- Correct cargo gauging procedures will control which ullaging and sampling points may be opened for the short periods necessary for ullaging and sampling.
- Agreement should be reached, and recorded, as to the venting system for the operation, taking into account the nature of the cargo and international, national or local regulations and agreements.
- The ship’s radar installation should not be used unless the master, in consultation with the terminal manager, has established the conditions under which the installation may be used safely.
Cargo loading and unloading operations of seagoing chemical carriers involve numerous critical procedures that need to be precisely monitored, says an article published on chemical tanker guide website.
Are all cargo and bunker tank lids closed?
Apart from the openings in use for tank venting all openings to cargo tanks should be closed and gas-tight. Correct cargo gauging procedures will control which ullaging and sampling points may be opened for the short periods necessary for ullaging and sampling.
Closed ullaging and sampling systems should be used where required by international, national or local regulations and agreements.
Is the agreed tank venting system being used?
Agreement should be reached, and recorded, as to the venting system for the operation, taking into account the nature of the cargo and international, national or local regulations and agreements. There are three basic systems for venting tanks:
- open to atmosphere via open ullage ports, protected by suitable flame screens;
- fixed venting systems (which includes inert gas systems);
Has the operation of the PIV valves and /or high velocity vents been verified using the check-lift facility, where fitted?
The operation of the P/V valves and/or high velocity vents should be checked using the testing facility provided by the manufacturer. Furthermore, it is imperative that whilst doing so, an adequate visual or other check is made to ensure that the check-lift is actually operating the valve.
On occasion a seized or stiff vent has caused the check-lift drive pin to shear and the ship’s personnel to assume, with disastrous consequences, that the vent was operational.
Are portable VHF transceivers of an approved type?
Battery operated hand torches and VHF radio-telephone sets should be of a safe type which is approved by a competent authority. Ship/shore telephones should comply with the requirements for explosion proof construction except when placed in a safe space in the accommodation.
VHF radio telephone sets may operate in the internationally agreed wave bands only. All such equipment should be well maintained. Damaged units, even though they may be capable of operation, should not be used.
Are the ship’s main radio transmitter aerials earthed and radars switched off?
The ship’s main radio station should not be used during the ship’s stay in port, except for receiving purposes. The main transmitting aerials should be disconnected and earthed. Satellite communications equipment may be used normally unless advised otherwise.
The ship’s radar installation should not be used unless the master, in consultation with the terminal manager, has established the conditions under which the installation may be used safely.
For previous question please check ship& shore checklist article.
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Source: chemical tanker guide
