Maritime Safety Awareness Bulletin issue 22 – Cargo securing of containers

Summary

Recent AMSA inspections across ships visiting our ports have found serious issues involving cargo containers such as overloaded stacks, corroded securing gear and cargo not appropriately secured during voyage.

Under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and Marine Order 42, cargo must be secured for the entire voyage. This means while at sea, and during loading and discharge.

To improve container security and prevent loss:

• Identify cargo risks and manage them through your safety management system (SMS).
• Apply and regularly review safety measures and controls to ensure controls remain effective, in light of new information or change operationally.
• Regularly inspect and maintain securing equipment (lashing rods, twist locks, chains) in good condition.
• Ensure crew are appropriately trained and are familiar with the cargo securing manual and keep procedures clear and up to date.
• Plan for heavy weather through use of weather routing and ensure the master and crew have access to the latest weather forecasts before and during the voyage.

Read issue 22

This bulletin highlights lessons from major container loss incidents and strategies to improve compliance.