Pre-Loading Survey of Ore Minerals
NICKEL / IRON ORE
There have been cases of ships sank due to liquefaction of Nickel Ore cargoes resulting in listing and sinking of ships. Our attention is drawn to the importance of adhering to the provisions in the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC Code) for the safety precautions on loading Nickel Ore cargoes which are prone to liquefaction if not handle properly.
SSI Surveyors has built an excellent track record in pre-loading of dangerous solid bulk cargoes since 2006. In each attendance they are guided by the following specification;
- To review and follow the instructions as stated in the appointment letter issued by the principals.
- Prior to loading, check the cargo Certificates issued by the Shipper to the Master if the contents or data are in accordance with the IMSBC Code.
- To assist the Master during loading operations, and jointly with an officer on duty to draw samples on the cargo for each and every barge loaded secured alongside the vessel, and the said sample be subjected to can test and if found with sign of high moisture content, the batch of cargo must be rejected for loading. This is to be done during the entire course of loading operations.
- To draw samples for analysis in the event it is required by the Principals prior to loading or vessels arrival, subject however to the approval of the shipper and charterers in taking samples at former stockpiles ashore.
- To ensure that during loading operations in the event rain occurred that all hatches of the vessel are closed to prevent the cargo from wetting, also verify if the remaining cargo on board barges secured alongside are covered with tarpaulins.
- To clause the Mate’s Receipt if necessary.
- To issue daily reports to the principals complete with photos of the cargo and vessel’s cargo holds.
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To check the cargo trimming carried out by the stevedores after loading if it is to the Master’s satisfaction.
SSI will issue Can Test & Inspection Report, to be signed and stamped by the vessel’s Master.
COAL
In Maritime Industry this cargo is classified as material hazardous in bulk (MHB) it is place in Group B (and A) Group B cargoes possess a chemical hazard that may create flammable atmospheres, may heat spontaneously and may deplete the oxygen concentration that will corrode metal structures. When the cargo oxidizes (generating heat) it releases the toxic gas carbon monoxide. Group A cargoes are defined as those which may liquefy if shipped at moisture contents in excess of their transportable moisture limit (TML).
We carry out pre loading survey and monitoring of loading with this type of cargo in accordance with the safe carriage of coal appended in existing rules and guidelines of IMSBC code. The following are important duties which SSI surveyors carry out during this type of survey.
- Checking the stockpiles temperature and drawing samples as required by the Principals prior to loading or vessel arrival, subject however to the approval of the shipper and charterers.
- Monitoring the temperature of the cargo using infrared thermometer regularly.
- Rejecting cargoes when temperature exceeds in 55 ËšC
- Do not stow cargo adjacent to hot areas.
SSI will issue Inspection & Temperature Monitoring Report, to be signed and stamped by the vessel’s Master.