Members must contact the Club in case of any intention to load nickel ore in the Philippines.

Members will be aware of previously reported incidents of cargo liquefaction associated with the safe carriage of nickel ore (a group A cargo as categorised in the IMSBC code), particularly from ports in Indonesia and the Philippines. In some cases, these incidents have resulted in the tragic loss of vessels and crew. Although such incidents have become less frequent as a consequence of the ban on exports of nickel ore from Indonesia and reduced export volumes from the Philippines, there is no room for complacency when assessing the potential liquefaction risks of nickel ore cargoes.

It is essential that Members ensure they are fully appraised of local conditions at the places of loading, the particular characteristics of the nickel ore cargoes being exported from the Philippines and the various challenges Owners and Charterers will be faced with in ensuring only safe and suitable cargo is loaded in full compliance with the IMSBC code.

The loading and carriage of nickel ore in the Philippines gives rise to several concerns. Mines are often in remote locations with limited or no port facilities, and cargo is typically stockpiled uncovered on the beach, fully exposed to the weather. Nickel ore has traditionally been shipped in the dry season (February-May/June). In recent years, however, heavy rainfall has also been observed during this period.

Mines are not easily accessible due to their remoteness, making it difficult for independent surveyors/experts acting for the vessel to obtain cargo samples. Mines generally have their own laboratories. However, it is often unclear whether the correct testing equipment is available and in satisfactory condition, or whether testing procedures comply with the IMSBC code. Accordingly the reliability of the information and documentation which the shipper is required to provide under the Code is questionable.

Vessels are invariably loaded whilst at anchor from barges or landing craft, which have themselves been loaded from stockpiles situated on the beach. The stock-piled cargo may well have been subject to rainfall after samples have been taken and tested, during transportation from the mine to the beach and while stockpiled on the beach. The Code requires that the interval between testing for the moisture content and loading shall never be more than seven days but in many instances this period is not observed.

Loading should not commence until the master is in possession of all requisite cargo information and documentation/certificates that the shipper is obliged to provide and is satisfied that the cargo is safe to load and carry.

If the master has any doubt regarding the suitability and safety of the cargo, loading must be stopped and the Member should contact the Club immediately.

For further guidance, please find linked below:

Loading Nickel Ore in the Philippines: Understand the Risks, issued by Pandiman.

Guide for the Safe Loading of Nickel Ore, issued by INTERCARGO.

Cargo Advice – Liquefaction