Online dry bulk training specialists Vistrato have produced a detailed COVID-19 “Guide to Ship/Shore Interactions during Solid Bulk Operations”. INTERCARGO and DBTG (International Dry Bulk Terminals Group) have partnered with Vistrato to support and distribute the guide throughout their membership.
The guide aims to assist the dry bulk sector by implementing the IMO recommendations set out in Circular Letter 4204/Add.6 (found here). This circular encourages the use of electronic solutions to reduce risks arising from interactions and document exchanges between ship and shore personnel.
The guide also highlights the key documentary and operational requirements imposed on the shipment of solid bulk cargoes as set out in:
-
- the BLU Code – Code of Practice for the Safe Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers,
- the IMSBC (International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes) Code,
- the International Grain Code,
- the ISPS Code, and
- Marpol Annex V
A key message highlighted in the guide is that, as far as possible, all ship/shore exchanges required by the above codes should be carried out in advance of the ship’s arrival. This should help to clarify and resolve issues at an early stage and minimise discussions and meetings on board after a vessel has berthed.
The guide also sets out guidelines for situations after the vessel has arrived, including pre-cargo transfer safety checks and cargo hold entry.
A full copy of the Vistrato guide can be found here.
