IMCA provides lessons learned in a recent safety flash, regarding a shift of cargo during heavy weather.
The incident
Cargo broke loose in heavy seas on a vessel in transit. Moderate to heavy rolling caused strapping holding stacks of cargo (metal beams) to break, causing the stacks to collapse. Seven stacks collapsed or shifted, and a further three stacks moved to a lesser degree.
There was no structural damage to the vessel or to other cargo. The vessel altered course and the collapsed / shifted stacks were re-secured with extra chain lashings.
Probable cause
Immediate cause:
- The beam stacks (each over 9000kg and length: 4.5 m x width: 1.7 m x height: 1.9 m) were not loaded or lashed as per the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS code) for such cargo;
Causal factors:
- Inadequate communication – there was ineffective communication between vessel and charterers;
- Inadequate supervision – there was misjudgement of vessel movement and external force (wind, wave, and swells);
- Lack of experience in loading / lashing such type of cargo at the Port of Loading.
Actions taken
- Further training on proper/effective lashing and securing of cargo;
- Discussion end education on need for vigilance and close supervision when loading;
- Additional lashings to be in place in certain weather conditions.
