LEARNERS GUIDE

Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Level 1

Commonwealth of Learning (COL)

Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth (VUSSC)
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Commonwealth of Learning (COL)

December 2009

The Commonwealth of Learning

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Vancouver BC, V6E 2E9
Canada
Fax: +1 604 775-8210
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www. www.col.org/vussc
Acknowledgements
The VUSSC Team wishes to thank those below for their contribution to this Transport and Logistics /
Stevedoring - Level 1 learners’ guide.

Alexandre Alix Bastienne Seychelles, Africa

Fritz H. Pinnock Jamaica, Caribbean

Mohamed Liraar Maldives, Asia

Ibrahim Ajugunna Jamaica, Caribbean

Maxime James Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean

Griffin Royston St Kitts and Nevis, Caribbean

Vilimi Vakautapola Vi Tonga, Pacific

Neville Asser Mbai Namibia, Africa

Kennedy Glenn Lightbourne Bahamas, Caribbean

Glenward A. Bain Bahamas, Caribbean

Sateki Manu Tonga, Pacific

Letsie Mohatonyane Lesotho, Africa

Dr. Mamolete Mohapi Lesotho, Africa

Philip Grey Johnson Gambia, Africa

Lamin Touray Gambia, Africa

Kelvin Harris Trinidad & Tobago, Caribbean

Harjiwan Kallee Mauritius, Africa

Leulua'itumua Fatu Lafoa'I Samoa, Pacific

Sonny Brown Samoa, Pacific

Tauvaga Vaai Samoa, Pacific

David Asi Samoa, Pacific

Sakaria Leatuaoa Samoa, Pacific

Siaosi Wongkee Samoa, Pacific

Samuel Phineas Samoa, Pacific

REVIEWERS
Ibrahim Ajagunna, PhD
Fritz Pinnock, PhD
 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Contents
About this Learners Guide 1
How this document is structured ...................................................................................... 1

Course overview 3
Welcome to Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring ......................................................... 3
Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring Level 1—is this course for you? ......................... 4
Course outcomes ............................................................................................................... 4
Timeframe ......................................................................................................................... 5
Study skills ........................................................................................................................ 5
Need help? ........................................................................................................................ 6
Assignments ...................................................................................................................... 6
Assessments ...................................................................................................................... 7

Getting around this document 8

Margin icons ..................................................................................................................... 8

Unit 1 9
Personnel safety ................................................................................................................ 9
Introduction ............................................................................................................. 9
1. Personnel Protective Equipment ....................................................................... 12
2. Restricted Areas ................................................................................................ 22
3. Fatigue ............................................................................................................... 24
4. Personnel Safety Management System ............................................................. 26
Unit summary ................................................................................................................. 27
Assignment ..................................................................................................................... 27
Assessment...................................................................................................................... 28

Unit 2 31
Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures ............................................ 31
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 31
1. Procedures and policies relating to workplace safety ....................................... 36
2. Potential hazards................................................................................................ 38
3. Occupational, Health and Safety Requirements ................................................ 41
4. Employee safety responsibilities ....................................................................... 42
5. Safety signs, signals and symbols ..................................................................... 42
6. Workplace hazards ............................................................................................ 49
7. General safety rules ........................................................................................... 51
8. Safety Procedures for Ship and Port Equipment ............................................... 53
9. Safety procedures for industrial shoreside equipment ...................................... 56
10. Accident Reporting.......................................................................................... 58
ii Contents

11. Handling of Dangerous Goods ....................................................................... 60

Unit summary ................................................................................................................. 64
Assignment ..................................................................................................................... 65
Assessment...................................................................................................................... 66
Assessment Methods....................................................................................................... 67
References, Web Resources and Resource Files ............................................................ 67

Unit 3 68
Cargo Handling Operation .............................................................................................. 68
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 68
1. Types of Cargo .................................................................................................. 71
2. Cargo Documentation........................................................................................ 78
3. Pre Arrival Planning .......................................................................................... 87
4. Loading and Off-loading Operations ................................................................ 91
Unit summary ............................................................................................................... 119
Assignment ................................................................................................................... 120
Assessment.................................................................................................................... 121
Case Study .................................................................................................................... 122

Unit 4 124
Cargo Handling Equipment .......................................................................................... 124
Introduction ......................................................................................................... 124
1. Ships’ Lifting Equipment ................................................................................ 126
2. Shore Lifting Equipment ................................................................................. 134
3. Cargo Moving Equipment ............................................................................... 137
4. Cargo Handling Gears ..................................................................................... 140
5. Limitations of Cargo Handling Equipment ..................................................... 150
6. Safety and Maintenance of Cargo Handling Equipment ................................. 152
Unit summary ............................................................................................................... 156
Assignment 1 ................................................................................................................ 157
Assessment 2................................................................................................................. 159
Assessment 3................................................................................................................. 160
Assessment 4................................................................................................................. 160
Assessment 5................................................................................................................. 161
Assessment 6................................................................................................................. 161

Unit 5 163
Maritime Security ......................................................................................................... 163
Introduction ......................................................................................................... 163
1.ISPS Familiarization Training .......................................................................... 165
2. Security Responsibilities ................................................................................. 174
3. Documentation and Records ........................................................................... 176
4. Security of Cargo............................................................................................. 177
Unit summary ............................................................................................................... 184
Assignment ................................................................................................................... 184
Assessment.................................................................................................................... 185
 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

About this Learners Guide

Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring Level 1 has been produced by
VUSSC. All Learners Guide produced by VUSSC are structured in the
same way, as outlined below.

How this Learners guide is

structured
The course overview
The course overview gives you a general introduction to the course.
Information contained in the course overview will help you determine:
 If the course is suitable for you.
 What you will already need to know.
 What you can expect from the course.
 How much time you will need to invest to complete the course.
The overview also provides guidance on:
 Study skills.
 Where to get help.
 Course assignments and assessments.
 Activity icons.
 Units.

We strongly recommend that you read the overview carefully before

starting your study.

The course content

The course is broken down into units. Each unit comprises:
 An introduction to the unit content.
 Unit outcomes.
 New terminology.
 Core content of the unit with a variety of learning activities.
 A unit summary.
 Assignments and/or assessments, as applicable.

Resources

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About this Learners Guide Personnel safety

For those interested in learning more on this subject, we provide you with
a list of additional resources at the end of this Learners guide; these may
be books, articles or web sites.

Your comments
After completing Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring we would
appreciate it if you would take a few moments to give us your feedback
on any aspect of this course. Your feedback might include comments on:
 Course content and structure.
 Course reading materials and resources.
 Course assignments.
 Course assessments.
 Course duration.
 Course support (assigned tutors, technical help, etc.)
Your constructive feedback will help us to improve and enhance this
course.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Course overview

Welcome to Transport and

Logistics - Stevedoring
The global container-shipping industry is the backbone of
intercontinental supply chains, accounting for some 98% of inter-
continental containerized trade volume and 60% of trade value.
International trade is facilitated by freight logistics services, which
provide efficient integrated management of point-to-point supply
and distribution chains. Logistics suppliers manage the supply
chain process by planning, implementing, and controlling the
efficient and effective point-to-point flow and storage of goods,
services and related information, throughout the production,
distribution and delivery stages, from the initial suppliers of inputs
to final consumers of products. Logistics services form a crucial
and integral part of the supply chain management and a major
determining factor of the competitiveness of an economy in global
trade and investment.
The twentieth century was the age of machine; the twenty-first
century will be the age of people (Kanter cited in Kermally, 2006).
Globalisation, empowerment, cross functional teams, downsizing,
learning organisation and knowledge workers are changing the way
of life of managers and the way they manage people (Kermally,
2006). The shipping industry has become a prime example of a
globalised industry now attached loosely to national sovereignties.
Shipping differs from other examples of global business, such as
fast food chain and the auto companies in that the physical capital
is itself movable in a way a burger kiosk or car plant is not.
The word stevedore describes a man who stuffs, loads and unloads
ships. This Loading and unloading ships requires knowledge of the
operation of loading equipment, the proper techniques for lifting
and stowing cargo and correct handling of hazardous materials. It is
also the requirements that stevedores must be physically strong and
be able to follow orders. Before the advent of containerization,
stevedores are required to tie down cargoes with rope. Otherwise
known as lashing. Stevedores include crane operators, truck
drivers, container trackers as well as various supervisors.

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Course overview Personnel safety

Transport and Logistics -

Stevedoring Level 1—is this
course for you?
This course is intended for cargo handlers who are new to the stevedoring
and ports industry, either in permanent or casual employment. The course
focuses on the terminologies used in port and stevedoring operations,
driving within a port environment, safety issues surrounding work in a
port environment, communication skills, and the core knowledge and
skills that relate to cargo operations. It also provides further skills in
aspects of cargo operations that are location or enterprise specific, as well
as in first aid.
This qualification has some standards in common with, and can lead on to
Certificate in Stevedoring Levels 1 to 3, which are intended for cargo
handlers and port machinery operators.

Course outcomes
Upon completion of Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring Level 1 you
will be able to:

 Identify risk and apply risk management processes

 Check and evaluate records and documentation
 Organize and monitor terminal operations
Outcomes
 Implement and monitor stevedoring regulations
 Monitor crane operations
 Direct crane operations
 Use communication system
 Coordinate stevedoring clerical functions

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Timeframe
[What is the expected duration of this course?]
[How much formal study time is required?]
[How much self-study time is expected/recommended?]
How long?

Study skills
As an adult learner your approach to learning will be different to that
from your school days: you will choose what you want to study, you will
have professional and/or personal motivation for doing so and you will
most likely be fitting your study activities around other professional or
domestic responsibilities.
Essentially you will be taking control of your learning environment. As a
consequence, you will need to consider performance issues related to
time management, goal setting, stress management, etc. Perhaps you will
also need to reacquaint yourself in areas such as essay planning, coping
with exams and using the web as a learning resource.
Your most significant considerations will be time and space i.e. the time
you dedicate to your learning and the environment in which you engage
in that learning.
We recommend that you take time now—before starting your self-
study—to familiarize yourself with these issues. There are a number of
excellent resources on the web. A few suggested links are:

 http://www.how-to-study.com/
The “How to study” web site is dedicated to study skills resources.
You will find links to study preparation (a list of nine essentials for a
good study place), taking notes, strategies for reading text books,
using reference sources, test anxiety.

 http://www.ucc.vt.edu/stdysk/stdyhlp.html
This is the web site of the Virginia Tech, Division of Student Affairs.
You will find links to time scheduling (including a “where does time
go?” link), a study skill checklist, basic concentration techniques,
control of the study environment, note taking, how to read essays for
analysis, memory skills (“remembering”).

 http://www.howtostudy.org/resources.php
Another “How to study” web site with useful links to time
management, efficient reading, questioning/listening/observing skills,

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Course overview Personnel safety

getting the most out of doing (“hands-on” learning), memory building,

tips for staying motivated, developing a learning plan.
The above links are our suggestions to start you on your way. At the time
of writing these web links were active. If you want to look for more go to
www.google.com and type “self-study basics”, “self-study tips”, “self-
study skills” or similar.

Need help?
Is there a course web site address?
What is the course instructor's name? Where can s/he be located (office
location and hours, telephone/fax number, e-mail address)?
Help
Is there a teaching assistant for routine enquiries? Where can s/he be
located (office location and hours, telephone/fax number, e-mail
address)?
Is there a librarian/research assistant available? Where can s/he be located
(office location and hours, telephone/fax number, e-mail address)?
Is there a learners' resource centre? Where is it located? What are the
opening hours, telephone number, who is the resource centre manager,
what is the manager's e-mail address)?
Who do learners contact for technical issues (computer problems, website
access, etc.)

Assignments
[How many assignments are there for this course?]
[How are the assignments are to be submitted?]
[To whom should the assignments be submitted?]

Assignments [What is the schedule for submitting assignments? End of each unit?
Specific dates?]
[What is the order of the assignments? Must they be completed in the
order in which they are set?]

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Assessments
How many assessments will there be in this course?
Are they self-assessments or teacher-marked assessments?
Assessments When will the assessments take place?
How long will the assessments be?
How long will learners be allowed to complete the assessment(s)?
How long will it take a teacher to mark the assessment(s)?

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Getting around this Learners guide Personnel safety

Getting around this Learners guide

Margin icons
While working through this Learners guide you will notice the frequent
use of margin icons. These icons serve to “signpost” a particular piece of
text, a new task or change in activity; they have been included to help you
to find your way around this Learners guide.
A complete icon set is shown below. We suggest that you familiarize
yourself with the icons and their meaning before starting your study.

Activity Assessment Assignment Case study

Discussion Group activity Help Note it!

Outcomes Reading Reflection Study skills

Summary Terminology Time Tip

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Unit 1

Personnel safety
Introduction
This unit introduces you to the concept of safety of personnel in
stevedoring. Stevedores pose a regular and significant risk to ship
owners and port operators for personal injury claims not only because
they conduct potential hazardous operations in an unfamiliar environment
but because by its very nature stevedoring is a dangerous occupation.
Loading and unloading cargo is both a tedious and dangerous operation.
It requires knowledge of the operation of loading equipment, the proper
techniques for lifting and stowing cargo, and correct handling of
hazardous materials.Accidents and injuries to stevedores are often caused
by lack of knowledge and awareness on personnel protective equipment
(PPE) and procedures. It is important to pay strict adherence to the
correct use of PPE.
Upon completion of this unit you will be able to:

 identify types of personnel protection equipment (ppe) .

 describe the uses of the different types of ppe in the stevedoring
context..
Outcomes  state guidelines for using and storing ppe.
 explain the correct use of each ppe in the stevedoring context.
 demonstrate the correct use of each ppe in the stevedoring context..
 identify safety signs and symbols onboard ships.
 identify restricted and non restricted areas
 differentiate safety signs and symbols on dock side
 discuss relevant safety legislations and regulations
 describe the causes and effects of fatigue
 identify signs and symptoms of fatigue
 explain how organisations contribute to prevent fatigue

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Unit 1 Personnel safety

Fatigue: The degradation of human performance and the

impairment of rational decision making which has
implications for the overall safety of stevedoring
personnel (FAO/ILO/IMO, 2001).
Terminology
Dock side: The area immediately adjacent to a dock.

Defibrillation:: Consists of delivering those therapeutic doses of

electrical energy to the affected heart with a device
called a defibrillator. Defibrillators can be
external, transvenous or implanted depending on
the type of device used or needed.

Stevedore:: A person employed in loading and unloading of

ships.

Onboard:: Available and situated on board a ship

legislation:: Legislation (statutory law) is the law which has

been promulgated (enacted) by a legislature or
other governing body, or the process of making it.

Regulations:: Controlling human and societal behaviour by rules

or restrictions. Legal restrictions can be
promulgated by a government authority, self-
regulation, social regulation, co-regulation and
market regulation.

Gangways:: Manoeuvrable ramps or ladders which are lowered

: from the side of the ship to allow access or
Passageways along either side and throughout a
ship’s upper deck.
Restricted Area An area (land, sea or air) in which there are special
restrictive measures employed to prevent or
minimize interference. An area onboard ship in
which special security measures are employed to
prevent an unauthorised entry.
Confined space:: Dangerous or potentially dangerous work area
with only restricted openings for entry and exit
that will make an emergency escape difficult.
Bunker station::
A bin or tank used especially for fuel storage
A device designed to support and limits the motion
Back brace:: of the spine in cases of fracture.
State room:: A private cabin or compartment with sleeping
accommodation onboard a ship
Macro environment:: A company’s large societal forces that affect the
company’s daily operations. These include
demographic, economic, technological, political,
cultural and natural forces.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Galley: A compartment with kitchen facilities in which

cooking and other food preparations is done on
board ships.
The area of a ship from which the ship is
The Bridge: commanded by an officer of the watch, aided
usually by an able seaman acting as a watch-
keeper at support level.
American National Standards Institute
ANSI:

11
Unit 1 Personnel safety

1. Personnel Protective Equipment

The use of procective clothing is an important part of safe working
paractices. for many jobs adequate personnel protective equipment (PPE)
must be provided at work places. The use of procective equipment and
clothing is an important part of safe working practices. . For many jobs
adequate personnel protective equipment (PPE) must be provided at work
places.
In stevedoring, knowledge of and the correct use of PPE is crucial to the
safety of stevedores. If the knolowedge of how to properly use PPE is
lacking stevedores will very likely commit mistakes and accidents will
be prone to occur. Can you think of some of PPE a stevedore would use?
These are some of the recommended PPE for stevedores to use.While
some must always be worn or on hand for immediate use, the use of
others will be dependent on the particular conditions under which work is
being done.
- Safety vests – always worn
- Hard hats/safety helmets – always worn
- Steel toe boots- always work
- Protective eyewear- always worn
- Ear muffs and/or ear plugs- available for immediate use
- Air respirators- work conditions
-Dust Masks- available for immediate use
- Safety harness- work conditions
- Protective gloves- always work
- Back brace- always worn

SAFETY VESTS
A safety vest can be identified by highly visible colours made of
fluorescent fabric with reflective stripes. The use of safety vests should
be part of an integrated organisational approach to occupational health
and safety and to complement other control method
1. Guidelines for storage of safety vests
a. Must be kept clean and dry
b. They must be properly folded
c. The container for storage must be labelled and free of humidity
2, Donning of safety vests

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

I am colourful
and reflective

Can you explain the importance of colours and reflective stripes used on
safety vests?

