo, but could also have led to huge potential losses.

Goodrich solution

Immediately on being informed about the malfunctioning, a Goodrich technician instructed his Trans-shipment Port counterpart to remove the reefer machinery, and assess the heater chamber and air stream, to help clear the clogged ice.  The ice built up to the T-Floor was averted. The container was repaired by the port and the unit started maintaining the desired temperature.

A Surveyor was arranged to ensure that cargo temperature  was maintained at the time of repairs, and the cargo was loaded on the vessel as per plan.

Process Integration initiated

A SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) was initiated as a guideline.