The shipping of hazardous and potentially dangerous goods requires specially trained operatives, secure containers and various precautions that make such a movement legally compliant.
How to enter the profession
People who work with hazardous goods on liners and cargo ships usually come from standard shipping backgrounds. However, they have received special training in order to be compliant with the International Maritime Organisation(IMO) regulations as well as the regulations set out by both the Health and Safety Executive and various Acts of Parliament, so should be attuned to safety procedures. Recruitment agencies are looking for responsible candidates with a traceable and reputable work history. As the nature of these goods can be highly volatile, some companies will insist that all staff undergo criminal record checks.
Main employers and desired skills
Most of the UK’s major shipping companies have employment opportunities in this area, including DHL, FedEx and UPS. Applicants will usually need to be physically fit, due to the potential for intensive physical labour and some employers will insist on a full physical check before an offer of employment is made. Shipping is a 24-hour operation, so candidates should be prepared to work unsociable hours for periods of over 7 days.
Salaries in this sector will vary depending on seniority rankings. Manual workers will often be paid by the hour, and they will often have the opportunity to earn hourly bonuses for working through the night or during unsociable hours.