HARD HATS/SAFETY HELMETS

The types of hard hats and safety helmets that a stevedore can use include
helmet, face shield, skull buckets, Bullard, fibre glass, ANSI, wear and
light weight. This device can be identified by style, colour and versatility
with the Standard Series.
1. Have hard protective padding inside the hard hat.
2 Appropriate use of hard hats

Henry the Hard Hat

Wear me always –
Rain or shine

Can you explain the importance of colours and reflective stripes used on

13
Unit 1 Personnel safety

safety vests?

STEEL TOE BOOTS:

The types of steel toe boots are classified using identifiable labels like
green triangle, yellow triangle, white square with own symbol, yellow
square with SD, red square with C and fir tree.

My name is RHINO
I protect toes

Identifiab
le Label

Read about the following symbols that are used to differentiate steel toe
boots:
a. 1, 2 or O - These labels indicate if the shoe has a steel-toe cap. A metal
shell is embedded on top of the toe part of the shoe.
- 0 means there is no resistance
- 0 means there is no resistance
- 1 means it resists an impact of 125 joules that is 22.7 kg object
falling from 56 cm above.
- 2 in this category means it resists an impact of 90 joules.
b. P or O - These labels indicate if the shoe has soles that protect the
arches of the feet from punctures. The label P means the shoe has such
soles and O means the shoe has no soles to protect the arches of the feet.
c. M or O - These symbols indicate if the shoe has a metatarsus protection
against shocks and collisions. M means it does and O is an indication
there is no metatarsus protection.
d. E, S or C - These labels indicate the shoe’s electrical properties. E
means it resists electrical shocks. S means it disperses static electrical. C
means it conducts electricity.
e. X or O. These labels are found only on shoes that protect the foot from
chainsaws. X means the shoe can protect the foot and O means it does
not.

State the five (5) types and classification of steel toe boots

14
 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

PR0PTECTIVE EYEWEAR:
Protective eyewear are used to protect the eyes against various hazards
such as flying particles, dust, molten matters, gasses, vapours, and
radiation (from welding, furnaces or the sun).

My
mission is
your
vision

1. Types of protective eyewear are identified with hazards. There are

three types of protective eyewear. Each type is designed for a specific
purpose. For your safety you need to understand the types of situation
each eyewear is most suitable.
a. Perspex safety glasses. These are appropriate for low velocity
flying particles.
b. Goggles. These are appropriate for medium to high velocity
flying particles with different work materials or metals.
c. Prescription Protective Eyewear. These are designed and made
available to people who are visually impaired to perform the
same function.
2. Guidelines for using protective eyewear: Remember before or when
using protective eyewear it is important you observe the following
guidelines. The protective eyewear should:
a. be part of an integrated organisational approach to
occupational health and safety
b. be used to complement other hazard control methods
c. be provided where it is not possible for an employer to
eliminate or control eye hazards via other control methods.

State six (6) reasons for wearing protective eyewear

EAR MUFFS AND EAR PLUGS:

Hearing protectors including ear muffs and ear plugs reduce the effects of noise that
may lead to hearing damage if used appropriately. At this point it is important we try to
differentiate between ear plugs and ear muffs, as this will help you see the specific
applications of each.
1. Ear Muffs: Ear muffs are cups which fit over ears and are connected
by a spring band normally worn over the head; the cups have soft

15
Unit 1 Personnel safety

cushions around the rims which seal them to the wearer’s head; and the
cups are normally filled with sound absorbe

If noise is your problem,

use me

2. Ear plugs: There are four types of

ear plugs each with a specific design
and procedure for wearing. Let’s take
a look at each type of ear plug and
notice how one is different form the others.
a. Pre-moulded ear plugs – inserted directly into ear canal
without the need for shaping
b. Formable ear plugs – moulded prior to insertion into the ear
canal following which the compressible material expands to fit
the ear canal
c. Custom made ear plugs – designed for individual’s ear canal
d. Banded ear plugs – suspended on headband

Me too!!!

Guidelines for using ear muffs and ear plugs

Whether it is ear plugs or ear muffs it is beneficial to you and your
organization to observe the following guidelines relating to the
application of such devices:
a. The use of ear muffs and ear pugs should be part of the
company’s comprehensive hearing protection program
b. Both devices should be used to complement other noise
management control methods.

Briefly describe ear muffs as used in stevedoring

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

AIR RESPIRATORS:
Air respirators aid breathing in situations where they are required. Knowledge of the
types and guidelines for using air respirators is very crucial.
1. Types of air respirators
There are two types of air respirators. Let’s take a look at each one.
a. Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). These units provide the highest level of
respiratory protection as compressed air is breathed in through a full face mask
connected to a cylinder.

I am here to
supply your air

b. Supply Air Respirators (SAR). This equipment is used to supply air from a full face
mask that is linked to an external air source by a hose or airline. It has a longer use
period and high levels of protection.

Just Breathe !!!

2. Guidelines for using air respirators

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Unit 1 Personnel safety

To ensure the appropriate use of air respirators you need to observe and strictly abide by
the following guidelines.
a. The effectiveness can be limited by improper use or selection of the
correct protection for a job
b. They protect as long as they are properly sealed to the face and are
worn during the entire chemical exposure.
Dust Masks- Information to be inserted
Why is it necessary to correctly don SCBA and SAR?

SAFETY HARNESS:
A safety harness is a seat belt and sometimes known as a safety belt. Types of Safety
Harness:
Safety harnesses must be worn in all situations where height work is being done and the
possibility of a fall exists.

Thou shall not

fall

1. Guidelines for the use of Safety Harness during

emergency:
a. Release all buckles
b. Hold by Dorsal D-Rink
c. Slide into shoulder straps
d. Attach leg straps
e. Connect the chest buckle
f. Tighten straps and secure connections

NOTE
FIRST AID KIT:
All stevedores should be given practical instructions on the immediate action to be
taken on encountering an accident or other emergency onboard ship and dock side. The
stevedores should be familiar with the contents of the First Aid Kit and their use
The First Aid Kit can be identified by a cross and the inscription “First Aid Kit”.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

SAFETY SIGNS:
It is important you observe and be able to respond appropriately to the following signs.
Table 1: Signs and Interpretation

Sign Interpretation
Danger 1 Fall protection required beyond this point

Danger 2 Body harness required for entry

Danger 3 Safety belts required in this area

Caution 1 Anyone entering tanks must wear body harness

Caution 2 Safety belt required

Caution 3 Anyone working over this area shall wear a safety belt
and a life line at all times

Fall hazard Do not start work unless guardrail, safety net or

personal fall arrest system is in place

Notice Use of safety belts and line required for any work
beyond guarded stairs or platform

Note: Unit 2 will introduce you to different types of Safety Signs

FIRST AID STATION EQUIPMENT
DEFIBRILLATORS:
Equipment used for delivering a therapeutic dose of electrical energy to the affected
heart. It depolarizes a critical mass of the heart muscle, terminates the arrhythmia, and
allows normal sinus rhythm to be re-established by the body.

19
Unit 1 Personnel safety

Types of defibrillators:
a. Automated external defibrillator (AED) - recommended for use by stevedores. AEDs
automate the diagnoses of treatable rhythms, and then advise the user whether a shock
is required

I will give you the

shock of your life

b. Other types of defibrillators are only available at medical facilities and are not
recommended for use by lay responders or bystanders.

Explain the importance and usage of a defibrillator

Additional Equipment and staffing

Qualified nurse
Equipment for taking blood pressure
Eye wash etc.
Other equipment to stabilize injured person prior to transport to medical facility
Equipment

We are the best

friends you could ever
have

Training in the use of the First Aid Kit is recommended to enable stevedores to take
immediate action upon encountering an accident or other medical emergency.

1. What is a First Aid Kit?

2. In your own words describe the contents of a First Aid Kit.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

PROTECTIVE GLOVES:
When working at the seaport the use of correct type of industrial safety gloves and
mittens can reduce the chances of injury to your hands from common industrial hazards.
When selecting a set of gloves it is important that they are the right type for the job

If you love your hands, let

me cover them

BACK BRACE

It supports my back

21
Unit 1 Personnel safety

2. Restricted Areas
Knowledge of “Restricted Areas” is a requirement for any practicing stevedore. The
lack of such knowledge can cause accidents and major upset to the flow of work
onboard ship and dock side.
The Ship Security Plan (SSP) identifies the restricted areas on board ship and specifies
their extent, times of application and security measures to be taken to control access to
them and those to be taken to control activities within them.
Stop for a minute and ask yourself “Why do we make known signs like “Restricted
Areas as is the in the following picture”?

Be careful!!
You can be
hurt!

Here are some reasons for marking

and having “Restricted Areas”
1. To prevent unauthorised access
2. To protect passengers, ship’ personnel and personnel from port facility
or other agencies authorised to be on board the ship
3. To protect security-sensitive area within the ship
4. To protect cargo and ship stores from tampering

Guidelines for using Restricted Areas;

The SSP should ensure that there are clearly established policies and
practices to control access to all restricted areas.
The SSP should clearly identify all restricted areas , indicating that
access to the area is restricted and unauthorised presence within the area
constitutes a breach of security.
Onboard ship
You will find that onboard ships restricted areas may include the
following:
1. Navigation Bridge, spaces containing security and surveillance
equipment and systems and their controls and lighting system
controls.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

2. Engine room, spaces with access to portable water tanks,

pumps or manifolds, ventilation and air condition systems, spaces
containing cargo pumps and their control.
3. Cargo spaces and spaces containing ship’s stores, state room
and galley.
4. Any other areas as determined by Company Security Officer
(CSO), through the Ship Security Assessment (SSA) to which
access must be restricted to maintain the security of the ship
Dockside
You will also find that the dock side as well as certain other areas within
the port facility certain are designated as restricted areas.. The extent,
terms of application, and the security measures to be taken to control
access to them, and those to be taken to control activities within them will
be specified. Each area should have clearly established security measures
to control access by individuals in order to monitor or control the
following:
1. the entry, packing, loading and unloading vehicles
2. movement and storage of cargo and ship’s stores, and
3. unaccompanied baggage or personal effects.
In general, the purpose of the restricted areas is to:
1. Protect passengers, ship’s personnel, port facility personnel
and visitors, including those visiting in connection with that ship.
2. Protect the port facility
3. Protect ships using, and serving the port facility
4. Protect security-sensitive locations and the areas within the
port facility
5. Protect security and surveillance equipment and systems
6. Protect cargo and ship’s stores from tampering
What are Restricted Areas?
For the purposes of stevedoring you will be able to locate the following
restricted areas onboard ship and dock side. A visit to these sites will help
enhance your understanding and feel of restricted areas.
1. Shore and water side areas immediately adjacent to the ship
2. Embarkation and disembarkation areas including gangways,
passenger ship’s personnel holding and processing areas, and
search points
3. Areas where loading, unloading or storage of cargos and stores
is undertaken.
4. Location where security-sensitive information including cargo
documentation is held
5. Areas where dangerous goods and hazardous substances are
held

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Unit 1 Personnel safety

6. Vessel traffic management system control rooms, aids to

navigation and port control buildings, including security and
surveillance control rooms
7. Area where security and surveillance equipment are stored or
located
8. Essential electrical, radio and telecommunication, water and
other utility installations
9. Other locations in the port facility including bunker station
where access by vessels, unauthorised vehicles and individuals
should be restricted
All restricted areas are to be designated “No smoking areas”.

3. Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the major causes of poor performance in many

workplaces. The intellectual capacity of any organization or profession is
negatively affected if fatigue is not seriously considered and managed.
Has there been a time you experienced tiredness, lack of motivation and
exhaustion at work? If you had continued to work under such conditions
what were the results of your work? Were they favourable or
unfavourable?
Let’s take a look at what fatigue is.
Fatigue is a symptom, rather than a specific disease of disorder. It is a
lack of energy and motivation. People who have fatigue feel tired all the
time - in both body and mind. It can be a normal and important response
to physical exertion, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. It can
also be a nonspecific sign of a more serious psychological or physical
disorder. People suffering from fatigue have slow reflexes and reduced
functioning in daily life. Excessive tiredness is also a known risk factor
in motor vehicle and work place accidents.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Causes of fatigue
Fatigue can be caused by a number of factors working in combination.
Following are four common factors that cause fatigue.
1. Undiagnosed medical conditions. If individuals do not ensure that they
undertake regular medical check ups the possibility that they can get ill
due to an undiagonized medical condition is hightened.
2. Unhealthy lifestyle choices. Our own habits if not carefully watched
and controlled could lead to fatigue. Our own choices (unhealthy ones)
are definite causes of fatigue. Can you think of some of these causes?
Let’s take a look at five common lifestyle
Choices that can cause fatigue.
a. Lack of sleep. Adults need eight hours of sleep per
night. Because of work family, social commitment and
other reasons, some people burn the candle at both ends
and try to get by on few hours of sleep. at both ends and
try to get by on few hours of sleep. New parents are
commonly sleep deprived since babies wake often for
food or comfort (see IMO/ILO guidelines)
b. Too much sleep. Adults sleeping more than eleven
hours per day can lead to excessive day time sleepiness
c. Alcohol and drugs. Alcohol is a depressant drug that
slows the nervous system and disturbs normal sleep
patterns. Other drugs such as cigarettes and caffeine
stimulate the nervous system and make insomnia more
likely.
d. Sleep disturbances. This may occur for a number of
reasons. For example noisy neighbours, young children
who wake up at night, the snoring partners or an
uncomfortable sleeping environment such as stuffy
bedroom.
e. Poor diet. Low kilojoules diet, low carbohydrates diet
(or high energy food) that are nutritionally poor do not
provide the body with enough fuel or nutrients to
function at its best. Quick fixed foods such as chocolate
bars or caffeinated drinks only offer a temporary energy
boost that quickly wears off and worsens fatigue.
3. Workplace related issues. There are four common workplace issues
that can cause fatigue. These are:
a. Shift work. The human body is designed to sleep
during the night. Shift work disrupts the body clock
leading to fatigue situations.
b. Poor workplace practices. This adds to a person’s level
of fatigue. For example unnecessary overtime and work
overload leading to less rest which eventually lead to
fatigue.

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Unit 1 Personnel safety

c. Workplace stress. This can be caused by a wide range

of factors including job dissatisfaction, heavy workload,
conflicts with supervisors or colleagues, bullying,
constant change, or threats to job security.
d. Burnout. This can be described as striving too hard in
a one area of life while neglecting everything else.
4. Psychological effects. Studies suggest that psychological factors are
present in at least 50 per cent of fatigue cases (International Maritime
Organization, 2001). They may include:
a. Depression. This is characterised by severe and
prolonged feeling of sadness, dejection and hopelessness
b. Anxiety and Stress. A person who is chronically
anxious or stressed keeps their body in overdrive. The
constant flooding of adrenaline exhausts the body, and
fatigue sets in.
c. Grief. Losing a loved one causes a wide range of
emotions including shock, guilt, depression, despair and
loneliness.

DO NOT GO
TO WORK.
“RELAX”

4. Personnel Safety Management System

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

A number of very serious accidents which occurred during the late 1980s,
were manifestly caused by human errors. Management faults were also
identified as contributing factors. Lord Justice Sheen in his inquiry into
the loss of the vessel (MV Herald of Free Enterprise) described the
safety management system’s failure as “the disease of sloppiness”.
Occupational safety standards are usually implemented by way of
regulation under relevant legislation and regulations and supported by a
code of practice (COP) (refer to Unit Two on Safe Working Practices
Unit below).

Unit summary
In this unit you learned four important areas in relation to personnel
safety for stevedoring in the operations of shipping industry. The areas
include personnel protective equipment, restricted areas, fatigue and
Summary safety management system.

Assessment will be based on the eleven outcomes stated at the beginning

of this unit. Each section of the unit will be assessed on a continuous
basis. The essence of the exercises and activities is to demonstrate the
level of competence achieved.

