The Australian Maritime Safety Authority issued a marine notice, reminding vessel owners, operators and masters of the importance of stowing cargo in accordance with approved arrangements.
All cargo, whether carried on or under deck, should be stowed and secured in accordance with the vessel’s Cargo Securing Manual as approved under Regulation 5.6 of Chapter VI of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. This includes the way in which cargo is secured and the weight distribution of cargo within the stow.
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In Australia, Chapter VI of the SOLAS Convention is given effect through Marine Order 42 (Carriage, stowage and securing of cargoes and containers) 2016.
AMSA has experienced incidents in recent years in which the stowage of cargos did not comply with the approved arrangements, as:
- Loaded containers were carried in slots only intended for empty units;
- The weight of some loaded containers exceeded the maximum weight for containers permitted to be stowed in that slot;
- Fixed and portable securing equipment were not maintained appropriately.
Such practices may put the effectiveness of cargo stowage and securing arrangements in risk, increasing the danger of cargo being lost overboard while at sea. The possibility of this is increased by weather conditions and navigational practices. The impact of such events on safety and the environment is often significant.
Australia expects cargo to be carried in full compliance with the vessel’s Cargo Securing Manual and in accordance with the requirements of the SOLAS Convention.
Masters and owners should know that additional focus will be given to stowage and securing arrangements during upcoming Port State Control (PSC) inspections in Australia.
If, during a PSC inspection, evidence shows that:
- The weight distribution and stack weights are not in compliance with the approved cargo stowage arrangements;
- The securing arrangements are not in accordance with the approved Cargo Securing Manual;
- The Cargo Securing Manual does not adequately cover the cargo being carried.
AMSA will take the necessary steps to bring the ship into compliance.
