Cargo Flashcards
(131 cards)
1
Q
Define a Bulk Carrier?
A
A Bulk carrier is specifically designed to transport solid bulk (i.e. unpackaged) cargoes.
2
Q
Define a General Cargo vessel?
A
A General cargo vessels often handle a wide range of cargo.
(Largely been superseded by container ships)
3
Q
Define a tanker?
A
Vessels specifically designed to store and transport liquid cargoes.
4
Q
Define a offshore vessels?
A
Specialised vessels that support offshore (oil, gas, renewable) operations.
5
Q
Define RO-RO vessel?
A
Specially designed vessels used for transporting vehicles, freight lorries/trailers or other wheeled cargoes.
6
Q
Define Heavy Lift?
A
Vessels designed to transport large loads that would be impossible for other vessels to carry/lift onboard.
7
Q
What are the three main design features that distinguish a bulk carrier from other vessel types?
A
- Large box-shaped cargo holds.
- High-capacity ballast tanks.
- Single deck with large hatch openings.
8
Q
How has containerisation changed to traditional general cargo vessels?
A
- Reduced loading/unloading time for days to hours.
- Introduced standardised 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
- Enabled more efficient space usage.
- Facilitated seamless transition to road transport.
9
Q
What are the structural features of modern oil tankers?
A
- Double hull construction.
- Cargo oil tanks in independent compartments.
- Segregated Ballast Tanks (SBTs).
- A network of pipelines on deck.
10
Q
How do chemical tankers differ from oil tankers in terms of design?
A
- Higher degree of subdivision.
- Minimal tank stiffeners for easier cleaning.
- Multiple independent piping systems.
- Specialized coating or stainless steel construction.
11
Q
What are the key safety risks associated with bulk carriers?
A
- Vessel stability concerns.
- Stresses during loading/unloading.
- Potential for cargo shift.
- Risk of cargo liquefaction.
12
Q
What are the essential design features of RO-RO vessels?
A
- Large open deck areas.
- Built-in ramps at stern, bow or sides.
- Multiple internally-connected decks.
- Adjustable decks for different cargo heights.
13
Q
What is Gross Tonnage (GT) and how is it used.
A
Gross Tonnage is a dimensionless measurement of a vessel’s total internal volume. it is used for:
- Determining manning requirements.
- Applying regulations.
- Calculating registration fees.
- Determining port and harbour charges.
14
Q
How is Net Tonnage Defined?
A
Net Tonnage is a measurement of the volume of revenue-generating spaces on a vessel only, such as cargo holds, passenger cabins and other spaces that generate income.
15
Q
What is Stowage Factor and how is it expressed?
A
Stowage Factor measures cargo density by indicating how many cubic meters of space one metric tonne of cargo will occupy in the hold, expressed in cubic meters per tonne (m3/t).
16
Q
What is ‘Broken Stow’ and how does it affect cargo loading?
A
Broken Stow refers to air gaps (i.e. Wasted space) present in loaded cargo. For example, a cargo of large rocks will fill the cargo hold less efficiently than grain.
17
Q
How is Deadweight Tonnage calculated?
A
Deadweight tonnage is the total weight a vessel can carry at its summer load line, minus:
- Fuel.
- Fresh water.
- Lubricating oils.
- Provisions.
- Crew and personal effects.
18
Q
What are the key responsibilities of a shipper?
A
- Providing cargo information to the Master.
- Arranging cargo testing and certification.
- Declaring cargo characteristics.
19
Q
When does ship sweat occur?
A
When cargo is loaded in a warm, moist atmosphere is subsequently cooled below its dew point by the vessel’s steelwork when the vessel sail into a cooler area.
20
Q
What is cargo sweat and when does it occur?
A
When the cargo from a cold, dry environment is exposed to warm, moist air through ventilation in warmer locations, causing condensation to from directly on the cargo.
21
Q
How do ship and cargo sweat damage cargo?
A
The condensation which forms on the steelwork of the hold (ship sweat) or on cargo (cargo sweat) can run or drip onto cargo, causing damage. This may include causing organic matter or causing steel cargo to rust.
22
Q
What instruments are used to monitor conditions that may lead to sweat?
A
- Wet bulb thermometer.
- Dry bulb thermometer.