Assignment
Assessment will be done on the job environment using a combination of :
Written and/or oral assignment
Practical work and Observation

Assignment

1. State three (3) reasons for wearing protective eyewear

2. Explain the uses of the following protective eyewear
a. Perspex safety glasses
b. Goggles
c. Prescription protective eyewear

3. Explain two (2) guiding principles in establishing restricted areas in a

Ship Security Plan
4. Describe any three (3) signs of fatigue
5. Identify the various parts of safety harness and demonstrate the proper
usage

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Unit 1 Personnel safety

All questions for assignment should be attempted and cheched before any
final assessment is conducted

Assessment
In this unit, knowledge shall be assessed while work is being done under
direct supervision with regular checks. Assessment also acknowledges
your autonomy (independence) as a learner. Assessment shall be
Assessment conducted at various stages of the job application in accordance with the
learning outcomes, or shall be at the completion of each process.

Assessment will be undertaken off the job however the off the job
environment will stimulate a real workplace situation using a
combination of :
1. Written examination
2. Practical examination
3. Observation and oral assessment
As a distance learner you are required to attempt all questions at the end
of this unit. Each section of the unit contains a set of questions which can
be attempted and checked by you.
An accredited assessor is strongly recommended to conduct the
assessment where appropriate.
1. Demonstrate appropriate donning of a safety vest
2. Demonstrate the correct procedure for wearing and using hard hats
3. Explain each of the following symbols used to differentiate steel toe
boots (use a table)
a. 1, 2 or O
b. P or O
c. M or O
d. E, S or C
e. X or O
4. List the four (4) types of ear plugs and explain the uses of each
5. What is the purpose of ear muffs in stevedoring?
6. State the purpose of restricted areas onboard ship and on dock side
7. Explain five (5) common causes of fatigue
8. Explain the purpose of safety harness as used in stevedoring

28
Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

29
 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Unit 2

Carrying Out Occupational Health

and Safety Procedures
Introduction
In the previous unit, you learnt about personnel safety for stevedores
invloved in cargo handling activities. In this unit you will learn how to
carry out occupational health and safety procedures in connection with
safe working practices onboard, ashore and on equipment that are used
for the cargo handling activies at large.
“Every day in the world (on average) a seafarer or a dock worker is
killed on the job” – Eddie Seymour, MUOA - 1993
It is important that all persons involved in stevedoring possess adequate
training and safety knowledge and have a high degree of safety awareness
so that they are able to:
- recognize the importance of safety and assign sufficient resources to
handle it.
- give proper consideration to safety during planning and design stages to
eliminate/reduce safety problems during later stages of the process.
- take into account potential safety problems during preparation / vetting
of method statements.
a. avoid performing unsafe acts.
b. avoid creating unsafe conditions.
c. identify unsafe acts/conditions and ask for rectification.
Each port needs to develop working practices that will protect the safety
and health of stevedores such as those set out on International Labour
Organization (ILO) Conventions and recommendation and other codes of
practice and guidelines.
In this section you will explore safety aspects of handling cargo onboard,
ashore, safe operation of cargo handling equipment such as ship to shore
cranes, ships derrecks, tractor trailers, straddle carriers and other
equipment; including safe use of cargo gears / tools / devices for the
effective and efficient cargo handling activities.

Upon completion of this unit you will be able to:

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

 demonstrate knowledge of company's safety policies and procedures.

 demonstrate knowledge of occupational health and safety regulation.
 describe responsibilities and functions of employees in carrying out
Outcomes day to day duties in a safe manner.
 demonstrate safe practices in the use of equipment, tools and devices.
 demonstrate the importance of identifying and following safety signs
and symbols.
 state guidelines for contacting appropriate personnel and emergency
services.
 describe evacuation procedures in case of emergencies..
 demonstrate knowledge of workplace safety requirements.
 demonstrate knowledge of dangerous goods as a cargo handler.
 describe care and handling of cargo lifting equipment and safe slinging
of loads.
 demonstrate knowledge of the tasks, terminology, jargon and signals
used in port cargo operations.
 demonstrate knowledge of safely attaching loads of cargo under
supervision.

Abaft: A word used by seaferers, meaning nearer the

stern. eg;' The cargo slings are abaft no.3 hatch'.

Abeam: In a line at right angles to the vessel's length.

Terminology Opossite the centre of the vessel's side.

Aboard: In or upon the vessel

Abreast: Side by side

Aft: Short for abaft

After: Towards the stern of the vessel Opposite of 'fore'

Aloft: Overhead

Amidships: Means half way between the stem(forward or front

of the ship) and the stern of the ship

Apron: Means an area on the quay, ajcacent to the ship,

that is used for working cargo. Where there is no
shed this area may also be used for piling or

32
 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

stacking cargo temporarily.

Astern: The rear or back of a vessel. This is the after part

of a vessel

Athwart ship: Means across the ship, opposite to fore and aft

Ballast: Weighty material (usually water) carried to ensure

the stability of the ship.

Berth: A place where ship is anchored or accomodated

alongside the dock

Tween decks : Usually the space between the upper and lower
deck of a vessel. below

Bollard: Short firmly anchored post on quay to which the

moorling lines of a vessel is secured.

Boatswain: Also known as Bosun. A petty officer on vessel

incharge of rigging. A leader of the crew

Bow: The fore end of the ship

First lift: The act of commenencing to discharge a ships

cargo. Where deck cargoes are carried first lift is
counted from the time the first set of cargo is lifted
off the deck

Broadside: The whole side of the vessel

Boatside On: Opposite to end on

Broken Stowage: Cargo carrying capacity lost when packages of

cargo stored in a ship's hold are irregular in size
which causes gaps to occur between them. Even
when packages are regular in size obstructions in
the hold, such as pillars, will still cause gaps in
stowage causing loss of space.

Bulk Cargo: A term used to describe cargo carried in bulk, not

packaged in separate units. Coal, suger, oil and
ores are example of bulk cargoes

Bulkhead: A compartment separation or steel wall in a ship

Coamings: Built of steel plates around the ship hatch ways.

The purpose is to provide protection against water
entering the hold from surrounding decks. It also
prevent the workers from falling into the holds

Dangerous Cargo / Cargo which based on its nature requires special

Hazardous Cargo: handling and stowage precautions. .

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Deck Cargo: Cargo loaded or stowed on deck

Derrick: A steel boom connected to a crane on the lower

end of the deck or on a platform above the deck
level used in the loading and/ or discharge of
cargo to or from the ship

Dunnage: Pieces of wood used onboard to securely load

cargo or protect cargo from damages

Gangway: The access point to and from a ship; thus

'gangway ladder' normally secured with a net to
prevent people from falling overboard.

Gear: Rigging or any kind.

Hold: The space below deck in a ship, in which the cargo

is stored

Hull: The watertight body of the vessel

Jib: The arm of the cranes that carry the load; it can be
swung round or "slewed" to pickup or land its
load.

Lasher: Stevedore who secures and unsecure containers

onboard ship in the discharge and loading
operation

Lo - Lo: Lift on and Lift off

Man- handle: To move by manual force, without tackles

Mobile crane: A 'runabout' crane used on quays and in sheds for

cargo handling. The safety of a mobile crane
depends directly on the safe working load (SWL)
being adhered to, weight being lifted and the
angle of the jib at the time of lifting

Outreach: The distance a crane can plumb from the body of

the crane so has to reach the cargo in the hold of
the ships or on the quay for the purpose of lifting
them.

Outturn: The amount of cargo discharged from a ship. A

hourly, daily, or total figure.

Overstowed: Goods in a hold destined for a port of discharge,

but blocked in by other goods to be unloaded at the
later port of discharge. To unload the goods
overstowed it will be necessary to incur the
expenses of removing the goods that are blocking

34
 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

them

Pratiique: The permit for a vessel to communicate

(commence loading/discharging operations) with
the land after a clean bill of health has been issued
, or quarrantine restriction have been lifted

Quay: Part of the dock nearest to the water and situated

between the ship and shed or stacking area,. it is
the working area for cargo from the ship to shed
or stacking area and vice - versa

Rat Guards: These usually take the form of large tin discs that
fit titles around the ships mooring ropes,inorder to
prevent rats climbing down to reach the shore.

Ro- Ro: Roll on and Roll off.

Running Gear: Applies to all moving gear used in cargo work, i.e;
topping lift wires, span chains, guys,blocks and
cargo runners etc.

Safe Working Load: All gear, including derricks on ships has a

manufacturer designated safe working load limit.
Lifting equipment must be tested periodically for
suitability for lifting its working load. This given
limit, measured in tons, is painted in a location on
the equipement where it can be easily seen..

Spreader: A rectangular lifting gear with four corners fitted

with twist locks to lift containers.

Stevedore: Is an employee invloved in loading and off loading

of cargo to and from ships.

Stowage: A term denoting or identifying the position of

individual pieces of cargo stowed on a ship.

Signalman: The signalman is responsible to give signals to the

crane operator for lifting, swinging and lowering
loads.

Turnround of a ship: The period of time that aship spends in port

Winch: A piece of machinery affixed to the vessel deck

used for topping of derricks, hoisting and lowering
of slings of cargo.

35
Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

1. Procedures and policies relating to workplace safety

Dealing with emergencies;

An emergency is a crisis in which any of the following are threatening;

1. Safety of Life
2. Integrity of property
Note it!
3. Degradation of the environment

It is the responsibility of each stevedore to be familar with the different

levels of alerts and eveacuation procedures as it relates to their particular
terminal disaster preparedness procedures.
To assist with the orderly prepration during a hurricane, typhoon, cyclone
or other severe weather condtions the stevedore should be aware of
thevarious levels of alert and what is required at each level.
Based on the location of the port the threatening weather conditions may
be different but all ports should have various disaster preparedness plans
in placewhich outlines varying levels of danger along with the actions to
be taken.
For example in most ports, there are three (3) main levels of alerts posted
at the port entrance which are as follows;
1. Condtion Green - between cyclone seasons , 'routine readiness'
(November to April in some countries).
2. Condition Yellow - indicate intensifying risk of a cyclone, or
associated weather storm. Specific action laid down must be taken to
minimise the likely consequences and all safety precautions should be
completed.
3. Condition Red - will be decleared when a cyclone strike is imminent or
the onset of extreme, peripheral weather conditions associated with a high
intensity cyclone. This alert signals immidiate evacuation of the port.
Possible Types of emergencies in a port;
1. Medical Emergency
2. Bomb threat/suspicious objects
3. Fire/ explosions
4. Human fatality/ serious injury/serious assualt/sexual assualt
5. Vessel collision/ capsizing/ sinking/ grounding/ shipwreck
6. Marine pollution of waters
7. Hostage/seige/ kidnap
8. Motor vehicle accident
9. Impact by equipment/ machinery

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

10. Toxic fumes/ spills/ leak/ contamination by hazardous materials

11. Outbreak of diseases (quarantine)
12. Natural disasters- cyclones, huriccanes, flooding, tsunamis (tidal
waves), earth quakes etc.
Use of personal protective equipment;
Comply with rules regarding the use of personal protactive equipment
such as helmets, protective shoes, harness, reflective safety vest, goggles,
etc.

Stevedores at work.
Identify all persons in breach
of the safety code (safety
helmet, vests & safety boots)

Correct lifting and handling techniques;

Many accidents in cargo handling are caused by incorrect manual lifting.
The back bone was not made to lift, but to support the head. The most
important thing to remember when lifting heavy objects is that the main
lifting strain should be taken by the upper leg muscles and not the back.
Seven steps to safe lifting- base movement
1. Assess the load - can you lift it safely?
2. Place your feet at 'ten-to-two'
3. Bend your knees
4. Back-keep it straight and upright
5. Neck and head-keep your chin up
6. Grip-'front knee, high hand for corner' and 'back knee, low hand, near
corner'
7. Load hold it in close to your waist

37
Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Always remember!
Practicing good lifting techniques does not enable you to lift more than
you could before. It means that, what ever your individual capabilities,
Note it! your chances of injury are reduced.

Safety education and training;

Effective training is a key component of any health and safety
programme.
Workers often experience work-related health problems and do not
realise that the problems are related to their work, particularly when an
occupational disease, eg; is in the early stages.
Besides the other more obvious benefits of training, such as skills
development, hazard recognition etc, a comprehensive training program
in each workplace will help to;
1. recognize early signs/symptoms of any potential occupational disease
before they become permanant conditions.
2. Assess their work environment.
3. Insist that management make changes before hazardous condition can
develop.

2. Potential hazards
Fire;
Before attempting to extinguish a fire you should ensure that the alarm is
raised. A delay of few seconds may mean the difference between a minor
and major fire.
When there is an alarm you give the fire team time to prepare while you
are using an extingusiher.
A good way to remmeber what FIRE means are as follows;
F - IND - upon discovery move to an area of immediate safety.
I - NFORM - Raise the alarm.
R - ESTRICT - confine the fire to the area of origin, closing doors,
hatches etc.
E - XTINGUISH - when and if safe to do so.
How does a fire work?
For a fire to occur it needs three elements; heat , fuel and oxygen -
illustrated by the fire triangle.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

FIRE TRIANGLE

If one of these elements is absent then a fire cannot occur. It is therefore

important to ensure that they are kept separated.
HEAT - heat sources can be many and varied, but as long as there is
sufficient heat to create ignition then the potential is present for a fire to
occur.
FUEL - in relation to fires, fuel is anything of a combustible nature. So
while many people tend to see fuel as substances such as petrol, diesel
etc. Items such as wood, clothing, plastics and papers etc. are sources of
fuel to a fire.
However, only gases and vapours burn. With solids and liquids it is
necessary to change their state, most likely by raising the temperature, so
that they produce flammable vapours.
OXYGEN - is normally produced in air at a ratio of approximately 21
percent by volume.
This is sufficient to support the process of combustion. We are limited as
to the extent that we can control the amount of oxygen present.
It is important that we concentrate on keeping the fuel and heat sources
separated.
CHEMICAL REACTION - in addition, to having the three sides of the
fire traingle present there is also a requirement for a chemical reaction,
known as oxidation, to occur.
This reaction may be likened to the corners of the triangle as it holds the
sides together.
Additionally, this oxidising process will consume the oxygen in a
confined space and replace it with toxic gases.
Fire Extinguishing Principles;
A fire can be extinguished by removing one or more elements of the fire
triangle. This may be achieved by one or more of the following methods.
1. Cooling - This will remove the heat from fire. Water, having a high
capacity to absorb the heat, is very effective when extinguishing a fire by
this method.
2. Smothering - This will remove oxygen from the fire. There are two
ways of acheiving this;

39
Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

a. Seal the surface of a flammable liquid to prevent the vapours

from escaping and mixing with surrounding air. This can be acheived
with the aid of a fire blanket or a layer of foam.
b. Lower the oxygen concentration to a level that is in sufficient
to support combustion. This may be acheived by sealing compartments or
may invlove using carbon dioxide.
3. Starvation - This method removes fuel from the fire. This course of
action may be used to exinguish a fire resulting from a broken fuel line.
By isolating the fuel with a control valve the fuel will be removed from
the fire.
4. Disrupting the chemical reaction - by disturbing the chemical reaction
you seperate the sides of the triangle. This then allows you to extinguish
the fire. Dry chemical powder achieves its effectiveness by acting upon a
fire in this manner.

Classification of fires;
To assist in selecting the correct extinguishing agent fires are classified
into groups according to the nature of the material that is burning;
Class A - Carbonaceous solids, eg; wood, paper, carpet, plastic and
rubber.
Class B - Flammable liquids, eg; petrol, diesel, thinners and methylated
spirits.
Class C - Flammable gases, eg; LPG, acetylene and methane.
Class D - Combustible metals, eg; magnesium, alluminium and sodium.
Class (E) - Fires involving live electrical equipment. This is not a class of
fire on its own, but a sub-class. This is becuase electricity is not the
material that is burning but may be the ignition source.
A fire involving insulated wiring is a class A fire with the presence of
electricity. Where possible the electricty should be isolated and the fire
fought as a normal A class fire. If this is not possible then apply a non-
conductive extinguishing agent.
Class F - Cooking oil fires. These are separated from other flammable
liquid fires due to the potential fire ball that can occur if water is used as
extinguishing agent.
Extinguisher type Colour Class of Fire

Water Plain red A

Foam Red / Blue band (plain blue) A, B, F
Dry Chemical
powder Red / White band A, B, E, F
Carbon dioxide Red / Black band B, F, E

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

3. Occupational, Health and Safety Requirements

Occupational health and safety (OHS) encompasses the social, mental and
physical well being of workers, that is the 'whole person'.
Note it!

