When bulk cargo (or any cargo) is not properly secured, then there is a chance that the adverse sea-state and high winds can have a negative effect on the security and position of the cargo, meaning that the cargo or ships structure can become damaged. Ultimately, a lack of proper securing methods & techniques puts life, the ship, and the environment in danger. To avoid getting into situations like these the responsible personnel on board should be competent enough to plan and uphold safe carriage of the cargo at all times....
When bulk cargo (or any cargo) is not properly secured, then there is a chance that the adverse sea-state and high winds can have a negative effect on the security and position of the cargo, meaning that the cargo or ships structure can become damaged. Ultimately, a lack of proper securing methods & techniques puts life, the ship, and the environment in danger.
To avoid getting into situations like these the responsible personnel on board should be competent enough to plan and uphold safe carriage of the cargo at all times. This is done by proper planning of cargo lashing and securing.
Basic Reasons of Loss or Damage to the Cargo
- Poor weather conditions and inadequate knowledge of the consequences of these conditions on the cargo
- Lack of proper knowledge and training of the correct procedures for securing
- Due to limited turn-around duration, there is insufficient time and workforce to carry out the required securing tasks before departure.
Points to remember while securing cargo
When securing the cargo within the hold, the strongest allocated lashing points should be used on the ship’s structure, ensuring the lashings are as taut as possible, thus reducing the probability of any movement during the passage. On this note, these lashings must be able to be maintained and tensioned en route, if adverse weather is encountered.
If poor weather is encountered, the lashings must also have the strength to stop the loads from shifting as the ship rolls through 30 degrees. Again, to avoid this, the method of securing should be correctly positioned and re-checked continuously. Furthermore, any broken stowage areas should be filled with rubber tires, dunnage/pallets or bagged grain (if the cargo is loose grain).