- Infrared thermometer.
23
Q
How can ship sweat be prevented?
A
Ventilating the warm, humid air from the hold and replacing it with cool, dry air from the colder environment during the voyage.
24
Q
When should ventilation be avoided to prevent cargo sweat?
A
Ventilation should be avoided when moving from a cold to a warm climate with cold cargo, as introducing warm, moist air will cause condensation on the cold cargo.
25
What measurements are needed to access sweat risk?
- Dew point of the atmosphere in the cargo hold.
- Surface temperature of the cargo.
- Surface temperature of the hold walls.
26
What protective measures can be used to minimise cargo damage from ship sweat?
- Suing proper dunnage to keep cargo clear of the tank top.
- Keeping cargo away from the sides of the hold.
- Covering cargo with waterproof sheeting.
27
What is the primary purpose of a draught survey?
A draught survey determines cargo weight by calculating the difference in vessel's displacement before and after cargo operations, based on Archimedes' principle of flotation.
28
What is the accuracy level of a properly conducted draught survey?
An accurately performed draught survey has an acceptable error margin of +-0.5% of total cargo weight.
29
What are the key measurements required during a draught survey?
- Draft readings forward, amidships and aft on both sides.
- Water density using a hydrometer.
- Tank sounding for ballast, fuel and other liquids.
30
What are independent surveyors important for official surveys?
Independent surveyors provide an unbiased set of eyes and ears on the ground, helping prevent disputes and ensuring accurate documentation of cargo quantities for commercial transactions.
31
What are the key commercial benefits of draught surveys?
- Verification of actual quantities by a trusted third-party.
- Prevention of future disputes.
- Reduction of trade risks.
32
What does the IMSBC Code stand for?
International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code.
33
What is the IMSBC Code and when did it become mandatory?
- Became mandatory under SOLAS Chapter VI on January 1, 2011.
34
What are the three main cargo groups classified under the IMSBC Code?
- Group A: Cargoes that may liquify.
- Group B: Cargoes with chemical hazards.
- Group C: Generally hazardous cargoes that are not A or B.
35
What is the primary aim of the IMSBC Code?
To facilitate safe stowage and shipment of solid bulk cargoes by providing information about cargo dangers and establishing procedures for loading and unloading.
36
How often is the IMSBC updated?
Amended every two years.
37
Does the IMSBC Code cover all types of bulk cargo?
No, the IMSBC Code does not cover the carriage of grain in bulk, which is instead regulated under the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk.
38
What are the main stability precautions when loading high-density bulk cargo?
High-density cargo must be carefully distributed to avoid excessive stresses
-should preferably be loaded in lower hold cargo spaces rather than 'tween-decks, and must not overload deck areas while maintaining minimum acceptable stability levels.
39
What essential cargo spaces inspections are required before loading?
Before loading, cargo spaces must be inspected for:
1. Proper bilge well and strainer plate condition.
2. Good Condition of bilge lines, sounding pipes, and service lines.
3. Functioning water ingress monitoring alarm systems.
40
What ventilation requirements must be followed during loading/unloading?
Ventilation systems should be turned off or covered, and air conditioning systems should be set to recirculate to prevent dust from entering living quarters and interior spaces, especially for dust-generating cargoes like coal.
41
What are the correct actions if the coal you are loading is creating a lot of dust?
1. Stop the load.
2. Evacuate the area until the dust has cleared.
3. Ensure accommodation air conditioning is on recirculation to avoid contamination.
42
What are the safety measures for shifting cargoes?
For cargoes that may readily shift, shifting divisions and bins of adequate strength must be erected in 'tween-deck cargo spaces or partially-filled cargo spaces.
43
What post-loading checks are required|?
After loading is complete, bilges should be sounded to check for any damage to cargo space fittings, particularly when high-density cargoes have been loaded at high-speeds.
44
How many groupings of cargo are there under the IMSBC Code?
Three. They are groups A, B and C.
45
What are Group A cargoes under the IMSBC Code?
Cargoes that may liquefy or dynamically seperate if shipped with a moisture content exceeding their Transportable Moisture Limit.
46
What are Group B cargoes under the IMSBC Code?
Cargoes that possess chemical hazards which could create dangerous situations on vessels.