Occupational health and safety is more than accident prevention. It

includes all aspects of working condtions.
'A healthy work place is a safe work place'. The opposite may not be true.
Health and safety issues must be addressed.
Work related accidents or diseases are very costly for workers and their
families.
Some direct costs to workers are;
1. The pain and suffering of the injury or illness
2. The loss of income

41
Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

3. The possible loss of a job

4. Health care costs
An effective occupational health and safety programme covers the
following;
1. safe worksite environment and working condition
2. proper use of tools and equipment
3. safe handling of materials
4. safety of other personnel

4. Employee safety responsibilities

Worker should not remove , alter, displace or interfere with any safety
device provided for their protection, or the protection of others, or
interfere with a method or practice which has been adopted to avoid
accident or injury.
Worker should report any defective equipment or any hazardous situation
to a responsible person.
Workers should work in pairs so that they can support each other in the
handling of equipment as well as to ensure that at all times someone is
aware of the location an wellbeing of all stevedores working.

Employee should co-operate with supervisor to comply with the safe

working practices for prevention of accident or bodily injuries to himself
or others.
Employees day to day safety functions includes;
1. safe use of Personal Protective Equipment(PPE)
2. safe interactive work practices (duty of care)
3. following OHS rules and regulations
4. observing safety warnings and signs

5. Safety signs, signals and symbols

Safety signs play a practical role in preventing injury and ensuring staff
are aware of the dangers and hazards awaiting them at a given point in
the work place.
Without safety signs many employees would lack essential direction in
times of crisis.
Without safety signs employees face a minefield of danger.
Safety Signals;
In order to facilitate the task of the crane operator some safety signals are
depicted below for easy understanding and safe operation.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

LOWER: With arm extended

downward forefinger pointing
down, move hand in Small
horizontal circles

ALL CLEAR: Arm extended

over hard hat, palm down,
move hand in a forward to
backward motion, repeat- 2-3
times.

UP EASY: With arm vertical,

repeatedly open and close the fingers
and thumb touching finger tips and
thumb tips when closed

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

HOIST: With arm vertical, forefinger

pointing up, move hand in small
horizontal circles.

STOP: Right arm across chest, then

fully extended with palm down.

DOWN EASY: With arm extended

downward, forefinger pointing down
move hand in small slow horizontal
circles. Place opposite hand palm up
motionless under hand giving motion
signal

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

MOVE SPREADER / HOOK IN

THE DIRECTION INDICATED

GANTRY CRANE RIGHT / LEFT:

Rolls hand over the other in the desired
direction of travel

Safety Signs;
Some common safety signs that are found in ports.
Permission – green squares

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Prohibition – red circle

Mandatory – blue circle

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Fire information – red square

First aid / Safety equipment

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Safety equipment information- green square

General safety information – blue square

Caution – yellow and black triangle

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Danger – red triangle

6. Workplace hazards

It is important that;
1. Workplace hazards are controlled-AT THE SOURCE, wherever
possible.
Note it! 2. Records of any exposure are mainatained for many years.
3. Both worker and employers are informed about health and safety risks
in the work place.
4. There is an active and effective health and safety committee that
includes both workers and management.
5. Workers health and safety efforts are ongoing.

Common health hazards include;

1. Dust
2. Gases
3. Noise
4. Vibration
5. Extreme temperatures
Potential work place hazards;

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

1. overhead services e.g. telephone, power cables

2. underground services. e.g. gas, water, pipe lines
3. Identifies a range of hazards that occur in all areas of stevedoring
relating to working safely with cargo handling activities
4. environmental influences e.g.lighting, noise, wind, temperatures etc.
5. uneven or unstable ground
6. buildings and structures
7. other personnel

Relating to safety and injuries;

Before persons are permitted to work in a ship’s hold or other cargo space
which had been previously fumigated, a qualified person should certify
that the hold or space is safe to enter.
Before persons are allowed to enter into any enclosed spaces, tank, etc.,
in which fermentation of organic material or rusting may have resulted in
a deficiency of oxygen or presence of toxic gases, such space should be
tested by suitable means,such as gas detector, to check whether the
atmosphere is safe.
Where stevedores are exposed to dangerous or irritating concentrations.of
dust, fumes etc., suitable respiratory protective equipment and eye shields
should be provided and worn.

Oops!!!! You are in the wrong place. You

could be squashed while standing between
containers during operation.

Unsafe practice

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

7. General safety rules

Read and observe all safety signs and posters.
When a job or shift is completed, ensure that all gears/tools are stored in
the proper place. Always leave your work area clean and free from
debris.
All entrances, exits, aisles, road and access ways must be kept clear at all
times.
All visitors must remain in the areas designated.
Vehicles that are not involved in port operations should not be found in
the working area at any time.
All rules for working onboard ships and docks must be observed at all
times.
All holds on vessels and interior of containers or any enclosed area must
be checked prior to undertaking any handling operation.
All equipment for fire fighting and rescue from water must be functional
and in place.
Signs must be erected where there are;
1. Open holes or excavation and cordoned off
2. Men working overhead or below
3. Loads suspended or passing overhead
4. Toxic or harmful substances being handled or stored
Warning lights must be utilized at night if lighting is not otherwise
sufficient.
No one is to enter a restricted area unless so authorized by a supervisor.
Contractor personnel are required to conform to all Safety Rules and
Regulations.
All cargo must be properly stored or stacked ensuring that it will not fall
causing damage and injury to persons.
All flammable or toxic material must be stored in appropriate places
bearing in mind: each one's reaction to others, heat, types of containers
etc and as per IMDG Code.
Proper safety clothing and equipment must be used when handling toxic
materials.

I am your cargo gears.

Please keep me organized
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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Mixed twist-locks is a source of

danger – unsafe working practice

Automatic twist lock -

Please, properly maintain
me for your own safety
maintemance ship
responsiblity

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Unsafe lashing gears, a source of potential

danger hazards for the workers and the vessel
why unsafe?

I should have been

removed before you start
operation. I can fall on
your head.

8. Safety Procedures for Ship and Port Equipment

Shipboard crane operations;
Ship Crane as the name implies are affixed to vessels. Shore Cranes on
the other hand are operated from the dock.
Safety procedures must be followed while operating the shipboard
equipment.

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Upon confirmation of fitness certificate by the supervisor the crane

operator on entering the cab check all safety features.
Upon concluding the checks any abnormality or defects should be
reported to supervisor.
Normal checks would include; S.W.L , brake systems, swinging motions,
lowering and hoisting of cables, emergency close down switch and
visibilty.
Discharging and loading principles, same as Winch Operators.
Be familiar with all stevedoring operations and be capable of rigging
derricks and other deck gear for the proper hoisting or moving of cargo.
Before commencing to hoist cargo, in conjunction with the Foreman or
Ship's Officer in charge, ensure that the derrick topping lifts and derrick
guides are properly secured.
Ensure that the space from the hatch coamings to the vessel's side is clear
for working cargo and that the hatch beams, strong backs, fore and aft
and hatch covers are stowed on deck or apron in a safe, orderly manner.
Inspect generally, as far as possible, all running gears for any defect or
unsafe working condition.

Where is the gangway?

How am I going
onboard? Come on Mr.
foreman, look for my
safety first

Ensure that the cargo is properly slung before being hoisted, and shall
control the movements of sling loads by positive signals to the winch
drivers / crane operators when the load is out of sight.
Keep the sling load in sight and working area cleared of people.
Be familiar with the location of the First Aid Room.
Ship to shore gantry crane operating procedures;
The operator should use stairs or lift to enter his cab, which is built on the
main frame of the cranes structure, unless other new accommodations are
affixed or in case of damage to said stair rails, or in the case of
emergencies.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

On entering the cab the crane operator check his seating, visibility,
Gantry movements, hoisting/lowering, trolley movements, light controls,
braking system, spreader movement, twist lock probes, warning bell.
The Gantry Crane Operator on completing his safety checks as
recommended by manufacturers will place onboard lashers that
performing height duties, ie; working on containers stacked two high
upwards.
Holders(lashers) unlock bridge fittings and twist locks/stack cones, crane
operator then attach spreader into container sockets. Height holders
ensure that twist locks or any other device are placed in cage or cargo
baskets etc.
Ship holders or lashers proceed to remove lash bars/ change by method of
twisting and rolling bars out of container sockets of the lower tiers.
The turn buckle is opened and lowered into the deck. By simultaneous
removal of bar/buckle, prevention is taken that the bar does not fall or
buckle is not dropped, resulting in damage or injury to either personnel or
equipment.
Crane operator should not lift a container above the heads of the
holders/lashers working below.
When removing a container from the vessel the Shore Gantry Crane
Operator should be in radio contact, which will enable him take
instructions for safe delivery of said container on to the dock or to the
trailer.
When not being in radio contact, he must follow signals from the
signalman.
On landing the probes of the spreader into the corner castings of the
container, the Gantry Crane Operator will see the "on container light" lit
up in his cab. He will then engage the twist locks to turn the probes and
lock securely onto the container The over-ride feature will only be
activated on instructions from the Engineering Department if the operator
encounters a problem.
The gantry crane operator then slowly lifts the container to clear the twist
locks on which it rests as there may be instances where twist locks are not
properly opened. After clearing the twist locks the gantry crane operator
increases the speed of the lifting and trolleying action smoothly ensuring
that there is no swinging, jerking, or surging of the containers during
these motions.
On clearing the vessel the Gantry Crane Operator brings the container
between the legs of the shore crane and lowers his runner cables, and
place the container either into a chassis/apron/back reach safely.
The dock and deck signalmmen plays an important part in the entire
operation.
The reverse of these procedures will be applicable when loading of vessel
takes place, excepting of course the removal of bridge fitting" lash bars,
turn buckles etc.

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

These lashing devices would now be applied and locked after the
container has been landed on the respective decks of the vessel on
instructions from the supervisor who ensures that each container is
properly secured to the vessel.
The Crane Operator should always ensure that all four twist locks are
properly secured before lifting either containers or hatch covers from the
vessel or from the dock. Critical to this is ensuring that all initial lifting
action is done slowly and gently.

Broken king pin – unsafe to carry loads, please

fix me, don’t abuse me

Mobile Shore crane operations;

Before starting operations all safety features of shore crane equipment
suchs as Crawler, Rubber wheels, Slew Crane Operators etc, must be
checked and in good working condition.
Positioning of cranes at bays, hatches, openings of ship's hold must be
precisely done to prevent unnecessary movement of said crane with
cargo.
The Crane Operator must obey all signals from his signalman.
Discharging and loading principles, same as Winch Operator.

9. Safety procedures for shoreside support or back up equipment

These include tow trucks, forklifts, Karri-lifts, straddle carriers, reach
stackers, tractor trailors, chassis flatbeds and trailer trains.
Make yourself familiar with construction and safe operating procedures.
When getting in or out of machine be cautious and careful.
When leaving a cab in a designated parking area always remember to
switch on the parking brakes.
Don't let outsiders handle the equipment entrusted to you. It is the
responsibility of the operator to take care that the equipment does not
cause damage to people or property.
Always wear the mandated safety gear and follow the documented safety
requirements.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Keep the equipment clean, particularly the controls and regulating

devices.
Before starting, look to front and rear to make sure no one is in your way.
Avoid abrupt stopping and starting.
Stop the engine whenever you leave the equipment even for a short
moment. If the equipment is laden, let the load down.
Ensure that machine is not operated in poorly lit area or areas without
light.
Always observe safe distance from vehicles driving infront. Never drive
side by side other vehicles.

Did you check

your safety
procedures before
operating the
crane??
Pay attention to signs indicating maximum height of your equipment
before entering places where the headroom is limited.
Obey all traffic rules, signs and safety of other people.
Before selecting opposite direction of travel, bring the carrier to a
complete halt.
Straddle carriers should always be driven with the cab in front (“cab
forward”) over extended or long distances.
Report all collisions and resulting damage in detail. This might prevent
similar accident in future.
Remember that equipment is not intended for carrying passengers.
Do not use a bare flame to examine fuel tank or battery levels.
Know the capacity of the equipment, the total weight, if carrying a load.
Beware of driveway edges causing danger of sliding or failing.
In puzzling situations remember to keep calm. Think twice or ask for
clarification before you act.

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Tow trucks must be properly aligned and wheels/tyres must be threaded

and inflated to their prescribed weight, brake systems must be working.
Horns should be working as well.
Tractor/Trailers must be serviced for engine oil, gas oil, water tyre
pressures, hydraulic fluids etc.
View mirrors must be in place, and adjusted properly by operator prior
operation or driving, reflecting lights must be working, especially for
night operations. Braking system must be checked before reporting to
prescribed operations.
All Chassis/Flatbeds should be fitted with either rail guards or twist locks
to prevent container from sliding.
Fork lifts should be tested every six (6) months by a competent authority
and a certificate fitness issued.
Fork Lifts should be fitted with a sturdy overhead canopy of sufficient
strength to protect the operator from object failing from above.
Fork lifts should be fitted with fire extinguishers and should be checked
periodically.
Fork Lifts should be clearly marked with safe working load as determined
by the tests.
Any trapping points between fork arm mechanism and other moving parts
should be suitably guarded.
The tyre pressure should be clearly marked on the chassis of the vehicles
and check daily.
All fork lifts operators should undergo medical tests periodically.
Before the operator begins to use his vehicle he should satisfy himself
that it is in a safe working condition.
Operators obviously under influence of drugs or alchohols should not be
allowed to operate the equipment. Smoking must not be allowed inside
the vehicle at any time.
When the load obscures the forward vision of the operator, he should
drive the vehicle in reverse.
No person should be allowed to pass or stand under elevated load or forks
of the vehicle.
It is advisable that no operator works for more than sixteen (16) hours per
day with adequate rest periods in between.

10. Accident Reporting

A clearly documented Accident Reporting Procedure outlining the
process and the chain of reporting should be available
All accidents, however minor, whether or not there is visible injury to the
person, must be reported immidiately to the supervisor.
Supervisor will make arrangements for medical treatment.
Supervisor completes Accident Report Forms.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Supervisor submits accident report forms to port management as

prescribed in Accident Procedures All accidents must be investigated
thoroughly for;
1. Compilation of Data / Statistics
2. Examinations and identification of the causative factors
3. Implementing corrective and preventive measures
4. Assessment of damage or loss
An accident investigation team must be appointed with competent
personnel.

STOP!!!!
Use the
gangway

If an accident takes place on board a vessel, it must be immediately

reported to vessel command and a report obtained from the Captain or
the Chief Officer prior to sailing of the vessel.
The manager or supervisor in charge of operations on that vessel or the
Investigating team should visit the scene and begin investigations
immediately. A report should be prepared and submitted within 24 hours.
Pictures of the accident site must be taken showing the relevant issues
and items which contributed or caused the accident. If possible the
accident site and all evidence must be preserved for further examination.

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

11. Handling of Dangerous Goods

Special care must be taken in the handling of dangerous goods, giving
due consideration to the type of packing, the nature of the goods and the
hazards associated with them.
Workers should familiarize themselves with the internationally agreed
labelling scheme for dangerous goods so as to be able to recognize the
hazards associated with dangerous goods of various types.
The port should have in place a team of personnel with the necessary
training and equipment to respond appropriate to spillages which occur
during operations. For classes of IMDG out of the scope of the port’s
hazardous materials (hazmat) team response capabilities the necessary
alliances with organizations with this capability should be forged and in
place
In the event of spillage or damage to a package of dangerous goods, the
officer in charge of the vessel and the terminal manager in charge of
operations of the vessel must immediately be informed.

Dangerous goods container

should not be stowed on top of
regular cargo. Not necessarily
true but based on class

Unusual smells or any effect of dizziness or illness suffered by any

person should immediately be reported to the manager in charge of
operations and the vessel officer in charge.
If spillage occurs or a package or receptacle is sufficiently damaged or
defective that leakage or spillage of the dangerous goods is likely, the
person in charge should cease cargo operation in the vicinity and all
persons leave the immediate area, until further advised.

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Anyone exposed should be immediately taken to the first aid station for
assessment and further action if necessary

No one should smoke, carry naked light or equipment to make fire at

dangerous goods store and when handling dangerous goods.
International Maritime Dangerous Goods(IMDG) Code;
The objective of the IMDG Code is to;
1. Enhance the safe transport of dangerous goods
2. Protect the marine environment
3. Facilitate the free unrestricted movement of dangerous goods
The international Maritime Organisation(IMO) has devloped two
international convention to address these issues.
1. The SOLAS Convention(covering safety of life at sea)
2. The MARPOL Convention(covering pollution prevention)
To supplement the principles laid down in the SOLAS and MARPOL
Coventions, the IMO developed the International Maritime Dangerous
Goods Code (IMDG)
IMDG Code contains detailed techincal specification to enable dangerous
goods to be transported safely by sea.
The IMDG Code is based on an internationally agreed system which;
1. Group dangerous goods together based on the hazards they present in
transport(classified into 9 hazard classes).
2. Prescribe the appropriate packaging and handling requirements in
terms of containers, tanks and other packaging materials stipulating the
appropriate strength needed to prevent the goods from escaping.
3. Using hazards warning labels and other identifying marks to identify
dangerous good in transport.
4. Lays down principles for ensuring that dangerous goods which will
react dangerously together are kept apart.
5. Lays down principles for where to place dangerous goods onboard ship
to ensure safe transport.
6. Provides emergency response advice for dangerous goods invloved in a
fire or spillage onboard ship.

