UK P&I Club, Lloyd's Register and Intercargo have produced a pocket guide & checklist for ship's officer and agents who arrange cargoes for loading.
The P&I Club explains that when bulk cargoes shift, liquefy, catch fire or explode as a consequence of poor loading procedures, the consequences can be massive. Ships may capsize, lose stability or sustain severe structural damage.
Such happenings enhance the risks - and the occurrence - of death, injury, insurance claims, operational delay and considerable expense.
Carrying solid bulk cargoes safely: Guidance for crews on the International Solid Bulk Cargoes Code outlines the precautions to be taken before accepting solid bulk cargoes for shipment; sets out procedures for safe loading and carriage and details the primary hazards associated with different types of cargoes. A quick reference checklist and flowchart summarise the steps to be followed.
It comes in a laminated flip over format for on-the-spot use and for enhancing awareness among operators, shippers and charters, and can be downloaded here.