A vessel carrying maize experienced cargo damage during a voyage from Mexico to Southern Africa. The incident highlights the risks associated with fumigation practices and changing climatic conditions during long passages.
What Happened
The vessel loaded white maize in warm conditions of around 30°C. After completion of loading, the cargo holds were fumigated, and instructions required the holds to remain closed until 12 hours before arrival at the discharge port. The vessel transited via the Magellan Straits, encountering ambient temperatures near 0°C. On arrival at the first discharge port, mould was found on the cargo surface in all holds. Condensation stains were visible on the hatch covers and coamings, and maize had germinated in areas where water had dripped or run onto the stow. Stevedores manually segregated the damaged surface cargo, after which the remaining cargo was discharged in sound condition.
Why It Happened
The damage was caused by ship’s sweat, where moisture condensed on cold steel surfaces inside the holds due to the sharp temperature drop during the voyage. Condensed water dripped or ran onto the cargo, wetting and damaging the surface layers. Extended closure of the holds, as per fumigation instructions, prevented timely ventilation that could have reduced condensation.
Actions Taken
Damaged surface layers were removed manually and by grab. The sound cargo beneath was then discharged without further issues.
Lessons Learned
- Ventilation of holds after a typical fumigation exposure period (often around 10 days) could prevent or minimize condensation-related damage.
- Fumigation instructions should be clarified in advance with fumigators and charterers, as they focus solely on pest control and may not consider environmental conditions expected during the voyage.
- Crew should assess temperature variations on the intended route and plan cargo care measures accordingly.
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Source: Swedish Club
