The Britannia P&I Club has issued an article providing advice for the safe carriage and care of the rice cargo.The major issue with cargoes of bagged rice is the formation of mould or caking which can often be attributed to condensation due to inadequate ventilation or water ingress. Other issues include shortages due to pilferage and damage to bags which are torn, slack or lost overboard during stevedore operations. Finally, infestation and fumigation problems are also common in this trade.
The carriage of bagged rice cargo is a potentially hazardous undertaking, with claims running to millions of dollars when problems arise – particularly in the trade between South East Asia and West Africa. Club’s loss prevention department has worked with CWA Food and Dry Commodities Group to identify the problems encountered in this trade and to share with operators best practices that can eradicate or substantially reduce a Member’s exposure to costly disputes and claims.
The Club refers to good practice guidelines during the following stage of carriage
- Pre-Loading : hold cleanliness, hatch covers, dunnage
- Loading: infestation and fumigation
- During the voyage: ventilation requirements, condensation
- Discharge
Dew Point Rule
- VENTILATE if the dewpoint of the air inside the hold is higher than the dewpoint of the air outside the hold.
- DO NOT VENTILATE if the dewpoint of the air inside the hold is lower than the dewpoint of the air outside the hold
Three Degree Rule
- VENTILATE if the dry bulb temperature of the outside air is at least 3°C cooler than the average cargo temperature at the time of loading.
- DO NOT VENTILATE if the dry bulb temperature of the outside air is less than 3°C cooler than the average cargo temperature at the time of loading, or warmer.
The Club concludes that by following the key measures outlined in the article relating to the safe carriage and care of the rice cargo, it should be possible for shipowners to minimise and eradicate most claims. Club’s loss prevention department is always available to support operators and respond to their questions. The master and the ship staff should remain watchful and alert throughout the venture. If an opeator experiences any problems pre-loading, during the voyage or at a discharge port then they should contact the Club and the local Club correspondent.
You may read the article at the following publication of the Brittania P&I Club
