ITCO Technical Guidelines – Raising Global Standards for Tank Container Safety and Sustainability
The challenge
When tank containers were first introduced, they brought a new set of safety and operational challenges. These included working at height, confined space entry, handling hazardous cargoes, and managing waste from cleaning processes. As a novel transport solution, there were no established standards - leaving manufacturers, operators, and regulators without clear guidance on how to manage these risks safely and sustainably.
The innovation
To address these challenges, the International Tank Container Organisation (ITCO) launched a long-term initiative to develop a comprehensive set of Technical Guidelines. These cover:
- Safety procedures and best practices
- Intermediate inspection and testing
- Tank sustainability, repurposing, and recycling
- Seals and gaskets performance
- Depot audit and assessment standards (in development)
ITCO also introduced a self-paced E-learning Tank Container Course, offering professionals in the industry up-to-date training on safe handling, maintenance, and regulatory compliance for both hazardous and non-hazardous cargoes.
How it works
ITCO’s guidelines and training programs were developed through collaborative Work Groups made up of industry members and supported by experienced technical consultants. Despite limited resources, ITCO leveraged the expertise of retired professionals and active stakeholders to ensure the guidelines were practical, relevant, and widely applicable.
The E-learning course is regularly updated to reflect evolving technologies and regulations, ensuring that industry professionals stay informed and compliant.
Case study
Today, ITCO has over 180 global members and its Technical Guidelines are widely recognised as the industry standard. Members proudly display the ITCO logo as a mark of adherence to these high standards. The effectiveness of tank container safety is exemplified by real-world events - such as the 2015 Tianjin disaster, where three ITCO-standard tanks withstood extreme heat and structural damage without leaking their contents.
Potential impact
ITCO’s work has significantly improved safety, sustainability, and operational performance across the tank container industry. The guidelines and training:
- Reduce workplace risks and improve employee safety
- Support environmental compliance and responsible waste management
- Extend the lifecycle of tank containers through repurposing and recycling
- Promote global consistency in safety and inspection standards
- Date
- 22/07/2025