47
What are Group C cargoes under the IMSBC Code?
Non-hazardous cargoes that are neither Group A nor B, though they may still carry some risks like high density or dust generation.
48
What special consideration should be given to Group A cargoes?
They must be tested for Transportable Moisture Limit 9TML) and actual moisture content before shipping.
49
How are Group B cargoes sub-classified?
1. 'Dangerous goods in solid form in bulk' under the IMDG code.
2. 'Materials hazardous only in bulk' (MHB).
50
Can a cargo be classified in multiple groups?
Yes, a cargo can be classified as both Group A and B, meaning it has both liquefaction risks and chemical hazards. For example, coal is designated as both Group A and B unless proven otherwise by specific testing.
51
What precautions should be taken with unlisted cargoes?
The absence of an IMSBC Code listing or Group A/B classification must never be taken as proof that a cargo is harmless. In fact, cargoes which are not listed in the OMSBC Code may not be carried without a tripartite agreement being in place between the loading and discharging countries and the flag state of the vessel.
52
If you suspect that the moisture content of a cargo is more than the declared moisture content, what can you do?
Conduct a 'can test' of the cargo as outlined in the IMSBC code.
53
What are the key mandatory elements that must be included in a cargo declaration form?
1. Cargo group classification (A, B, C, or combination).
2. Total quantity of cargo.
3. Bulk Cargo Shipping Name (BCSN).
4. IMO class and UN Number (if applicable).
5. Bulk density information (mandatory as of January 1, 2025).
6, Moisture content and TML certificates for Group A cargoes.
7. Any chemical hazards to special handling requirements.
54
What are the time limitations for moisture content and TML Certificates?
The certificates must meet these requirements:
1. TML certificate must be issued within six months before loading.
2. Mositure content certificate must be issued no more than seven days before loading.
3. Additional testing may be required if conditions change.
55
What should the Master do if cargo information is incomplete or suspicious?
1. Refuse to load until an accurate cargo declaration is presented.
2. Not allow loading to start if required information is missing?
3. Verify suspicious or potentially falsified information before loading.
4. Request additional testing if cargo properties don't match the declaration.
56
How is the Can Test properly conducted?
The Can Terst procedure involves:
1. Using a 0.5 litre cylindrical container.
2. Half-filling it with cargo sample
3. Stirking it against a hard surface from 0.2 meters height.
4. Repeating 25 times at 1-2 second intervals.
5. Examining for free moisture or fluid conditions.
6. Documenting the test with photos or video.
7. Requiring additional laboratory testing if moisture is observed.
57
What happens if there are discrepancies in cargo declarations?
Common discrepancies include:
1. Incorrect cargo group declarations.
2. Missing or contradictory TML information.
3. Use of trade names instead of BCSN.
4. Incomplete certification.
5. Mismatched cargo properties.
These issues must be resolved before loading can commence.
58
What is the angle of repose and why is it important in bulk cargo shipping?
- Internal angle between a pile of bulk material and the horizontal surface.
- It indicates how likely a cargo is to shift during transport.
- Material with lower angles are more prone to shifting, while angles indicate more stable cargoes.
59
What are the three main categories of trimming requirements based on angle of repose?
- Cargoes with angle under 30 degrees (treated like grain).
- Cargoes with angle 30-35 degrees (maximum unevenness B/10, up to 1.5m).
- Cargoes with angle over 35 degrees (maximum unevenness B/10, up to 2m).
60
How is the angle of repose properly measured onboard?
- Using a horizontal vibration-free table.
- Testing three samples.
- Measuring four points 90 degrees apart on each sample.
- Taking the average of the twelve measurements.
- Report to the nearest half-degree.
61
What special requirements apply to cargoes with an angle of repose of under 30 degrees?
- Be treated according to grain cargo provisions.
- Have appropriate scantlings and securing arrangements.
- Consider bulk density in stability calculations.
- Follow International Grain Code Requirements.
62
Who is responsible for declaring the angle of repose, and what are the implications?
The shipper is responsible for declaring the angle of repose on the cargo information form. This declaration is binding and determines how the cargo must be loaded, trimmed, and carried, regardless of what the cargo schedule specifies.
63
What is the significance of B/10 in cargo trimming requirements?