It is important that;
The IMDG Code classifies dangerous goods into 9 hazard classes;
Class 1 - Explosives
Note it!
Class 2 - Gases
Class 3 - Flamable liquids
Class 4 - Flammable solids
Class 5 - Oxidising substances and organic peroxides

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Class 6 - Toxic and infectious substances

Class 7 - Radioactive material
Class 8 - Corrosive substances
Class 9 - Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles

Hazard Communication by
Label
Color, Symbol, Number

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Unit summary
In this unit you learned the occupational health and safety procedures that
must be followed during stevedore operations. You have understood that
occupational health and safety is more than accident prevention. It
Summary includes all working conditions relating to;
- the importance of procedures and policies relating to work place safety
- potential hazards
- occupational, health and safety requirements
- employee safety responsibilities
- safety signs, symbols and signals
- general safety rules
- safety procedures for ship and port equipment
- understanding of IMDG Code (dangerous goods) as a cargo handler
- accident reporting

' A HEALTHY WORK PLACE IS A SAFE WORK PLACE'

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Assignment
1. Explain the importance of company's safety policies and procedures?
2. Explain two implications of not following the helath and safety
procedures?
3. As a stevedore, name two main tools or devices with which you are
Assignment familiar and explain how you use them safely in your day to day work.
4. Assume you are a stevedore supervisor and you have a new employee,
name two main tools or equipment or devices that he/she is expected to
use and explain two incorrect safety procedures and consequences
5. a. Select any three safety signs listed below and explain the
importance and use of each sign.

b. Explain the consequences of not following each sign selected.

6. Scenario - You are at the port on duty, half an hour away from lunch
break, suddenly, the emergency alarm goes off, the supervisor shouts
'bomb threat'. In panic, some stevedores run on to the ship, some jumped
overboard.
a. Explain the important safety steps in responding to this situation?
7. Scenario - You are onboard of a vessel, as a lasher (stevedore). The
ship to shore crane operator, while attempting to lift a container with
IMDG class 7 (radio active) contents when, accidentally, one of the twist
locks broke loose from the spreader and the container fell into bay no.7
and broke open and created a major safety and health hazard.
Explain the safety steps taken in dealing with this situation?
8. How many IMDG hazard classes are there and name any three?

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Unit 2 Carrying Out Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

Assessment
1. (a) Describe how you would carry out three main functions of your day
to day duties safely?
(b) Explain the consequences of not following the established
Assessment
procedures?
2. Scenario - You are in the port working next to the cargo shed,
suddenly, you heard an explosion which is followed by a massive blaze
and heavy black smokes coming from the entire shed.
The fire is spreading rapidly, and you are the closest stevedore to the
scene of fire.
a. Explain what immediate steps you would take?
b. Explain three important steps for the correct use of a fire extingusiher?
3. Scenario - You are an appointed stevedore foreman and a new
employee just arrived for duty.
Describe the safety procedures you need to follow in working as;
a. Shore crane operator
b. Ship's derrick operator
c. Forklift operator
d. Tracktor trailor operator
e. Lasher
f. Signalman
4. You are assigned to strip (destuff) a container with dangerous goods
placards affixed with class 6 (skull and bone)-toxic and with class 8
(Spilling acid)-corrosive.
Explain the safety steps you would follow in destuffing the container?

5. Based on the sketch showing hand signals, select any three of the hand
signals and explain?

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

If this unit is delivered face to face the following group activities can be
used
6. Group Activity - As a group, one of the stevedore will act as a
signalman and demonstarte three main hand signal given to the crane
operator in lifting a container.
7. Group Activity - You are given different types of gears such as twist
locks,hooks and slings. You are required to explain the safe use of each
of these in lifting loads?

Assessment Methods
The candidate will be required to;
Answer questions put by the assessors - Oral Assessment
Written tests / case studies / projects and required to answer the questions
posed by the examiner.
Present evidence of credit for any off-job training related to this unit
Written statements from persons (e.g. current and/or previous employer,
colleague, peer, manager, external customers) confirming competence of
the learner

References, Web Resources and

Resource Files
Links to Useful Resources:

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

http://www.ilo.org/public/english/standards/relm/gb/docs/gb271/prs-
2.htm
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/policy/army/fm/55-
17/index.html
http://www.mo-
marine.com/web/m&o_charts_department_imo_signs_and_posters.htm
http://www.eduweb.vic.gov.au/edulibrary/public/postcomp/worklearn/07B
KnowRules.doc
http://www.tpub.com/content/engine/14081/css/14081_319.htm
http://www.imo.org/Safety/mainframe.asp?topic_id=158
http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/shipsandcargoes/mcga-
cargosafety/dangerousgoods.htm
http://www.mardep.gov.hk/en/pub_services/ocean/miss_mdn.html

Unit 3

Cargo Handling Operation

Introduction
Cargo (or freight) is goods or produce transported generally for
commercial gain by ships, aircraft, train or truck. Our main focus in this
unit will be on cargo transported by ship.
The transportation of cargo by ships is not as straightforward as it may
seem at first glance.
Before cargo is actually transported by a ship from one port to another,
many things must first be in place. First, the correct documents must be
filled out and second, the right planning must be done before the ship
arrives with the cargo.
When the ship does arrive with the cargo, certain procedures must be
followed by the stevedores at the port in order to ensure a safe off-loading
operation.
Similar requirements must be met for the loading of cargo onto vessels.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

These we shall elaborate on as we go deeper into this unit.

Suffice it to say at this time, though that in general, much of the cargo
carriage requirements today are a result of International Codes which
have been adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The safe packing and handling of cargo is a major part of most industrial
processes and historically, due to the nature of the work, this has often
proved to be hazardous. Most accidents and incidents involving cargo are
caused by human error for example loads not being secured properly,
incorrect slinging techniques, leaving loose items such as tools on top of
loads, mixing hazardous cargos together and not having the proper
labeling, to mention but a few.
It is therefore not by chance but rather by deliberate design that you will
learn about the Codes dealing with various types of cargoes including
dangerous goods in packaged form. These Codes become mandatory after
they have been incorporated into the National Legislation or Regulations.
However, cargo handling operations, as usually referred to in the
maritime industry, is one of the core activities in the stevedoring and
transport /logistics chain of every port. It has four vital components that
have been subdivided into following components for the purpose of this
study as here reflected below.
- Types of Cargo
- Documentation involved in Maritime cargo transport
- Pre- Arrival Planning
- Loading and Off-loading Operations
These areas will be dealt with in the subsections which follow in the
exact sequence in which they are cited above.

Upon completion of this unit you will be able to

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

 identify types of cargo that are carried during maritime transport.

 demonstrate appropriate methods of handling dangerous ( imdg)
cargo..
Outcomes  identify the major documents used in cargo operations..
 describe the purpose of major documents used in cargo handling
operations..
 state the major steps involved in pre- arrival planning..
 explain the communication process prior to the arrival of the
vessels..
 explain different types of cargo handling operations.
 identify major international hand signals used in cargo handling
operations.
 identify steps in securing cargo onboard vessels.
 identify major causes of damage in cargo handling operations.

Notice of Readiness A notice presented by the ship to the port stating

(NOR): that the ship is ready to begin loading/discharging
operations.

Terminology Length Overall The extreme length of a ship measured from the
(LOA): foremost point to the aftermost point

Safe Working Load The maximum load that a piece of equipment can
(SWL): safely lift, store or transport without the risk of
deformation, compromise or fracture to the
equipment and which should not be exceeded.

Deckhead: The underside of a deck in a ship. It bears the same

relationship to a compartment on the deck below
as does the ceiling to the room of a house.

Deck: A level surface that runs from one side of a ship to

the other, forming a floor.

Twenty Foot A term used to describe a 20 feet long container

Equivalent Unit which is the standard unit of measurement.
(TEU):

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

1. Types of Cargo
There is a wide range of cargoes transported by ships and handled at
seaports or river ports throughout the world. The primary types are as
follows:
- Break bulk (General) cargo - cargo which is typically packaged for
shipping (in boxes, barrels, or bags) and stacked either loosely or on
wooden pallets and lifted into and out of the hold of a vessel by cranes on
the dock or aboard the ship itself.
- Bulk Cargoes - homogenous commodities that are not packaged. They
are neither on pallets nor in containers and are not handled as individual
pieces. Bulk shipments of salt, oil, tallow, scrap metal, alumina, grain,
gypsum, logs and wood chips, for instance, fall into this category.
- Containerized cargo - cargo stored in/on standard sized units of re-
usable metal containers specifically designed for consolidating smaller
packages of items(e.g. packages of toys, shoes, machinery components)
or for holding large single pieces of cargo( e g. heavy machinery or
equipment). Containerized cargo, it is to be noted, may also be
refrigerated commodities (such as frozen meats, cheese, ice cream, to
name a few).In the case of refrigerated commodities ,specialized
containers, called refrigerated or reefer units, are utilized. :
- Roll-on / Roll-off cargo – rolling stock cargo which does not require
cranes to be loaded or off-loaded but is driven on and off the ships’ decks
( adapted from Business Dictionary.com)
The above categories of cargo will be further elaborated on in the
sections which follow.

General Cargo
a. Break-Bulk (General) Cargo
Cargo that can be loaded in general, non-specialised storage areas or
standard shipping receptacles, e.g., boxes, barrels, crates, packages,
bundles and pallets is referred to as general or break bulk
cargo.(Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, US Department of
Defence, 2005).
As explained earlier, general cargo is another name for break-bulk cargo -
as you will see in the definition below- adapted from Wikipedia, the free
encyclopaedia.
Break bulk cargo or general cargo is a term used in shipping to cover a
great variety of goods that must be loaded individually, and not in inter
modal containers nor in bulk as with oil or grain. . Ships that carry this
sort of cargo are often called general cargo ships and all conventional
vessels. The term break bulk derives from the phrase breaking bulk —
the extraction of a portion of the cargo of a ship at the beginning of the
unloading process from the ship's holds. These goods may be in

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containers (bags, boxes, crates, drums, barrels) or they may be secured to

a pallet or skid as loads of items. It should be noted that this mode of
transporting cargo is declining as containers provides a more efficient
means of transporting this type of cargo. However not all types of cargo
can be containerized and some small ports does not have the resourses to
invest in the infrastructure and equipment neccessary to efficiently handle
containerized cargo.The photograph below depicts a break bulk operation
in progress.

Stevedores on a New York dock loading barrels of corn syrup onto a

barge on the. Photograph by Lewis Hine, ca. 1912 (An example of a
break bulk operation).

b. Bulk Cargo
Unlike break-bulk cargo, bulk cargo is cargo that is in a loose
unpackaged form and has homogeneous characteristics ( meaning that the
cargo is the same throughout ,e.g. a cargo of bulk oil or bulk wheat) .Bulk
cargo is without mark and cannot be counted as with individual packages.
According to Wikipedia, it is commodity cargo that is transported
unpackaged in large quantities and shipped loose in the hold of a ship.
Bulk cargos are usually dropped or poured, with a spout or shovel bucket,
as a liquid (e.g. molasses, soya oil) or as a mass of relatively small solids
(e.g. grain, coal), into a bulk carrier ship's hold, railroad car, or tanker
truck/trailer/semi-trailer body. Bulk cargos are classified as dry or liquid.

The picture below is an example of a dry bulk operation

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

This heap of iron ore pellets will be used in steel production. (Photo
courtesy Wikipedia)
Iron ore is one example of dry bulk cargo. Additional examples of dry
bulk cargos include:-
- coal
- grain (wheat, maize, rice, barley, oats, rye, sorghum, soybeans, etc.)
- iron (ferrous & non-ferrous ores, ferroalloys, pig iron, scrap metal,
pelletized taconite), etc.)
- bauxite
- wood chips
- cement
- chemicals (fertilizer, plastic granules & pellets, resin powder, synthetic
fiber, etc.)
- dry edibles (for animals or humans: alfalfa pellets, citrus pellets,
livestock feed, flour, peanuts, raw or refined sugar, seeds, starches, etc.)
- bulk minerals (sand & gravel, copper, limestone, salt, etc.)
An example of a liquid bulk operation is indicated below. The port of
operation is the Penny Newman, Stockton Terminal. At that terminal,
molasses and other liquid feed components are unloaded from ships and
stored in tanks located within the terminal’s compound.

Liquid bulk cargos ("wet" trades)

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

Other examples of liquid bulk cargo include:-

- petroleum
- liquefied natural gas (LNG)
- gasoline
- chemicals.
- liquid edibles (vegetable oil, cooking oil, fruit juices, etc.)

c. Containerised Cargo
Containerised cargo is cargo stored in metal containers that are used over
and over again in the transportation of cargo.
Containers are the largest and fastest growing cargo category in most
parts of the world. Containerized cargo includes everything from auto
parts and machinery components to shoes, toys, and frozen meat and
seafood. Containers are standaradized units of varying lengths although
the standard sizes are 20ft, 40ft and 45ft and these are transported
primarily by specialized container vessels .
There are are also various types of containers used for the carriage of
goods. Among these, dry vans hi-cubes, reefers and flat rack with the
majority of them conforming to ISO standard sizes and configuration. .
The standard sizes most commonly used are twenty and forty foot
containers with with the forty-five foot units being used mostly in Asia
and the United States.
There are also open top containers used for stowing cargo with awkward
shapes which extends above the standard height of the container, and flat
racks commonly used for carrying heavy machinery, steel, lumber and
similar types of cargo that cannot fit in the standard container.

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In addition, there are also ventilated containers used for the carriage of
goods that are not to be exposed to excessive heat.
Finally, the refrigerated container commonly referred to in the maritime
doctrine as reefer containers are used for the carriage of perishable..
htt://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cargo
Container Vessel

d. Roll – on / Roll off (Ro- Ro) Cargo

This is the rolling stock cargo which does not require cranes to be loaded
or off-loaded but is driven on and off the ships’ decks. Examples are
heavy machinery type of cargo such as vehicles, tractors, trucks or any
type of wheeled oversized cargo. This type of goods can be driven on
and or off the Ro-Ro (Roll-on Roll -off vessels.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RORO

Roll-on / Roll-off, or RO-RO for short, is a method by which a cargo

units attached to chassis are hooked up by a semi-trailer and driven onto
or off a vessel. Motor vehicles are alos a major part of ro-ro traffic. .
RO-RO cargo is carried on specially designed ships. These ships are
characterised by bow, stern, or side ramps for providing access to the
vessel and the wheeled units or motor vehicles are located at various
decks levels on the ship. RO-RO Hazards
1. The watertight integrity of RO-RO ships is vital. These ships have long
decks which can get quickly filled with water and reduce stability. Bow,
stern, and side shell doors should be maintained in an efficient condition
at all times.
2. The gradient of the ship to shore ramp should be as small as possible.
If the ramp is too steep, the towing unit can become uncoupled from the
trailer that it is pulling. In addition, the vehicle and its load may hit
obstructions above such as deckhead or become grounded on the ramp or
deck when it negotiates a change in gradient.
3. Vehicle movements and exhaust create hazard to personnel. It is
important that the space is adequately ventilated and people working in
the area should wear helmets and high visibility clothing.
Ro-Ro (Roll-on Roll-off) Vessels

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

RORO vessels have built-in ramps which allow the cargo to be efficiently
"rolled on" and "rolled off" the vessel when in port. While smaller ferries
that operate across rivers and other short distances still often have built-in
ramps, the term RORO is generally reserved for larger ocean-going
vessels. The ramps and doors may be stern-only, or bow and stern for
quick loading.

e. Refrigerated Cargo

Refrigerated cargo is the temperature-sensitive cargo that requires

temperature controlled transportation. Examples of this type of cargo
include meat, fruits, vegetables, dairy products and other foodstuffs.
In broad terms refrigerated cargoes fall into three major categories.
1. Frozen cargo.
2. Chilled cargo
3. Temperature regulated cargo (Cool cargo)
Frozen cargo is carried in the hard frozen condition which means that a
temperature of at least -20 deg. C must be attainable if the full range of
frozen cargoes is to be transported. Most frozen commodities are carried
at a temperature below -7 deg C when no micro-organism growth is
possible.

