A merican Club Circular No . 19 / 2 1 1 SEPTEMBER 13, 2021 CIRCULAR NO. 19/21 TO MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION Dear Member: SIERRA LEONE - CARRIAGE OF IRON ORE FINES - LIQUEFACTION RISKS Particular issues in Sierra Leone Members are referred to previous circulars over several years concerning the risks arising from the carriage of mineral ores from certain places, including the possible liquefaction of such cargoes and the lack of regulatory oversight at loading ports. Cargoes of iron ore fines are of increasing concern, particularly those originating in Sierra Leone, where there has been a phased restart of iron ore mining, and especially with the loading of cargo at the port of Pepel. The International Group (IG) understands that some cargoes of iron ore fines intended for shipment from the port of Pepel have been stockpiled outdoors – and uncovered – for a prolonged period. This practice poses a particular risk of liquefaction during the wet season. It is also understood that some cargoes intended for shipment from Pepel have previously been considered too low-grade for export and have been left in uncovered stockpiles for lengthy periods. They are now being blended with higher grade material for export. Members should be aware that iron ore fines shipped from Pepel with a high moisture content may liquefy. When the moisture content is above 14%, the risk of liquefaction is very high. Typically, iron ore fines from the region will exhibit moisture contents of between 13% and 16% during the wet season. In addition, it is normal for the upper surfaces of any stockpiled material to appear relatively dry during the dry season, but such material is in fact wet at increasing depths below the surface. It is important therefore that shippers carefully monitor, identify and separate such wet material from that which is safe to ship. Members should also be aware that anomalies and inconsistencies have been seen in declarations and test certificates provided by shippers in regard to iron ore fines loaded for shipment from Pepel. This suggests that some shippers are not adequately assessing or understanding the safety characteristics of the material intended for loading. Testing of such materials (by means of the can test) may also provide misleading results if not correctly interpreted. Members are reminded that the presence, or not, of surface water in the can should not be relied upon as a sole basis for acceptance of any such cargo for loading. A merican Club Circular No. 19 / 2 1 2 It is essential therefore that Members loading iron ore fine cargoes from Pepel, Sierra Leone obtain current, valid and accurate information from the shipper on the physical and chemical properties of the cargo presented for shipment. It is the shipper’s responsibility to ensure that the requirements and procedures for testing and analyzing the moisture content and transportable moisture limit of cargoes which may liquefy are complied with. Members are referred to previous circulars for the responsibilities of both shippers and masters. Early identification of any documentary discrepancies or concerns is key to providing a timely resolution of potential problems before loading. This will minimize delays. Members should also ensure that they receive the shipper’s declaration and test certificates well in advance of loading in order to address any issues in good time. Members should seek further guidance from the Managers if there are any concerns loading iron ore fin