These containers have been apparently improperly serviced in Vietnam. Containers have previously exploded in China and Brazil – killing three and injuring many more.

Reports originally suggested that eighty refrigerated containers had been put into isolation at the Port of Seattle for ‘safety reasons’ putting hundreds of truck drivers in limbo.

But, a spokesperson at the Port of Seattle has told PS: “We have eight possible suspect containers isolated by the shipping lines based on initial information that made them concerned”.

We've validated that four of them were serviced in Vietnam – hence, three containers in Tacoma and one container in Seattle have been placed on operational hold by the Coast Guard.

“Once a potential hazard has been identified, the Coast Guard will work with industry to develop safe procedures to mitigate the hazard and/or repair as necessary”.

Currently, the US coastguard is looking into similar container issues at the Ports of Tacoma, Washington, Portland, Oregon and Long Beach.

Last week the Port of Oakland in California had similar issues which coincided with a general strike march adding to the chaos. Longshoremen refused to move refrigerated containers because of the explosive risk.

A wider concern is that containers leaving Vietnam may have passed through many ports before security alerts were put in place. In which case how many containers serviced in Vietnam have ended up around the world?

Bron:http://www.portstrategy.com