Reefer Course - IMCS Training Academy

Antwerp, 26 November 2024

Training objective The objective of this training is to equip claims handlers, authorities, inspectors, surveyors, operations personnel (both onboard and ashore) with a comprehensive understanding of the technical and legal aspects of refrigerated (reefer) shipments. The training will provide in-depth knowledge on the operation and maintenance of reefer containers, including the principles of temperature control, ventilation, and humidity management.

Participants will also gain insights into the critical points of transfer of responsibility throughout all phases of the shipment process—from loading and transit to delivery and inspection.

Although the primary focus is on the technical operation of reefer containers, the training will also touch upon the relevant legislative framework and international standards, providing participants with a foundational understanding of the regulatory environment that affects reefer shipments.

By the end of the training, attendees will be able to:

1. Understand the transfer of responsibility: at each stage of the shipment process, understanding the implications for liability and claims handling.

2. Understand the basic principles and components of refrigerated containers, focusing on their purpose to maintain the pre-cooled temperature of perishable cargo and ensure proper operation during transportation.

3. Explain the energy-saving modes, their operational characteristics (such as temperature fluctuations, quieter operations, and extended defrost cycles), and how to distinguish normal energy saving mode behaviour from actual malfunctions.

4. Understand best practices for preparing, loading, and arranging cargo in refrigerated containers to maintain optimal airflow and temperature control, ensuring the safety and quality of the transported goods.

5. Recognize signs of potential refrigeration system issues, such as alarm conditions, airflow obstructions, and heat retention.

6. Comprehend and distinguish between types of special shipments such as Controlled atmosphere and Cold treatment.

7. Attendees will learn how to read data loggers and correctly interpret them.

This training will empower participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to ensure the safe, compliant, and efficient handling of refrigerated shipments, thereby minimizing risks and maximizing the quality and integrity of the cargo.
Prerequisites Familiar with the English language, both spoken and written
Duration 1 day
Trainers Mihai Buzatu & Howard Van Doninck
Course format PowerPoint and workshops. Detailed training material.
Course language English
Maximum number of delegates 18
Target group/delegate profile Inspectors, surveyors, claims handlers, logistics agents, superintendents, terminal staff and governmental workers.
Venue IMCS Training Academy BV
Noorderlaan 79
2030 Antwerp (Belgium)
Cost Public training : 800 EUR/person (excl. VAT)

Unless otherwise mentioned on the (pro-forma) invoice, the full amount of the (pro-forma) invoice is payable prior to the course’s start date.

In-house training : organised at lump-sum cost in function of number of candidates and location of the training. For details please contact us on training@imcs.be.
Registration Please fill out the registration form or send an email with the participant’s name, company details, email address and mobile phone number to training@imcs.be Registrations are made on a first entered (and paid), first booked basis.

Day 1

08:30 - 08:45 Registration, morning coffee
08:45 - 09:00 Introductions
09:00 - 10:00 Refrigerated shipments general considerations
10:00 - 10:15 Coffee break
10:15 - 10:45 Workshop related to shift of responsibility in refrigerated shipments (quiz)
10:45 - 11:15 Thermodynamic principles
11:15 - 12:15 Basic components of a refrigeration cycle
12:15 - 13:15 Lunch
13:15 - 13:45 Basic components and function of a reefer container box
13:45 - 14:15 Air circulation within reefer containers (cargo stowage patterns and issues encountered such as ice accumulation)
14:15 - 14:30 Reefer displays
14:30 - 14:45 Usage and limitations of reefers
14:45 - 15:00 Coffee break
15:15 - 16:30 Datalog downloads and case studies
16:30 - 17:00 Recap and key points