India: Safe loading of iron ore fines and Group A cargoes
Members will be aware of recent reports relating to the loss of the Panamax bulk carrier, OCEAN WINNER, in the Bay of Bengal. Current information at the time of writing is that of the 24 crew members on board, 2 have been rescued while search and rescue operations continue.
The vessel was loaded with a cargo of bulk iron ore fines shipped at the port of Paradip. The cause of the sinking is presently unknown, but it can be expected that the investigation into the casualty will include the possibility of the vessel experiencing a loss of stability due to liquefaction of the cargo. Iron ore fines are categorised as a Group A cargo under the IMSBC Code, defined as cargoes which possess a hazard due to moisture that may result in liquefaction or dynamic separation if shipped at a moisture content in excess of their transportable moisture limit (TML).
The Club local correspondents have advised that the Indian Maritime Authorities are in the process of revising local procedures and guidelines for the loading of Group A cargoes. The latest bulletin from correspondents James Mackintosh & Co detailing the present status of these revised procedures, as issued by MMD Kolkata, may be found here
The Club are maintaining close contact with correspondents and will update Members as further information becomes available.
Members with vessels fixed to load iron ore fines or other Group A cargoes at ports in India are advised to contact the Club for up to date guidance, as well recommendations for the appointment of competent surveyors to attend loading operations.