B/10 (where B is the vessel's beam in meters) represents the maximum allowed unevenness of the cargo surface, measured as the vertical distance between the highest and lowest levels of the cargo. If the vessel's beam is 20m then the B/10 value would be 2m.
64
What is the purpose of the Individual Schedule of Cargoes in Appendix 1 of the IMSBC Code?
Provides detailed information about specific bulk cargoes, including their properties, hazards, and handling requirements, arranged alphabetically by Bulk Cargo Shipping Name (BCSN).
65
What are the key pieces of information provided for each cargo in its schedule?
- Physical properties (description, size, bulk density...).
- Safety classification (hazards, MHB status, cargo group).
- Handling requirements (stowage, loading, discharge).
- Emergency procedures.
- Weather precautions.
- Clean-up requirements.
66
Why do some cargo entries have longer schedules than others?
More hazardous materials require longer entries due to their complex safety requirements. For example, coal has an eleven-page entry because it's classified as both Group A and B, requiring extensive safety measures and handling procedures.
66
How is coal classified under the IMSBC Code and why?
Coal is classified by default as both Group A and B cargo, meaning it can liquefy (Group A) and possess chemical hazards (Group B). It can be classified as Group B only if proven by competent authority testing or if it meets specific particle size criteria.
66
What should the vessel's crew do before handling any solid bulk cargo?
- Consult the relevant schedule in Appendix 1.
- Review all safety requirements and precautions.
- Verify the cargo's classification and properties.
- Ensure compliance with all listed handling procedures.
67
What are the main hazards associated with coal cargo?
- Liquefaction risk if moisture content exceeds TML.
- Self-heating potential leading to combustion.
- Methane gas emission creating explosion risks.
- Corrosion through sulfuric acid formation.
- Oxygen depletion in cargo spaces.
68
What are the key requirements for moisture control in coal cargoes?
- TML certificate valid within six months of loading.
- Moisture Content certificate issued within seven days of loading.
- No loading during rain or other precipitation.
- Can test if moisture content is suspected to be excessive.
69
What ventilation procedures should be followed for coal cargoes?
Surface ventilation should be conducted for the first 24 hours after departure, with gas monitoring during this period. After 24 hours, ventilation should be stopped unless methane levels exceed 20% of LEL, as unnecessary ventilation may trigger self-heating.
70
What monitoring is required during coal cargo carriage?
- Methane gas levels.
- Oxygen concentration.
- Carbon monoxide levels (indicator of self-heating).
- Temperature checks using infrared thermometer.
- PH levels of bilge water to detect acid formation.
71
What immediate actions should be taken if coal self-heating is detected?
- Close all ventilation to the affected hold.
- Alert coastal authorities.
- Prepare firefighting equipment.
- Consider CO2 system activation (if fitted).
- Monitor vessel's stability.
- Consider seeking a port of refuge.
72
What is the purpose of the BLU Code?
Promotes good communication between vessel and shore, encourages proper planning and monitoring of cargo operations, and aims to ensure that bulk carriers are loaded and discharged in a manner that maintains the vessel's structural integrity and stability at all times.
73
What key information must the vessel provide to the terminal?
- Vessel identification (name, call sign, IMO number).
- Loading plan with cargo quantities and stowage details.
- Arrival and departure drafts.
- Vessel's dimensions and technical specifications.
- De-ballasting requirements.
- Cargo handling gear details.
74
What critical information must the terminal provide to the vessel?
- Berth details estimated berthing times.
- Loading/unloading equipment characteristics.
- Water depth, density and air draft.
- Any cargo hazards.
- Mooring requirements.
75
Why is the Ship/Shore Safety Checklist important?
The checklist helps prevent misunderstandings between the vessel and terminal personnel by ensuring both parties understand each other's capabilities and limitations. It serves as a tool to identify potential issues before operations begin.
76
What information does an S-code provide?
An S-code provides information for spill repones to emergencies involving dangerous goods.
77
Why is ventilation particularly important on Ro-Ro vessels?
- Enclosed car decks can fill with vehicle exhaust during loading and unloading.
- to ensure a safe working environment.
78
What makes Ro-Ro vessels particularly venerable to free surface effect?
- Their car decks run the entire length and breadth of the vessel creating a large FSE?
