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12.1.1     When applicable the consignee or the receiver of a CTU should check whether the unit is externally in good condition, and not significantly distorted, cracked or bent. If such damage is found, the receiver should document and notify it to the CTU operator. Specific attention should be paid to damage that may have influenced the condition of the cargo within the unit.

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12.1.4     Persons opening a CTU should be aware of the risk of cargo falling out (for details see annex 5, section 6).

12.1.5     CTUs with substances used for cooling or conditioning purposes present a particular risk of a toxic or asphyxiant atmosphere (see paragraphs 11.2.2 and 11.2.3). Before opening the doors, it should be ascertained by measurement that no harmful atmosphere is present in the CTU.

12.1.6     Some cargoes may emit harmful fumes. Especially after long sea voyages, it has been repeatedly realized that apparently non-hazardous goods such as shoes, textile products, furniture or the like emit harmful substances to an extent making the atmosphere in the CTU dangerous. Care should be taken not to come into contact with the internal atmosphere when opening the doors. Therefore, any CTU should be ventilated before allowing personnel to enter, preferably by mechanically forced ventilation. If this is not available, the doors should be opened for a period of time – - enough to allow the internal atmosphere to regularize with the ambient.

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12.1.8     If there is a particular reason to suspect damage to packages packages with dangerous goods, expert advice should be sought before unpacking of the unit starts. When possible, a safety data sheet (SDS) should be required from the consignor, to determine appropriate measures and necessary personal protection equipment