Incident Overview
An aircraft operator reported that a member of a freight company misread the digits on a container, confusing 1483 for 4183, and transported it to an incorrect bay while delivering the correct DWS (Dangerous Goods Declaration and Weight Statement) and container card.
Actions of the Leading Hand
The leading hand incorrectly assumed that freight container 1483 was the correct container to be loaded, but believed that the container number on the container card and DWS (4183) had been entered incorrectly due to a transcription error. Although the leading hand could have requested a new printed DWS and container card, the combination of limited turnaround time and a concern to ensure the freight made it to its destination that night led the leading hand to instead “correct” the numbers with a pen so they matched the number on the container. This action eliminated an opportunity for the incorrect assumption to be identified.
Captain's Acceptance
The captain observed the discrepancy between the container number and the documents but accepted the hand-written amendment to the DWS based on the leading hand’s assurance that the correct container had been loaded onto the aircraft.
Outcome
The incident resulted in an incorrect container being loaded onto the aircraft. No further details regarding consequences or subsequent actions were provided.