Cargo

Question 1

What groups of the IMSBC code may Coal fall under?

Answer 1

A - liquefaction potential
B - chemical hazards

Question 2

What information is required to be provided by shippers?

Answer 2

Bulk Cargo Shipping Name
Cargo Group
IMO Class
UN Number
Quantity of Cargo
Stowage Factor
Trimming Procedures
Likelihood of shifting and angle of repose
Moisture Content and TML
Likelihood of wet base
Potential genesis of toxic and/or flammable gas
Self-heating properties
Radioactivity
Harm to marine environment
Properties when wet
Flammability
Toxicity
Corrosiveness
Oxygen Depletion

Question 3

TML and CAMC - validity?

Answer 3

Transportable Moisture Limit - 6 months
Certificate of Actual Moisture Content - 7 days

Question 4

What documentation does the vessel require to carry Coal?

Answer 4

Certificate of Transportable Moisture Limit
Certificate of Actual Moisture Content
Dangerous Goods DoC

Question 5

Hazards of Coal?

Answer 5

FLASC

Flammable Atmosphere - emits methane
Liquefaction - may reach flow state (7mm particles)
Asphyxiation - depletes o2 or generates CO
Self-heating
Corrosion

Question 6

What is the Upgraded Proctor-Fagerberg Test?

Answer 6

A laboratory test to determine drainage properties and likelihood of cargo liquefaction

Sample saturated to 70% of TML; if water drains freely then it is unlikely to liquefy

Question 7

What is the Can Test?

Answer 7

A test to verify accuracy of Actual Moisture Content

Question 8

How to conduct can test?

Answer 8

Take a sample in a rigid, straight-sided can. Slam/drop the can from roughly knee-height onto the deck. Repeat some 25 times.
Assess the sample for any liquid or glossiness.

If any adverse signs of fluidity, refuse carriage until further laboratory testing.

Question 9

How to prepare for coal cargo?

Answer 9

Check hold: clean, dry and bilges matted
Hatch Covers tested, closed and watertight
Check the Cargo Declaration against the DG Document of Compliance - can the vessel carry it?
Check TML and AMC Certificates - are they within date?
Complete Ship/Shore safety checklist per BLU Code

Question 10

Checks made during loading of coal?

Answer 10

1. Arrange manning to ensure continuous visual inspection
2. Check for splatter or water pooling; excessive moisture content
3. Systematic and regular can tests
4. Suspend loading and close hatches as needed during periods of rain
5. Request testing if there is any doubt as to moisture content

Question 11

During loading, it becomes evident that coal cargo has exceeded the TML.

Actions?

Answer 11

Stop loading.
(Inform Master)
Lodge letter of Protest
Inform Owners, DPA
Advise P&I, request a cargo superintendent

Question 12

Considerations for a loading plan?

Answer 12

Rates
Pours
Locations of pours
Sequential ballast
Emergency Stop Procedures
Draughts and UKC
SF and BM calculated throughout
Emergency plan and Response

Question 13

What document do you require to be able to carry grain?

Answer 13

Document of Authorisation
issued by Flag State

Question 14

When can a ship load grain without a document of authorization?

Answer 14

The master demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Administration, or of the Contracting Government of the port of loading acting on behalf of the Administration, that, in its loaded condition for the intended voyage, the ship complies with the requirements of the code.

Weight < 1/3rd DWT

All filled compartments, trimmed, shall be fitted with centreline divisions for the full length, extending downwards from the underside of the deck or hatch covers to a distance below the deck line of at least one eighth of the maximum breadth of the compartment or 2.4 m, whichever is the greater

Saucers may be accepted in lieu of a centreline division in and beneath a hatchway except in the case of linseed and other seeds having similar properties;

All hatches to filled compartments, trimmed, shall be closed and covers secured in place

All free grain surfaces in partly filled cargo space shall be trimmed level and secured

GMf min 0.3m throughout voyage