PROC-001 | Shipping Container Receival & Unloading Procedure | Version 1.0 | February 2026

Purpose

To ensure the safe receival and unloading of shipping containers, managing the significant hazards associated with this task.

Scope

All workers involved in receiving and unloading shipping containers at [YOUR BUSINESS NAME].

Hazards

Falling cargo when container doors are opened

Unstable or poorly stacked loads inside containers

Extreme heat inside containers (can exceed 60°C in Queensland summer)

Fumigation chemicals (methyl bromide, phosphine) — containers may still contain residual gas

Forklift and pedestrian interaction

Manual handling injuries

Slips on wet or uneven surfaces

Required PPE

Steel-capped safety boots

Hi-vis vest

Hard hat

Safety glasses

Gloves (for manual handling)

Sunscreen and hat (outdoor work)

Procedure

Before the Container Arrives

Step 1: Check the delivery schedule and ensure the unloading area is clear of pedestrians and obstructions. Step 2: Ensure the forklift is pre-started and checked (see CHECK-001). Step 3: Confirm the fumigation status of the container. If the container has been fumigated, a Fumigation Certificate must be provided and the container must be ventilated for the required period before entry.

When the Container Arrives

Step 4: Direct the truck driver to the designated unloading area. Ensure the truck is positioned correctly and the brakes are applied. Step 5: Place wheel chocks under the truck's rear wheels. Step 6: Establish a pedestrian exclusion zone around the container and truck. No pedestrians within 3 metres of the container doors.

Opening the Container

Step 7: Stand to the side of the container doors — never directly in front. Open one door at a time. Step 8: Inspect the cargo from the doorway before entering. Look for:

Unstable or leaning loads

Damaged packaging

Spills or leaks

Signs of fumigation (smell, dead insects, warning labels)

Step 9: If the cargo appears unstable, do not enter. Contact your supervisor. Step 10: If fumigation is suspected, do not enter. Ventilate the container for a minimum of 1 hour and test the atmosphere before entry.

Unloading

Step 11: Use the forklift to unload palletised cargo. Follow the Forklift Operating Procedure (PROC-002). Step 12: For manual unloading, follow the Manual Handling Procedure (PROC-004). Step 13: Do not allow workers inside the container while the forklift is operating. Step 14: Check the temperature inside the container before workers enter. If temperature exceeds 35°C, implement heat stress controls (see POL-014). Step 15: Inspect goods for damage as they are unloaded. Record any damage on the Goods Receival Form.

After Unloading

Step 16: Remove wheel chocks and release the truck. Step 17: Dispose of packaging materials in the correct waste streams. Step 18: Complete the Goods Receival & Dispatch Record. Related Documents: PROC-002, PROC-004, SWMS-001, CHECK-001, POL-014 | Legislation: WHS Act 2011 (Qld); Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace