Bulk carriers and general cargo vessels are receiving frequent requests to load flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs), also known as “jumbo bags”, in the same holds as breakbulk and steel cargoes, or to store different bagged chemicals in the same hold. The Nautical Institute warns of the dangers of this practice in a new Mars Report.
The Nautical Institute gathers reports of maritime accidents and near-misses. It then publishes these so-called Mars (Mariners’ Alerting and Reporting Scheme) Reports (anonymously) to prevent other accidents from happening. This is one of these reports.
Stowing different bagged chemicals can result in chemical contamination and reactions, leading to on-board vessel fires, and the potential total loss of the entire contents of the hold.
Serious problems can also occur when FIBCs are stored incorrectly with breakbulk or steel cargoes, which can damage the integrity of the jumbo bags and cause significant spillage. Steel cargo can also be damaged by exposure to spillage from the jumbo bag.
Failure to strictly comply with all relevant International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations and guidance governing the storage and handling of jumbo bags, including SOLAS, the Cargo Securing Manual (CSM), the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS) and the IMDG Code, could prejudice P&I cover.
Also read: Chemical hazards on ships need PPE
Advice from The Nautical Institute
- When developing stowage plans for FIBCs and other big bags, consider requesting advice from P&I’s so that qualified industry experts can be consulted before loading.
- These cargoes may look harmless, but they can be potentially very dangerous if not stowed and handled appropriately.
- The London P&I Club made an interesting video on this topic that can be viewed here:
Mars Reports
This accident was covered in the Mars Reports, originally published as Mars 202603. A selection of the Mars Reports are also published in the SWZ|Maritime magazine. The Nautical Institute compiles these reports to help prevent maritime accidents. That is why they are also published (in full) on SWZ|Maritime’s website.
More reports are needed to keep the scheme interesting and informative. All reports are read only by the Mars coordinator and are treated in the strictest confidence. To submit a report, please use the Mars report form.
Also read: Scrap metal causes fire while being loaded on board ship
