Iron ore fines loaded at Indian ports *Update*

In view of the anticipated onset of the South-west Monsoon season members are reminded of the risks associated with carriage of iron ore fines with moisture content in excess of the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML).

The concerns of the club and IG are outlined in IG Circular ‘India – Safe Shipment of Iron Ore Fines from Indian Ports’ published 14 December 2010.

The club has produced loss prevention briefings on cargo liquefaction and iron ore fines to provide members with more information.

On 27 August 2010 the Indian Directorate General of Shipping issued Merchant Shipping Notice No. 9 of 2010 – Safe loading, stowage, carriage and discharging of iron ore fines on ships from Indian Ports in fair and foul season – reg.

The Notice sets out the Directorate’s position on the carriage of iron ore fines and lists the requirements for ships, ship operators, shippers and terminals. The requirements of MSNs 31 and 34 of 2009 (these can be found below) are still in force and should be strictly adhered to. The notice also reiterates the Master’s overriding authority to delay or cease loading where there may be doubt as to the characteristics of the cargo.

Members will also note the requirement for Port State Control Inspections of all vessels loading iron ore fines, concentrates and similar cargoes.

Please click here for a copy of Merchant Shipping Notice No. 9 of 2010.

Merchant Shipping Notice 31 of 2009 – Safe loading of solid bulk cargo with special reference to Iron ore fines from Indian ports – outlines the nature of problems experienced and identifies the relevant statutory and recommendatory procedures that should be implemented by the ship, shipper and port terminal to reduce the likelihood of repeated occurrence.

Merchant Shipping Notice 34 of 2009 – Additional safeguards for safe carriage of solid bulk cargo especially Iron ore fines from Indian Ports – identifies further examples of poor practice by shippers and port authorities and encourages ships’ masters to exercise their authority as outlined in National and International law, and Merchant Shipping Notice No 18 of 2009.

Click here for more information on this subject.