Further disruptions are expected on the docks after the Corporation of Hamilton placed a limit on the number of containers.

The move could increase import prices with Bermuda Container Line set to bring in a congestion surcharge.

Mayor Lawson Mapp said the 750 container limit had been sparked by safety fears with men working in cramped conditions trying to clear the backlog. Currently it has 830 containers.

He said: ?We are very lucky the docks have not come to a standstill from the BIU who have to work down there. We have taken the initiative we didn?t want a major accident.?

A statement by Bermuda Container Line warned that from August 18 if containers exceed 750 while a ship is being discharged then further unloading will stop.

The statement said: ?Over the last few weeks there have been many times when the numbers of containers has exceeded 750.

?Therefore we do anticipate significant disruptions to our operations and delays in our schedule.

?The shipping lines are exploring various options, as an emergency measure only, to reduce the number of containers on the Hamilton Docks to allow smooth working of the ships.

?Unfortunately these measures will have considerable cost impacts and once these costs are known we will have to institute a Port of Hamilton surcharge.

?In the long run the only way to improve the situation is to substantially increase the square footage available on the docks for the handling of Bermuda?s imports.?

Dockers have agreed to work flexi-time and will now start one hour earlier at 7 a.m. allowing importers more time to collect goods.

Recent surveys showed cargo volume growth rate is running at 60 percent above the average this year compared to the past six years.

Mayor Mapp said he hoped to create space by removing number eight shed where containers are stripped by December, although he stressed it will need to be cleared by Customs. Number Seven shed would be removed next year.

Asked where the LCL (less than container load) sheds would go to he said: ?That?s not our responsibility to provide a venue for LCL cargo but we have been doing it.?

He hoped space could be found around Mill?s Creek but he conceded land is expensive.

Stevedoring Services back the plan to move out LCL work because it would free up 75 percent more space.

Small scale importers have complained about being charged for leaving stuff on the docks when it is not their fault because the containers have not been stripped.

Earlier this week Tourism and Transport Minister Ewart Brown said he was pushing for the docks to be moved out of Front Street completely to an undisclosed central north shore location. The move would ease traffic congestion and create more space for tourist activities.