Chilled cargo is commodities where the outside has been frozen hard but
the inside remains unfrozen. It is claimed that chilled meat textures and
tastes are better than those for frozen meat. The carriage of chilled cargo

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

requires some considerable care due to the fact that the temperature range
at which it is carried is normally very small, ie. -2 deg C to -3 deg C.
Temperature regulated cargoes are those which are carried at a
temperature which restricts processes such as ripening. Particular
commodities require different temperatures so that goods such as apples
can be carried as low as 1degwhilst citrus fruits such as grapefruits or
lemons are carried at 10 deg. C to 12 deg. C.
Transport of Refrigerated Cargo
Refrigerated cargo is transported by sea via two main methods.
- Loose or unitised refrigerated cargo transported aboard custom built
reefer ships or traditional type general cargo vessels which have a limited
reefer capacity.
- Containerised refrigerated cargo transport aboard container vessels
which have fully or partial refrigerated capacity.
Carriage aboard reefer vessels:
The cargo temperature is usually controlled by a forced draft cold air
ventilation system. In a centralised system brine is pumped from the
refrigeration plant to one or more small cooler rooms in each deck where
the brine passes through a series of coils. Air is then blown over the coils
and carried through ducting to each of the chambers served by that cooler
room. The refrigerated chambers normally have temperature monitoring
devices which automatically actuates or stops the cooler room fans, thus
maintaining the desired carrying temperature. Decentralised systems
have small refrigerating units in each of the cooler rooms but the cold air
temperature control system remains similar.
Carriage aboard Container Vessel:
The carriage of refrigeration cargoes in containers falls into two broad
categories, namely ship dependent containers and independent containers.
Ship dependent containers are the most common and they are of two
distinct types. One type of container is merely an insulated box with inlet
and outlet holes where the ships forced draft cold air system is plugged
into the container.
The other type of dependent container is basically an insulated container
with its own refrigeration plant which requires the ships electrical power
to operate the plant.

Observe a cargo operation involving different types of cargo if possible.

Activity

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2. Cargo Documentation
Documentation is important in international trade. It is the means by
which instructions are communicated during the trade transactions; it
conveys important safety warnings and it ensures that records are
maintained throughout the process. The main documents used in
maritime transport will be described hereunder.
a. Bill Of Lading
A bill of Lading is a shipping document that serves the following three
purposes;
a. receipt of goods
b. evidence of a contract
c. the original bill of lading only serves as a document of title

A bill of lading is a type of document that is used to acknowledge the

receipt of a shipment of goods. A transportation company or carrier
issues this document to a shipper. In addition to acknowledging the
receipt of goods, a bill of lading indicates the particular vessel on which
the goods have been placed, their intended destination, and the terms for
transporting the shipment to its final destination. It is a document that
identifies their rightful owner of a package, goods, or consignment.
(http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-bill-of-lading.htm)

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b. Notice of Readiness

The Notice of readiness is a document submitted by the ship to the

discharge or loading port port attesting to the fact that the vessel is ready
in all respects for cargo operations to commence. Whilst the owners are
also usually required to serve various approximate and definite notices of
expected arrival at load or discharge port to enable the charterers to make
all necessary arrangement in time, the notice of readiness constitutes the
contractual step which is required to trigger the commencement of
laytime. Due to this, charterparties usually contain provisions which

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stipulate a) when notice of readiness may be contractually served and b)

when laytime commences once notice of readiness has been validly
served (often a set period after tender of the notice of readiness, although
commencement of laytime may be further suspended to make allowance
for weekend and other periods when the port is not operative).
Requirements for a valid notice of readiness to be served:
1. The vessel is an arrived vessel
2. The vessel is ready to receive or discharge the cargo
3. The notice of readiness is tendered to and received by the proper
person according to the charterparty
4. The notice of readiness is tendered in a contractual way
5. The notice of readiness is tendered at a time that is allowed by the
charterparty.
Laytime
Laytime" is the term used to refer to the time allowed to the charterers to
load/discharge cargo in return for payment of freight to the owners. If the
charterers are unable to load/discharge cargo within this allowed period,
they will be obliged to pay demurrage (liquidated damages for break of
contract) or detention (unliquidated damages for breach of contract) to
compensate the owners for their loss of use of the vessel. Naturally, most
charterparties contain provisions which suspend the running of laytime
and/or demurrage in certain circumstances as may have been agreed
between the parties. In addition, neither laytime nor demurrage will run if
the loss of time is due to a breach on the owners’ part.

c. Stowage Plan
A cargo stowage plan is a diagram of a ship’s cargo space that shows
the location in the ship (on and below deck) of all the cargo aboard.
The stowage plan shows accurately the location of cargo by hatches. It
also shows the cargo for each port en route, the location of heavy
lifts, the capacity and location of ship’s booms, remarks on special
items of cargo (location and quantity of mail, classified cargo, protected
cargo, and so forth).
(http://www.tpub.com/content/administration/14242/css/14242_237.htm
In the case of specialized container vessels it is a profile or outline of the
bays on the container ship which shows the specific location of each
individual container. The nomeculture of container ships conform to ISO
standards so that there is consitency and stevedores can readily identify
where a container is located by the given slot position (on deck, below
deck to the port side or starboard side).

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Container Stowage Plan

Pierre-Yves POTEAU -OMI - IPER 10

30/Sept 2009

Position on board: 250182

Pierre-Yves POTEAU -OMI - IPER 11

30/Sept 2009

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

d. Dangerous Cargo Manifest

Anyone who ships hazardous materials on a vessel or barge must prepare
a Dangerous Cargo Manifest (DCM). On a vessel, the DCM must be kept
in a designated holder on or near the bridge, in the possession of the
captain or master. On a barge, the DCM must be kept in a readily-
accessible location on the barge. It may be in a marked, tube-like
container. It should be in the possession of the captain or master. A DCM
on a vessel or barge alerts you to the presence of hazardous materials on
board, and their identities.

e. Cargo Manifest
Document that provides full information about all cargo on board of a
Ship /aircraft. It contains the number of the corresponding Bill of
Lading, weight and number of parcels, description of the contents and
nature of the parcels. (http://wwww.logcluster.org/acronyms/cargo-
manifest)

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f. Time Sheets
The time sheet is a document that shows the number of days(laydays) the
ship remained at the port doing discharge/load operations
For the calculation of the number of laydays it is necessary to draw up a
time sheet, showing the following information:
1. Date and hour of arrival in the roads or in the port.
2. Date and hour of arrival in the loading or discharging place.
3. Date and hour on which the ship is ready in all respects to start loading
or discharging, as stated in the "notice of readiness".
4. Date and hour on which the "notice of readiness" was tendered.
5. Date and hour on which the "notice of readiness" was accepted by
Charterers, receivers or their agents.
6. Date and hour on which the loading/discharging really started and on
which days and hours loading/discharging took place.

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

7. Date and hour on which, according to the charter, the laydays started.
8. Loading and discharging speed according to charter party.
9. Statement of days, which could not be worked, e.g. Sundays and
holidays, strike, weather conditions (if weather working days have been
agreed) etc.
10. Statement of quantity loaded or discharged per day and of the total
quantity loaded or discharged.
11. Statement of the time allowed for loading and discharging, based on
points 8 and 10 above in accordance with the provisions of the charter
party.
12. Date and hour on which the loading/discharging was terminated.
On the basis of this "time sheet", which must be signed by the master and
the shippers/receivers, the number of laydays is determined and
"demurrage/despatch money" is calculated, if the permitted period is
exceeded, respectively if the ship was loaded or discharged within the
allowed period and according to the charter party for the gained time
despatch money is due.
It is important, that in the loading and discharging port an agreement is
reached between the Charterers, receivers and the master concerning the
calculated demurrage or despatch money.
If it would appear that this is not possible, then the master can sign the
time sheet under protest and at the same time point out the differences of
opinion. In case the master is not convinced, that the "time sheet" reflects
the correct position, then he can sign the time sheet with the reserve
"subject to Owners' approval", and leave it to the owner to come back on
the contents of the time sheet (eventually with his lawyer).
g. Statement of Fact
At the end of the stay of the ship in the port the agent will make up the
history with all data which are important for the Ship Owner and for the
Charterer and that are related to the loading and the discharging of the
ship. This historical statement is called the "statement of facts" or "port
log" and serves as basis for the drawing up of the "time sheet" used for
the calculation of the laytime and demurrage and possibly despatch
money. The officer on board must record all information relating to the
loading or discharging (working hours, interruptions of loading and/or
discharging) in the ship's log book or in a special workbook.
h. Record of Delay
In the liner trade there is no agreement regarding lay time as no contract
exists between an individual shipper and charterer but between a shipping
line and a port operator airport authority. During operations the
stevedores will keep a record of delay which will document the activities
at each hatch or crane particularly the occurrences which result in a delay
in the operations. This document is used to apportion costs, which may be
incurred to either the port or the shipping line based on the contractual
agreement in place. This document is also used by the terminal to
calculate their productivity and to identify any area of weakness which if
corrected could result in the increased productivity of the port.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

i. Port Delivery Order

A delivery Order is a document from a consignor, a shipper, or an owner
of freight which orders the release of the transportation of cargo to
another party. Usually the written order permits the direct delivery of
goods to a warehouseman, carrier or other person who in the course of
their ordinary business issues warehouse receipts or bills of lading.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delivery_order)

j. Customs Entry Document

When clearing any goods, even if exempted from customs duties, a
detailed customs declaration, as in the approved forms shall be submitted
to the customs office containing all the information that enable in
application of the customs regulations and levying applicable customs
duties and for the purposes of statistics.

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

Source:
http://www.anglopacific.co.uk/documents/customs_inventory_sample.pdf

k. Container Interchange Report

A document executed by a truck carrier and a terminal transferring
possession of a container or chassis from one to the other, and showing
equipment condition at time of transfer.
(http://www.crowley.com/glossary/default.asp)
Another type of container Interchange Report is one updated at shipside
by stevedores indicating the condition of the container or cargo at the
time of discharge so that this record exists if any claim for damages to
cargo or container arises in the future

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

3. Pre Arrival Planning

Pre arrival planning is the first, and in many ways the most important, of
the steps in Cargo operations. It is designed to help the planning of the
organisation of berth operations to achieve the highest possible
productivity and the most efficient allocation of berth resources to reduce
to a minimum ship’s time in port.
Before a vessel arrives in port, a decision has to be made on which berth
the vessel will go alongside for discharging and loading.
It is also essential to make a provisional plan for the labour, equipment
and other resources that will be needed to load or discharge the cargo,
provisional estimates of the type of resources needed, the time at which
they will be required and an estimation of how logn the operation will
take.
This operational or working plan is just as heavily dependent on the
availability of information as is berth allocation, particularly details of the
type and stowage of cargo.The ultimate aim of resource allocation is to
plan the resources needed on the port in such a way as to handle the

87
Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

vessel operations quickly and efficiently, at the lowest cost per ton of
cargo or container handled. For a discharger, the process of preliminary
resource allocation could start as early as three days before the vessel is
due to berth, by which time all the cargo information should have been
received from the shipping line, ship owner or their agents. The transit
time between the last port of call prior to arrival will however influence
this timeline as the last port of call could be only one or two days away in
terms of transit time.
The documents needed are a copy of the ships stowage plan, a summary
of hatch breakdown if possible, a copy of the manifest, and a list of all
specials including refrigerated, hazardous, transhipment or over stowed
cargo, animals, and so on.
For a vessel which will be loading , basically similar information is
needed- the expected tonnage to be loaded , the specific cvontainer
numbers if full containers are being loaded, the empty container
requirements, the preffered cargo loading sequence if this is requested, a
loading prestow if the load plkan is to be prepared by the terminal or a
loading plan (as early as possible) if this is going to be prepared by the
ship and any special working instructions issued by the ship owner or his
agent.
Note that in today’s era of sophisticated ship planning systems some ports
will require information regarding all of the cargo on the vessel so that at
the end of the operation a file which shows the overall condition of the
ship on departure from the port in terms of cargo/containers can be
prepared for forwarding to the next port of call and the shipping line
planners.
1. Berth Allocation
What information will be needed to make sure that the vessel is put
alongside a suitable berth? First the dimensions of the vessel have to be
known, in particular, length, breadth ie length overall (LOA), breath
overall (BOA) and draft (DFT) since the berth designated must be of
sufficient length and depth of water to accomodate the vessel . Will the
vessel need shore side cranes, or will she handle the discharge/loading
herself, with her own cranes and derricks? However that is not all the
information needed. The way in which the cargo is distributed among the
hatches will also influence the choice of berth and the number of gangs
deployed. The nature of the cargo itself, wether its containerised, in break
bulk, refrigerated, hazardous, heavy lifts, packages of awkward shapes or
sizes also helps in the determination of the choice of berth.
2. Resource Allocation
This is a very vital activity and is of paramount importance in the pre-
arrival stages of cargo operation. At this stage the human element (i.e
labour) and requisitioning of stevedoring gears like container spreaders,
pallets, rope slings, wire straps, vehicle and lorry slings, just to name a
few, are at this point scheduled.
In addition to that, the required mechanical equipments such as reach
stackers, front end loaders, fork lifts and Tug-Masters are also scheduled
to facilitate the off loading and loading operations safely and efficiently.

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

Eg: Car Sling

The gear seen above is an illustration of a vehicle handling sling used for
the discharge and loading of cars.
3. Estimating Operating Time
An essential part of the pre planning exercise is the estimation of the time
the vessel will take to complete its entire operation. The determination of
the estimated completion time (ETC) is the product of a number of
factors, The type of ship, the average productivity attainable on this type
of ship (this will be based on the port productivity target for the class of
ship and the actual productivity achieved on previous calls), the
distribution of the work the available labour and equipment recourses, the
location and availability of the cargo, the availability and location of the
storage area for the cargo being discharged. In other words any and every
thing which can impact the productivity and therefore the completion
time must be considered. It is critical; however that the estimated
Completed time (ETC) be calculated as accurately as possible as this has
implications for berth and labour utilization as well as cost. The result of
hugely inaccurate ETCs can be vessel delays, idle labour, idle berth,
overtime labour cost, cancellation of pilots cost among others.
Vessel Pre-Arrival Information
The pre-arrival information in respect of a vessel calling a por is
required byboth the Operations and Security Departmentsand shall
consist of the following:
a. its name;
b. its country of registry;
c. the name of its registered owner;
d. the name of its operator;
e. the name of its classification society;
f. its international radio call sign;
g. its International Ship Security Certificate, or ship security compliance
document number;

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Unit 3 Cargo Handling Operation

h. its International Maritime Organization number, if it is a SOLAS ship;

i. the date of issuance, date of expiry and name of the issuing body of its
International Ship Security Certificate, or ship security document;
j. confirmation that the vessel has an approved vessel security plan;
k. a statement of when its last 10 declarations of security were completed;
l. details of any security threats to the vessel during the last ten calls at
marine facilities;
m. details of any deficiencies in its security equipment and systems,
including the communications systems, and the way in which the master
of the vessel intends to correct them;
n. if applicable, the name of its agent and their 24-hour telephone and
facsimile numbers;
o. if applicable, the name of its charter;
p. its position and the time at which it reached that position;
q. its course and speed;
r. its destination and estimated time of arrival at its destination;
s. the name of a contact person at the marine facility that it will visit and
their 24-hour telephone and facsimile numbers;
t. the following information in respect of its last 10 marine facilities
visited:
i. the receiving facility,
ii. the marine facility visited;
iii. the city and country,
iv. the date and time of arrival, and
v. the date and time of departure;
u. a general description of the cargo, including the cargo amount; and
v. if applicable, the presence and description of any dangerous substances
or devices on board.
Sample of Pre Arrival Form
Please ensure that all relevant fields are filled in.

Name of ship

IMO number

Registered
Flag State

Date of ship’s January

- -
last visit to

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 Transport and Logistics - Stevedoring

UK

Dangerous
Goods carried
(over 10 kg)
and UN Class
No.

Does the ship No: If not, please detail

have a valid Yes: why? Does it have an
International approved SSP?
Ship Security
Certificate
(ISSC)?

What Security
Level is the
ship
operating at?