79
Why aren't vehicle brakes sufficient for securing cargo at sea?
Vehicle brakes are not designed to handle the external physical forces experienced at sea, requiring additional securing methods.
80
What new hazard is emerging with the increase in electric vehicles?
Lithium ion batteries introduce new fire risks compared to traditional petrol and diesel cars.
81
What is the minimum ventilation requirement for Ro-Ro spaces on cargo vessels?
Ro-Ro cargo spaces require a minimum of six air changes per hour.
82
What are the min and max oxygen and max CO2 levels that should be maintained in Ro-Ro vehicle spaces?
The atmosphere should maintain 20% oxygen content and carbon monoxide levels below 30 ppm.
83
What should drivers be instructed to do to reduce fume accumulation?
They should be instructed to stop their engines as soon as practicable after embarking and avoid starting up prior to departure until instructed.
84
What is the simplest way to prevent free surface effect?
Ensure tanks are either pressed up full or empty, as free surface effect does not exist in a full tank where liquid cannot move.
85
How can tank design reduce free surface effect?
By using longitudinal separations to divide one long tank into multiple smaller tanks across the vessel's beam, which limits the amount of liquid movement and reduces free surface forces.
86
What is thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries?
Thermal runaway is a dangerous chain reaction where a battery cell experiences uncontrollable heating, causing chemical reactions that generate more heat and toxic, flammable gases.
87
What is the main challenge in fighting EV battery fires?
These fires are extremely difficult to extinguish because they are self-sustaining and may reignite hours or even days after being initially cooled.
88
What documentation must a RoRo vessel carry regarding cargo securing?
The vessel must carry an approved Cargo Securing Manual that describes cargo securing procedures and materials used for lashing.
89
What basic safety equipment must all personnel wear on car decks?
All personnel must wear hard hats and hi-visibility jackets at a minimum, with ear defenders when necessary due to noise levels.
90
What is Crude Oil Washing?
(COW)
Is a system used on oil tankers to clean the cargo tanks using the vessel's own cargo of crude oil.
91
What are the advantages of COW?
- Increases cargo yield.
- Reduces potential pollution.
- Reduces tank cleaning time and avoids manual de-sludging.
- Reduces tank corrosion.
92
What is a COW Manual?
An approved COW operations and Equipment Manual must be carried on every tanker equipped with a COW system.
93
What does the COW Manual contain?
- Description of the system.
- Instructions for conducting crude oil washing.
- Safety precautions.
- Details of equipment maintenance and inspection routines.
- Emergency shutdown procedures.
- Procedures for crew training.
94
What is the flammable range?
A range of concentrations in which a mixture of hydrocarbon gas and air can be ignited and burned.
95
What is the Lower Flammable Limit (LFL)?
The hydrocarbon below which there is insufficient hydrocarbon gas to support and propagate combustion.
96
Why can a space containing a mix of air and hydrocarbon gas not simply be ventilated to gas free it?
Diluting the tank with air will eventually create a flammable atmosphere which could explode.
97
What is the correct process for gas-freeing using inert gas?
- Dilute the atmosphere in the tank with inert gas until below the 'critical dilution with air' line on the flammability curve.
- Dilute the atmosphere with air until it is 'gas-freed' i.e. contains no hydrocarbons and an ambient concentration of oxygen.
98
What is the maximum oxygen content that inert gas is permitted to contain when being used to inert cargo tanks?
8% oxygen by volume.
99
Can you name the two tests typically used to gauge flammability?
- The Reid Vapour Test.
- Flashpoint Testing.
100
What flashpoint temperature separates volatile and non-volatile petroleum-based liquids?
60 degrees C.
101
Explain 'too lean to burn' to the flammable range.
This refers to the lower limit of the flammable range i.e. the Lower Flammable Limit (LFL). It is the hydrocarbon concentration below which there are insufficient hydrocarbon gas molecules relative to the oxygen molecules to support combustion.
102
Explain 'too rich to burn' in relation to the flammable range?
This refers to the upper limit of the flammable range, i.e. the Upper Flammable Limit (UFL). It is the hydrocarbon concentration above which there are insufficient oxygen molecules to support combustion.
103
What is the main purpose of an inert gas system on a tanker?
