AMSA Focus on Proper Stowage of Containers
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) have released marine notice 2018/3 advising Masters and owners of their intended focus on the stowage and securing of cargo containers during port State control (PSC) inspections.
Port state control inspectors will be checking that the cargo is loaded in compliance with the vessel’s Cargo Securing Manual and in accordance with Chapter VI of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention.
AMSA warns that if evidence is found during a PSC inspection that;
- the weight distribution and stack weights are not in compliance with the approved cargo stowage arrangements; or
- the securing arrangements are not in accordance with the approved Cargo Securing Manual; or
- the Cargo Securing Manual does not adequately cover the cargo being carried;
appropriate action will be taken to bring the vessel back into compliance.
Marine notice 2018/3 can be read here.