RA 12 – February 2010 - One of a series of Steamship Mutual Loss Prevention Bulletins produced by the Ship Safety Trust Page 1 of 2 For further information please contact the Loss Prevention Department, Steamship Insurance Management Services Ltd., Tel: +44 20 7247 5490; Email: loss.prevention@simsl.com Web: www.simsl.com/loss-prevention-and-safety-training.html General Cargo on Cellular Container Vessels General Cargo on Cellular Container VesselsGeneral Cargo on Cellular Container Vessels General Cargo on Cellular Container Vessels Introduction IntroductionIntroduction Introduction It has recently become evident that cellular container vessels are increasingly being fixed for the carriage of general and project cargoes. For the reasons outlined in this Risk Alert, the carriage of general or project type cargo on vessels that are not specifically designed for this purpose represents a significant increase in risk, and any decision to accept such cargoes needs careful consideration. However, if cellular container vessels are to be used for this purpose a number of areas require attention in order to minimise the risk of P&I claims arising. The areas of concern that need to considered and addressed are detailed below for Members’ guidance. Cargo Securing Manual Cargo Securing ManualCargo Securing Manual Cargo Securing Manual It has to be ensured that the vessel’s Cargo Securing Manual covers all aspects of the carriage of general and / or project cargoes that may be applicable to the anticipated fixture. If not the cargo securing manual will need to be amended and approved by Class or the entity that approves the Cargo Securing Manual on behalf of the Flag State. Hatchcover Weathertightness Hatchcover WeathertightnessHatchcover Weathertightness Hatchcover Weathertightness One of the principal causes of cargo damage claims experienced by the Club is water ingress into cargo holds caused by non-weathertight hatchcovers. It is generally accepted that the hatchcovers on container vessels are not expected to be as weathertight as would be the case for a general cargo vessel due to the lower risk of damage to containerised cargo from water entering the holds in heavy weather. For container vessels it is also found that the rubber packing retaining channels on their pontoon hatch covers are susceptible to damage during opening and closing. The rubber packing is also especially susceptible to damage when pontoons are in contact with fittings and lashing material when placed on deck during cargo operations. Therefore when a container vessel is used for the carriage of a general cargo which may be susceptible to water damage, it has to be confirmed that the hatches are weathertight. All rubber packing must be in place, be in a good condition and form a continuous seal. Hatch coaming drain channels must be kept clear of debris and the coaming drains must be clear. RA 12 – February 2010 - One of a series of Steamship Mutual Loss Prevention Bulletins produced by the Ship Safety Trust Page 2 of 2 For further information please contact the Loss Prevention Department, Steamship Insurance Management Services Ltd., Tel: +44 20 7247 5490; Email: loss.prevention@simsl.com Web: www.simsl.com/loss-prevention-and-safety-training.html Hatch securing devices must be in place, serviceable, properly adjusted and must all be correctly applied prior to departure. When hatches are found not to be weathertight, then additional precautionary measures such as foam seala