To prevent fire or explosion by maintaining an non-flammable atmosphere in cargo tanks.
104
What are some of the sources of Inert Gas that could be used on a tanker?
- Exhaust gas from the main and auxiliary boilers (flue gas).
- An independent inert gas generator.
- A gas turbine plant when equipped with an afterburner.
105
What is a deck seal in an inert gas system and how does it work?
A water-filled barrier that prevents flammable vapours from flowing back into the inert gas system. It allows inert gas to pass through but blocks reverse flow using a liquid seal that vapours cannot pass back through.
106
What are the requirements for the max oxygen content of inert gas?
ISGOTT requires that the inert gas must be generated with an oxygen content of not more than 5% and that the inerted tanks must not exceed 8%.
107
What does 'purging' mean, in the context of inert gas systems?
Introducing inert gas into a tank that is already inerted with the intent of further reducing the oxygen and hydrocarbon gas content to level where combustion cannot be supported if air is then introduced to gas-free the tank
108
What are the key components of an inert gas system?
- Inert gas source.
- Scrubber and demister.
- Blowers.
- Deck seal.
- Various isolating and non-return valves.
- P/V Breaker.
- Riser.
109
What does ISGOTT stand for?
International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals.
110
What is the purpose of ISGOTT?
The purpose of ISGOTT is to provide industry-approved guidance to ensure the safe handling of petroleum cargoes on oil tankers and at terminals.
111
What does ISGOTT contain?
Safe procedures for oil tanker and terminal operations, including cargo handling, tank cleaning, gas freeing, inerting enclosed space entry and emergency response.
112
What is the key industry guide for the safe operation of chemical tankers?
International Chamber of Shipping's Tanker Safety Guide.
113
What is the purpose of the Ship/Shore Checklist?
The ship/shore Safety checklist helps promote safe and efficient cargo operations by fostering clear communication and responsibilities between vessel and terminal personnel. It is completed jointly before commencing operations.
114
What does the Ship/Shore Checklist contain?
- Safe access.
- Mooring arrangements.
- Cargo transfer procedures.
- Emergency procedures.
- Communications.
115
Which type of chemical tanker is designed to carry the most hazardous cargo?
A 'Type 1' vessel under the IBC Code.
116
Where can information on chemicals which can be carried be found?
Chapter 17 of the IBC Code.
117
What is in the IBC code?
International Code For The Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk or the International Bulk Chemical Code.
118
What does the IBC Code do?
Sets requirements for the design, construction and equipment of chemical tankers, in relation to the cargoes that they intended to carry.
119
Which certificate permits a chemical tanker to operate?
International Certificate of Fitness for the carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk.
120
Which documents would be required before loading?
- Cargo manifest.
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
- Tank cleaning plan.
- Cargo compatibility documentation.
- Loading plan.
- Tank history.
121
What are the main features of an LNG carrier?
- A double-hulled structure.
- Insulated cargo tanks.
- Dual-fuel propulsion.
- Cargo handling systems.
122
What temperature is LNG carried at?
-162 degrees C.
123
Explain the term 'dual fuel' in relation to LNG ships.
Many modern LNG carriers use dual-fuel engines that can run on both LNG boil-off gas (BOG) and conventional marine fuels, reducing emissions and operational costs.
124
What type are the three types of LPG carriers.
- Fully pressurised.
- Semi refrigerated.
- Fully refrigerated.
125
Which vessels does the IGC Code apply to?
It applies to vessels carrying liquefied gases in bulk, including those with a vapour pressure exceeding 2.8 bar at 37.8 degrees C and other substances listed in Chapter 19 of the Code.
126
What is the purpose of the IGC Code?
The IGC Code provides international standards for safe carriage of gas cargoes by laying down design, construction and equipment standards for the cargoes that the vessel intends to transport.
127
Which certificate certifies that a vessel is able to carry bulk gas cargoes?
International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk.
128
What are the construction categories of gas carriers under the IGC code?
- Type 1G (presents the greatest overall hazard).
- Type 2G.
- Type 2PG.
- Type 3G.
129
What purpose does Chapter 19 of the IGC Code serve?
Chapter 19 provides a tabulated summary of all liquefied gases and related products covered by the Code, detailing the minimum ship type and specific requirements for their safe carriage.
