While re-purposing shipping containers for storage can be useful, WorkSafe B.C reminds people it can also pose hazards.
Director of Prevention Field Services, Dan Strand says, they want people to understand that if they are using these containers, they should be aware of what needs to be done to prevent explosions.
“In a lot of cases, we see these particular containers on construction sites, but notwithstanding, they can be in schools, or in agriculture/ farm settings.”
However, Strand says, when the proper precautions aren’t taken, the containers can be dangerous. For example,
“An actual fatality that resulted in 2011 in Enderby. Simply, chainsaws were being stored in this particular container, firefighters were working on a blaze nearby, but the heat from the blaze did create necessary conditions for that container to explode. The door blew off, and actually did contact a firefighter, causing a fatality.”
Strand adds, WorkSafe B.C would like employers to conduct risk assessment, ensure their employees understand the risk, and put signage up on those containers being used for storage to let workers and firefighters know what is inside.