4. Loading and Off-loading Operations

4.1 Handling, stowage & securing
Learners should learn how to plan, handle, stow and secure a range of
cargoes including break bulk, solid bulk, containers, RO-RO, reefer and
dangerous cargo
General Cargo
Due to the vast variety of general cargoes carried by ships, it is difficult
to lay down firm rules for their handling and stowage. In general, the
stowage of a particular commodity depends upon the following factors:
1. Destination
2. Quantity
3. Susceptibility to taint
4. Ability to taint]
5. Susceptibility to breakage

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6. Susceptibility to pilferage
7. Susceptibility to spontaneous combustion
8. Special legal requirements such as those for dangerous goods
9. Whether cargo is hygroscopic or non-hygroscopic
Hold Preparation
Dunnage used aboard a ship may be either of the permanent or temporary
nature. Permanent dunnage includes tank top ceiling, spar ceiling and
wooden deck grids. Temporary dunnage includes loose board timber of
various dimensions, polythene sheeting, waterproof "kraft" or "sisal"
paper, tarpaulins, cargo nets, separation cloths, bamboo mats, inflatable
dunnage bags etc.
The main purpose of using dunnage is:
- To protect cargo from coming into contact with moisture resulting from
sweat, leakage from other cargoes, and bilges.
- To assist in ventilation.
- To evenly spread the load of heavy stows.
- To provide separation of cargo.
- To chock off and secure cargo by filling in broken stowage.
Deck Cargo
The Code of Safe Practice for Carrying Timber Deck Cargo contains
recommendations for stowage which can be used for other deck cargoes
as well.
The requirements are :
Before timber deck cargo is loaded on any area of the weather deck:
- hatch covers and other openings to spaces below that area should be
securely closed and battened down;
- air pipes and ventilators should be efficiently protected and check-
valves or similar devices should be examined to ascertain their
effectiveness against the entry of water;
- accumulations of ice and snow on such area should be removed; and
- it is normally preferable to have all deck lashings, uprights, etc., in
position before loading on that specific area. This will be necessary
should a preloading examination of securing equipment be required in the
loading port.
The timber deck cargo should be so stowed that:
- safe and satisfactory access to the crew's quarters, pilot boarding access,
machinery spaces and all other areas regularly used in the necessary
working of the ship is provided at all times;
- where relevant, openings that give access to the areas below can be
properly closed and secured against the entry of water;
- safety equipment, devices for remote operation of valves and sounding
pipes are left accessible; and

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- it is compact and will not interfere in any way with the navigation and
necessary working of the ship.
- Upon completion of loading, and before sailing, a thorough inspection
of the ship should be carried out. Soundings should also be taken to
verify that no structural damage has occurred causing an ingress of water.
The height of the timber deck cargo should be restricted so that:
- adequate visibility is assured;
- a safe margin of stability is maintained at all stages of the voyage;
- any forward-facing profile does not present overhanging shoulders to a
head sea; and
- the weight of the timber deck cargo does not exceed the designed
maximum permissible load on the weather deck and hatches.

Heavy Cargo
The factors to be considered when planning the stowage of heavy cargo
using the vessel’s lifting gear are summarised below.
- The weight of the cargo should not exceed the safe working load of the
lifting gear.
- Heavy cargo should always be stowed at the bottom of the hatch and
light cargo on top of it to give the vessel the required stability.
- The stability of the vessel at the time of loading should have been
worked out (by vessel planner and confirmed by vessel command) to
ensure that the shift in the vessel's centre of gravity does not make it
unstable.
- The point loading limit (or stack weight limitations) should be obtained
from the vessel's capacity plan. The stowage positions should be such that
excess weight is not exerted on deck or tank top plating between frames
and beams. If necessary, provide bearers to spread the load.
- The cargo should not block access to fire hydrants, sounding pipes,
equipment and spaces necessary for the safe operation of the vessel.
- The vessel should be in an upright position with as little list or trim as
possible, this is of course dependent on the approved stowage plan
provided.

Securing of General Cargo

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The following diagrams illustrate some useful concepts in cargo securing.

Figure (4.1a) Securing cargo by using timber

Figure (4.1b) Frapping and Bowsing

Frapping and bowsing are used when using fibre ropes for lashing.

Figure (4.1c) lashing a tank having no securing points

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Figure (4.1d) Securing a unit load stowed free at three sides

Note how the corners are protected against damage by wire lashings in
figure (4.1e)

Figure (4.1e) Tightening and Securing of Timber Deck Cargo

Observe as many cargo operations involving general cargo as possible.

Note the planning, preparation, handling, stowage, and securing
carried out.

Activity

Container

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The International Standards Organisation (I.S.O.) containers come in a

variety of sizes, but the most common sizes are given below.

Length Breadth Height

20 ft 8 ft 8 ft or 8ft 6 ins

40 ft 8 ft 8 ft or 8ft 6 ins

The term TEU stands for Twenty foot or Equivalent Unit.

Containers have hollow castings at each corner with holes which engage
with twist locks or similar fittings, allowing the container to be secured to
another container, ship’s decks and hatches, trucks, rail wagons, or to be
lifted using a spreader. Containers should be lifted by using an
appropriate spreader, never by attaching wire slings directly to the corner
castings unless the container is damaged which prevents the use of a
spreader When wire slings are used, it is not possible to apply vertical lift
at each corner casting. Therefore there will be undue strain on the
container, possibly resulting in damage to the container.
On purpose built container ships, the containers are stowed in cell guides
as shown in figure (4.1f)

Figure (4.1f) Cell Guides

Where cell guides are not provided, containers need to be secured by
lashing equipment such as rods, wires or chains.

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Container Securing Equipment

Lashings
a. Chains
Chains are flexible and do not kink when tightened around sharp corners.
Their lengths can be easily varied. However, container sizes and locations
are predictable and the lengths of most lashes are same. In addition, the
lashing are not required to bend around sharp corners. For this reason
and due to the comparatively more cumbersome handling of chains, they
have largely been replaced by wire and rod lashings.
b. Wires
Wire lashings were used extensively in the earlier methods of lashing
containers. The containers were stacked as solid blocks with bridge
fittings connecting adjacent stacks. Long wire lashings were used from
the top of the stack to the deck. However, this meant that the bottom
container in each stack had a tendency to rack. Long wires were difficult
to install and difficult to store without kinking. With the development of
twistlocks and rods, the use of wires has steadily declined.
c. Rods
Rods in combination with twistlocks are today the most common means
of lashing containers. They have the following advantages:
- They are stiffer than wires or chains.
- They can often be applied directly from deck without climbing on
stacks.
- They can be used on the lower corner castings of top tier containers.
- They require less maintenance and last longer.
Rods are fitted with fixed heads or hooks, or eye ends which fit over a
penguin hook. An extension handle may be provided to make handling
easier.

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Figure (4.1g) Types of Rods

d. Securing pads and hooks for lashes.

These connect the lashing to the corner casting of the container. They
may be connected permanently to the lashing or they may be separate.
Some types are shown in the figure (a.8)

Figure (a.8) Types of hooks and securing pads

Tensioners
a. Turnbuckles.
These are the oldest and most common type of tensioner found on ships.
Turnbuckles can be threaded at one or both ends and can be either of
open or enclosed types. Some turnbuckles are provided with a fixed or
detachable hand-wheel for tensioning.

b. Lever tensioners
These are used only with chains and are most common on RO-RO ships
where it is necessary to secure trailers as well as containers. They are
dangerous to tension in rough weather because they first have to be
slackened and then tightened. They can cause injury by springing when
released.
c. Quick Release Tensioners
These are designed for use with wire lashings. They are quicker to use
than turnbuckles and require less maintenance. However, they can need
more room and can spring when released.
d. Powered Tensioners
The ‘Quick tite’ tensioner can be used with any type of lashing and can
be tightened pneumatically or with a hydraulic hand pump. The
tightening unit is first pre-tightened by hand and then a special pump is
placed on top for further tightening. After tightening, the unit is locked
and the pump removed
The 'Speed lash tensioner' operates pneumatically. It is safe, quick and
requires little space. However a pneumatic system needs the installation
of pipes and air points along the ship. Hoses lying around can prove a
hazard on RO-RO ships.

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Figure (a.9) Types of Tensioners

Stacking equipment
a. Non locking stackers.
These can be provided with a cone on one side; in which case they are
used as base stackers, or they can have two opposite cones which fit into
the corner castings of upper and bottom containers.
b. Pin locking stackers.
These are simply stacker cones which can be locked to the corner casting
by a pin. The pin can be inserted from the side or from the end of the
corner casting.
c. Twistlocks.
Twistlocks are stackers which are locked to the container by twisting a
handle. Some twistlocks can be used upside down which can create
confusion as to whether they are locked or not. To prevent this, some
twistlocks are provided with the handles bent in one direction.

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Figure (a.10) Types of stacking equipment

Bridge fittings.
These connect container stacks horizontally and are used to secure
containers as a block.

Figure (a.11) Types of bridge fittings

Practical lashing consideration

The container securing system is primarily concerned with restraining
containers against racking and tipping.
Vertical lashing provides tipping restraint to the containers. This can
also be provided by twistlocks. Vertical lashings provide no racking
restraint and may actually increase the likelihood of racking in the bottom
container of a stack.
A lashing rod can be connected to either the top or the bottom corner of
the container. Figure 3.12 illustrates 3 lashing arrangements.

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Arrangement 1 provides primary racking restraint to the third high

container while arrangement 2 provides racking restraint primarily to the
second high container. In practice, the main concern is the racking of the
bottom one or two containers.
Arrangement 2 provides a tipping restraint to the third high container that
is not provided by arrangement 3.
When wires are used, they are fitted by a person leaning over the edge of
a container stack from above. Hence wire lashings would be connected
to the top corner castings as in 1 or 3.
When rods are used, they are usually fitted from below and can be
connected to the top or bottom corners. Because of tipping restraint, they
are commonly connected to bottom corner castings i.e. arrangement 2.

Figure (a.12) Lashing arrangements

It is a common misconception that the function of the tensioner is to

make the lash as tight as possible. In practice, container lashings should
be tightened just enough to remove slack and tension the lash.
As can be seen from the above diagrams there are different types of
lashing arrangements possible and the approved lashing arrangement will
differ from ship to ship. It is therefore advisable and in fact should be a
requirement that on boarding a vessel to commence operations a lashing
arrangement plan or “lashing diagram is secured from the vessel
command. In fact the approved lashing arrangement plan is usually
posted on notices on board some vessels. It is however advisable that
dialogue is had with the chief officer and a lashing arrangement plan
secured from him as sometimes based on the time of year and destination
the vessel may request a lashing arrangement which differs from what is

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the usual arrangement. Dialogue and the securing of a lashing plan at the
outset of the operation will prevent disputes over lashing at the
completion of the operation and avoid unnecessary delays for the
correction of lashing.

Observe as many cargo operations involving containerised cargo as

possible. Note the planning, preparation, handling, stowage, and
securing carried out.

Activity

Stowage & Securing of Vehicles

Stowage
- Wheels should be chocked.
- Parking brakes should be applied.
- Vehicles with diesel engines should not be left in gear
- Free play in vehicle suspension should be removed by:
- tightly securing the vehicle to deck, or
- jacking up chassis prior to securing, or
- releasing air pressure in air suspension systems.
- Semi-trailers should not be supported on their landing legs unless they
are specially designed for that purpose and so marked.
Securing
Lashing equipment includes chains, wires, synthetic fibre ropes and
webbing. Tensioning is achieved by levers and turnbuckles for chains,
quick release tensioners for wires and many forms of buckles and ratchet
units for webbings.
Lashing support equipment includes wheel chocks to provide longitudinal
restraint, trailer horse to support the front of the trailer and adjustable
trailer jacks to support the rear end. A locking stanchion (Roloc-box) can
also be used

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Figure (a.13) Trailer support equipment

Securing points on the vehicle should be marked in a clearly visible
colour. Only one lashing should be attached to any one aperture of the
securing point.

Figure (a.14) Lashing of a road trailer

Securing Of Automobiles
Cars can be lashed by straps, wires, chains or ropes. Several patented
devices for lashing automobiles are available and the manufacturer's
instructions should be followed.
In general:
- All cars should be lashed with minimum 4 lashings.
- Lashings must only be attached to the points specified by the car
manufacturer and not to wheel rims or bumpers.
- Cars should not be lashed to one another.
- Parking brakes should be applied, windows closed and doors shut.

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Figure (a.15) Lashing of cars

Observe a cargo operation involving RO-RO cargo if possible. Note the

planning, preparation, handling, stowage, and securing carried out.

Activity

4.2. Handling of Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods, also called hazardous materials or HazMat ("HazMat
teams" are personnel specially trained to handle dangerous goods), are
solids, liquids or gases that can harm people, other living organisms,
property, or the environment. They are often subject to chemical
regulation. Dangerous goods include materials that are radioactive,
flammable, explosive, corrosive, oxidizing, biohazardous, toxic or
allergenic. Also included are physical conditions such as compressed
gases and liquids or hot materials or chemicals, or may have other
characteristics that render them hazardous in specific circumstances.
The colours of each diamond in a way has reference to its hazard ie:
Flammable = red, Explosive = orange, because mixing red (flammable)
with yellow (oxidising agent) creates orange. Non Flammable Non Toxic
Gas = green, due to all compressed air vessels being this colour in France
after World War II. France is where the diamond system of HazMat
identification originated.
IMDG Code
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code published
by IMO, provides guidance on the safe carriage of packaged dangerous
goods.
The IMDG Code requires that dangerous goods are properly identified,
packaged, marked, labelled or placarded, documented and segregated. It
consists of a number of volumes which are divided into a General
Introduction, a General Index, and individual Schedules for different
substances and materials. In addition, the Supplement to the Code
includes the Emergency Schedule, Medical First Aid Guide, and the BC
Code.
Classification of Dangerous Goods

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The IMDG Code divides dangerous goods into classes as follows :

Class 1 - Explosives
Class 2 - Gases: compressed, liquefied or dissolved under
pressure
Class 3 - Flammable liquids
Class 4.1 - Flammable solids
Class 4.2 - Flammable solids, or substances liable to
spontaneous combustion
Class 4.3 - Flammable solids, or substances which in contact
with water emit flammable gases
Class 5.1 - Oxidising substances
Class 5.2 - Organic peroxides
Class 6.1 - Poisonous (toxic) substances
Class 6.2 - Infectious substances
Class 7 - Radioactive substances
Class 8 - Corrosives
Class 9 - Miscellaneous dangerous substances, being any
other substances that experience has shown, or may show, to be of
such a dangerous character that the provisions of this Part should
apply to them.

Markings & Labelling

Each class of dangerous goods is identified by a particular label as shown
in the following figures (b.1), (b.2) and (b.3)

Class 1

Class 2.1

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Class 2.2

Class 2.3

Class 3

Class 4.1

Figure (b.1) Dangerous Goods Labels

Class 4.2

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Class 4.3

Class 5.1

Class 5.2

Class 6.1

Class 6.2

Class 7 Category I

Figure (b.2) Dangerous Goods Labels

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Class 7 Category II

Class 7 Category III

Class 8 Corrosive

Class 9 General Hazards

Marine Pollutant

Figure (b.3) Dangerous Goods Labels

Marine pollutants are categorised as ‘harmful substances’ in the IMDG

Code.
It is the responsibility of every port to ensure that all containers with
dangerous goods have the appropriate label affixed to all four sides of the
container and containers should be checked on discharge and loading to
ensure that this is in place. If there are any missing labels then the ship’s
agent should be informed so that the situation can be corrected and
records of this infraction kept for future reference if required. Vessels
have been known to refuse to load containers, which were not
appropriately labelled on all four sides.

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4.3. Cargo Care

Earlier you have learnt that the cargo carrier is obliged to care for the
cargo among other things. In this section we will examine the causes of
cargo damage and how to minimise such damage. In addition, we will
look at ventilation of cargo as well as the requirement to have a cargo
securing manual on board.
Cargo Damage
Causes of Damage
Any cargo loaded on board a vessel should be discharged in the same
state in which it was loaded. Cargo can be damaged by :
- improper handling during loading and discharging;
- rubbing and chafing with ship structures or other cargo;
- temperature fluctuations during the voyage;
- contamination with other cargo;
- dust and stain;
- moisture, rain, fresh or sea water;
- rats, mice and other vermin;
- crushing under the weight of other cargo;
- reaction with other cargo; and
- heat.
In addition, all cargo must be secured against shifting due to the motion
of the vessel in a seaway. All weather deck openings such as hatches and
doors should be tightly secured and maintained in good order to prevent
the entry of sea water, rain or spray.
A lot of cargo carried by sea is very valuable. You should take all
necessary precautions against theft of cargo. In port, adequate watch
should be maintained. Unauthorised access to the vessel should be
prohibited. Sometimes it may be possible to block access to a valuable
cargo by stowing it under less valuable cargo.
The measures taken to protect cargo will depend upon the nature and type
of cargo carried. Cargo planning should involve a careful consideration of
the factors that can cause damage to a particular cargo. Cargo should then
be handled, stowed and carried to minimise the risk of damage.

