What are the new regulations?
The Freight Containers (Safety Convention) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025 replace the 1992 regulations and align Northern Ireland’s standards with the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) 1972 and its most recent amendments.
They apply to most freight containers used at work or supplied for use at work — including offshore — and across a wide range of industrial applications.
Definition of a container
The regulations apply to any robust, reusable transport unit designed for intermodal transport, excluding vehicles and air-only transport units. Containers must meet defined structural standards and size requirements.
Approval and marking requirements
Containers must be formally approved, either by design type or as individual units. Approvals may be issued by:
- HSENI (the Executive)
- Appointed organisations
- Competent authorities in CSC-ratifying countries
Each container must carry a non-corroding, durable safety approval plate with key data:
- Approval reference
- Date of manufacture
- Container ID number
- Maximum gross mass
- Stacking and racking limits
- Examination programme details
Maintenance and examination duties
All containers must be:
- Maintained in good condition and efficient working order
- Examined under an approved scheme or a continuous examination programme (ACEP)
If responsibility is transferred via lease or contract, the new party must ensure compliance. Examination details must be marked clearly on or near the safety plate.
Transitional arrangements
Containers built before 1 July 2014 may continue to use their original approval plates — unless they’ve been structurally modified.
Why this update matters
The new regulations improve safety, support international trade, and provide legal clarity for owners, lessees and users of freight containers. They bring Northern Ireland in line with international container safety standards.
In Great Britain, the Freight Containers (Safety Convention) Regulations 2017 still apply.
Need help with compliance or container inspections?
We support logistics, engineering and offshore businesses with container safety audits, compliance reviews and training. Contact us for expert support.