Minimising Damage
For obvious reasons, you have to prevent the sources of damage if you
want to discharge the cargo in the same state as when it was loaded.
Mechanical Damage

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- Inefficient and improper slinging of cargo is a major source of damage

during loading and discharge. Slings should always have an adequate
load limit. The material used for the sling should be selected so that it
does not damage the cargo. For very small packages, it is preferable to
use nets.
- Care should be taken when using mechanical devices such as fork-lift
trucks. The rate of loading or discharging should be slowed down to a
manageable level.
- To prevent chafe, stow the cargo packages tightly so that they do not
rub against each other. Keep the cargo away from sharp edges and rough
surfaces.
- In order to prevent damage through crushing do not place heavy cargo
on top of lighter cargo.
- Secure the cargo prior to sailing so that it does not start moving when
the ship rolls or pitches in a seaway.
Pilferage
To prevent loss of cargo due to theft:
- Cargo should be stowed in a secure lock-up.
- Where a separate lock-up is not available, valuable cargo should be
overstowed with less valuable cargo.
- Adequate lighting should be provided in port.
- Access to the cargo space should be effectively closed when not in use.
- Accurate and reliable tallying should be carried out.
Moisture and Temperature Control
- Leakage from hatch covers.
- Leakage from other cargo.
- Green dunnage.
- Rain (when hatches are left open).
- Inadequate or incorrect ventilation.
Some cargoes are liable to spontaneous combustion. Examples include
coal and copra. To avoid this hazard, stow the cargo away from local
sources of heat such as engine room bulkhead and casing. Keep away
from wet cargoes. Do not place the cargo in direct sunlight. Ventilate if
necessary, to reduce the effects of heat build up.
Contamination
Different cargoes need to be segregated, particularly:
- dangerous goods
- dry cargoes
- wet cargoes
- clean cargoes
- dirty cargoes

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- delicate cargoes
- tainting cargoes
The risk of cargo contamination can be reduced if the following rules are
followed:
1. Keep poisons away from foodstuff.
2. Stow delicate and tainting cargoes in separate lockers.
3. Keep flammable cargoes away from sources of heat.
4. Secure cargoes so that they are not free to move.
5. Do not accept leaking or damaged cargo packages for loading.
6. Put wet cargoes underneath dry cargoes.
7. Separate clean and dusty cargoes by an effective barrier such as
tarpaulins.

Observe as many different types of cargo loading operations as you can

and note the measures taken to prevent cargo damage.

Activity

Cargo Ventilation
The purpose of cargo ventilation is to:
- cool down the cargo
- remove dangerous gases collecting in the cargo space
- remove odour, and
- Prevent condensation.
In attempting to prevent cargo damage, account must be taken of the
special properties of the cargo carried.
Nature of Cargoes
Cargoes can be basically divided into two types. These are as follows:
1. Non-Hygroscopic Cargoes
2. Hygroscopic Cargoes
Non-hygroscopic cargoes are those which neither absorb nor liberate
moisture and which therefore do not influence the moisture content of the
surrounding air. That is, they do not alter the Relative Humidity of the
air in the cargo space.

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Examples of non-hygroscopic cargoes are metals, machinery, glass and

canned goods.
Hygroscopic cargoes are those which themselves contain a certain
percentage of moisture and which can either absorb more moisture from
the surrounding air in the cargo space or alternatively liberate moisture to
the surrounding air and thereby increase its relative humidity.
Cargoes of this type include every kind of agricultural product and they
in fact make up the bulk of the materials of commerce. Examples are
timber, cereals, textiles, coffee, fruit, tobacco, salt, sugar, phosphates:
hides and skins etc.
Moisture Content
Hygroscopic cargoes have moisture contents which vary from parcel to
parcel of the same cargo and which vary between different cargoes. For
example, coffee, when shipped usually has a moisture content of about 8-
10% by weight; dried fruit has a moisture content when shipped of
between 20 to 30% by weight and for hides and skins the moisture
content by weight may be as high as 50%.
For any particular hygroscopic cargo having a specified moisture content
and temperature there is a value of relative humidity at which the
surrounding air will be in equilibrium. This is called the "equilibrium
relative humidity".
If the actual relative humidity of the surrounding air is below this value
then the cargo will give off moisture to the surrounding air. On the other
hand, if the actual value of the relative humidity of the surrounding air is
above the equilibrium value then the surrounding air will give off
moisture to the cargo, i.e. the cargo absorbs moisture from the
surrounding air.
Sweat
Ship's sweat is the condition which arises when condensation takes place
on a ship's structure - deck heads, ship's side, etc. - and subsequently
drips back on to underlying cargo.
Ship's sweat will result whenever the temperature of the ship's structure
comprising the cargo space is below the dewpoint temperature of the air
in the cargo space.
Example -
Consider a cargo hold surrounded by seawater that has a temperature of

is admitted to the cargo space, it will

be cooled (by contact with the steel structure of the hold) down to a

dewpoint temperature of the air and therefore condensation will occur on

the ship's structure. This is called Ship Sweat.
Cargo sweat is the condition which arises when condensation occurs on a
cargo surface. Cargo sweat will result whenever the temperature of any
cargo surface is below the dewpoint temperature of the air in the cargo
space.

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Example -
Imagine a cargo hold surrounded by sea water that has a temperature of

structure of the ship's cargo

admitted to the cargo space

what will happen?
The air that came into contact with the cargo would be cooled down to a
- it would have been cooled to below
it’s dewpoint temperature
cargo surface would appear. This is cargo sweat.
The air coming into contact with the steel structure of the ship's hold

not cooled to below its dewpoint temperature and so there would be no

ship sweat.
Ventilation Procedure
The basic rule for preventing sweat is:
- continue ventilation if the dew point outside is lower or equal to that of
the hold dew point;
- Do not ventilate with outside air if the dew point outside is higher than
the hold dew point.
Recommended Procedure for Moisture Control
1. Measure the dewpoint and temperature of the outside air.
2. Ventilate the cargo space, unless the estimated cargo temperature is
lower than the dewpoint of the outside air.
3. Shortly afterwards measure the dewpoint of the air leaving the cargo
space to ensure that it shows a dewpoint that is higher than the dewpoint
of air entering. If the dewpoint is in fact higher then it indicates that
moisture is being removed from the cargo space.
4. Repeat Step 3 at regular intervals to ensure that moisture is still being
removed.
5. At longer intervals, re-check the dewpoint of the outside air to provide
a new basis for comparison.
6. If at any time, it is found that moisture is no longer being removed
from the cargo space, then it will be useless and perhaps damaging to
continue ventilating. Under these conditions it is best to restrict
ventilation.
Following the above procedure will eliminate the possibility of ship's
sweat and cargo sweat when non-hygroscopic cargoes are carried.
If a compartment has to be ventilated using natural means, remember that
air in an enclosed compartment tends to flow in the opposite direction to
direction of air flow outside the compartment. Figure (a.16) shows the
arrangement of ventilators to take advantage of this fact.

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Figure (a.16) Natural Ventilation

Preparation for Refrigerated Cargo
Reefer Ships:
- Ensure that the space is clean and free of odours and microorganisms. If
necessary, remove and renew the affected portions of the insulation and
dunnage.
- Run fans in both directions to clear smells and dust from the air
trunkings.
- Clean and test bilges and scuppers. Seal U-bend vapour traps with brine.
- Place clean dunnage in a manner that will ensure adequate air
circulation under, around and through the cargo as required.
- Check thermometers, gas sampling points, fire detection and
extinguishing equipment.
- Inspect any pipes passing through the space for leakage.
- Ensure that all closing arrangements and doors to the space are working
efficiently.
- Cool the space down to slightly below the carrying temperature and
maintain this temperature for at least 24 hours.
Container Ships:
- Record internal temperatures of the container before it is loaded and
reject it if the temperature is too high. This is frequently done by
observation of the container thermograph.
- Cheek the container/ship coupling system, ie. either electrical or cold air
supply.
- In the case of cold air supply check couplings not in use to ensure no
leakage of cold air.
- When coupling has been made make certain the joint is correct and that
cooling commences.
- The temperature control and monitoring system should be checked to
ensure it is working.
Cargo Securing Manual

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A major cause of cargo damage is the insufficiency of securing to prevent

cargo movement in a seaway. The IMO Code of Safe Practice for Cargo
Stowage and Securing requires a Cargo Securing Manual to be provided
on all ships other than cellular cargo ships

Contents of the Cargo Securing Manual

1. Details of fixed cargo securing arrangements and their location.
Where provided:
- fixed securing facilities on bulkheads, web frames, stanchions etc and
their types eg. pad eyes, eye bolts etc, including their strength
- fixed securing facilities on deck and their types eg. elephant's foot,
container fitting apertures etc, including their strength
- fixed securing facilities on deckhead, their types and strength.
2. Location and stowage of portable securing gear
Eg. bins, racks, lockers, stores etc.
3. Details of portable cargo securing gear, inventory of items provided,
including their strength.
Where provided:
- container stacking fittings, interlocking fittings, bridge fittings etc, their
strength and use
- chains, wires, rods etc, their strength and use
- tensioners eg. turnbuckles, chain tensioners etc, their strength and use
- securing gear for cars and other vehicles, their strength and use
- trestles and jacks etc for vehicles, including their strength and use
- anti-skid material
4. Correct application of portable securing gear on various cargo units,
vehicles and other entities carried on board a ship.
Guidance as to the recommended location, method of stowing and
securing containers, trailers and other cargo-carrying vehicles, palletised
cargoes, unit loads and single cargo items (eg pulp, paper rolls etc),
heavyweight cargoes, cars and other vehicles. These are minimum
requirements.
The following factors should be taken into account when applying
portable securing gear :
- duration of the voyage
- geographical area of the voyage
- expected sea conditions
- size, design and characteristics of the ship
- dynamic forces under the expected weather conditions
- type of cargo units including vehicles to be carried

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- intended stowage pattern

- mass (weight) of the cargo units and vehicles.
5. Indication of the magnitude of forces expected to act on cargo units in
various positions on board the ship
- tables and diagrams outlining accelerations experienced in various
positions on the ship in adverse weather conditions
- examples of forces acting on typical cargo units under the above
mentioned accelerations
- examples of number and strength of portable securings required to
counteract the above mentioned forces
- formulae for calculating forces
- where only a limited number of cargo unit types is intended to be
carried, eg. trailers on a short sea-trade RO-RO ship, the information may
be limited to the number and disposition of securing of a given strength
required for various stowage positions and for variations in GM or roll
period.
The below is being repeated from Unit 2 and should be compared for
deletion or retention

4.4. Communication Signals

Signals indicate instruction to the driver of a crane or derrick gear for the
safety of the cargo, ship and the environment.

Signals
In order to convey an instruction to the driver of a crane or derrick gear, it
is recommended that the hatchman should use the following signals.

Union Purchase

UP
First finger
pointing. Rest of
fingers closed.
The whole hand
to be moved to
indicate upward
movement.

DOWN
Hand fully
extended. Palm
down. Move
downward.

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STOP
Hands held high.
Palms towards
driver.

DIRECTION

First finger
pointing in
direction
required. Rest
of fingers closed.
Move hand in
direction
required.

Figure 2.7 Union purchase signals

Cranes

UP
First finger pointing
up. Rest of fingers
closed. The whole
hand to be moved to
indicate upward
movement.

DOWN
Hand fully extended
palm down. Move
in downward
direction.

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STOP
Hand held high.
Palm towards driver.

DIRECTION
First finger pointing
in direction required.
Rest of fingers
closed. Move hand
in direction required.

Figure 2.8 Crane signals

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Unit summary
In this unit you learned the basics of what is involved in the cargo
handling operation. The Unit was divided into four sub-sections.
In sub-section 1, you were introduced to the different types of cargo that
Summary are carried during maritime transportation. You learnt, also, of the
different types of ships that are used in the carriage of these cargoes. You
should be able, just by a description of the packaging used, to identify the
type of cargo.
In sub-section 2, the various documents used in cargo transportation were
described. You learnt of the Bill of Lading, the Notice of Readiness, the
Cargo stowage Plan, the Cargo Manifest, the Dangerous Goods manifest,
the Delivery Order, and the Customs Document. You should be able to
describe what each of these documents is used for during the
transportation process.
Sub-section 3 dealt with pre-arrival planning. The need to prepare for the
arrival of every vessel in advance of its arrival was elaborated on in this
sub-section. Activities such as resource allocation ( providing berthing
space, appropriate equipment and the right manning levels) were
described. You also learnt, in this section, how to estimate working time
of a given vessel.
The final sub-section, dealt with the loading and off-loading operations.
You learnt how these two processes actually are conducted from a
theoretical point of view. Particular points to note are the importance of
doing the operations safely, the different hand signals that are used and
all that is involved in the practical receipt of cargo from a ship to the
dispatch of that cargo to the shore.

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Assignment
1. Describe 3 major types of cargo carried by ships?
2. What are the two main types of bulk cargo and give one example of
each?
3. Identify three classifications of IMDG Dangerous Goods?
Assignment
4. How many hazard classes of dangerous goods under the IMDG Code
are there?
5. Name three documents use in cargo operations.
6. Explain the purpose of the documents named in question 5 above.
7. What is Laytime?
8. What is Demmurage?
9. What is an arrived ship?
10. Describe two important steps you take in planning for the arrival of
the vessel?
11. Name two important factors in determining where a vessel should be
berthed?
12. Name the two most important documents that are needed to
comments discharging a vessel?
13. Name four different gears used in loading and offloading operation?
14. Describe the function of a signalman.
15. State the importance of observing safe working load in cargo
operations.
16. Why do you need dunnage prior to loading of cargo?
17. Why should heavy cargo be stowed under the ship's hold and lighter
cargo on top?

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Assessment
1. Identify the various types of cargo carried by ships and describe how
these are loaded and off-loaded.
2. You are a stevedore working on a Ro-Ro vessel in a confined space.
Assessment
Describe the precaustions you would take to avoid hazard while working.
3. You have been given a ship storage plan for a break-bulk vessel
expected at your port. Explain what you will use it for and describe the
steps involved.
4. Eplain why Cargo documentation is important in sea transportation of
cargo. Identify four of the documents and describe their purpose.
5. A vessel is working at your port and there is heavy cargo to be stored
on the vesel. Describe the factors to be considered in this operation.

6. In which type of vessels will you find each of the above gears?
7. Based on the sketches below showing hand signals, explain what each
means.

8. Explain the function of a twistlock in comtainer operations.

9. List three steps when preparing for receiving refrigerated cargo on a
vessel?
10. Explain the precautions to be taken to avoid damage when slinging
cargo.

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Case Study

Identify The Jinx

As a student of Port Operations, you have been called in to do some
CASE STUDY preliminary diagnostics at the port of Pain in the island of Paradise where
shipping agents are threatening to remove their business to a competitor
port on the other side of the island.
The situation seems hopeless to the stevedore team since the new
government has given them an ultimatum :
Get your act together or else the port will be closed down and
operations will be shifted to the competing port on the other side of the
island!
You have been asked to do some diagnostics on behalf of the stevedores.
In their hearts, the stevedores want to improve because they want to keep
their jobs. But everything seems to be going wrong for them. They feel
that they are jinxed.
You arrive at the Operations Office of the port at 0600 hrs. The phone
rings and the Operations Planner answers it.
From the trend of the conversation, you gather that a shipping agent is on
the other end and that he has told the planner that, two of his vessels will
be coming to the port today – a break-bulk vessel with 90 tonnes of
general cargo to discharge and a ro-ro vessel with 60 vehicles to
discharge and 20 to load.
The break-bulk cargo is expected at 1500 hrs. and the ro-ro vessel at 2300
hrs.
You hear the Planner telling the shipping agent that it is not necessary to
give any more information now about any vessels expected in the next
three days.
The Planner puts down the phone and then requests from the Stevedore
Foreman that, standard- sized gangs be booked to start work on the break-
bulk vessel at 1500 hrs and to start the container vessel at 2300 hrs.
You return to the port at 1430 hours and go to the quayside where a well-
organised team of stevedores seems ready to begin work.

The vessel arrives.

Pratique is over and promptly, at 1500 hrs, the stevedores mount the
gangway of the vessel in order to begin the discharge operations
but……the ship has no cranes!!! The stevedores will have to use the
port’s mobile crane to off-load the cargo.
WHERE IS THE MOBILE CRANE? The stevedores are enraged.
Doesn’t the Equipment manager know that he is supposed to have the

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crane available for situations like this one , when ships come to the port
and have no cranes?
The Equipment Manager arrives and says that he never knew that the
crane would have been needed. Nevertheless, he will make it available.
The crane arrives. Operations eventually begin at 1645 hrs. with
stevedores shouting orders from the deck of the to the crane operator
whenever they wanted him to lift, swing or lower the crane boom.
A while later the stevedores shout to the shore foreman that they will
need special gears to remove a few bundles of pipe that “appeared from
no where”. The stevedores complained that they were told that it was a
break-bulk vessel and so they never expected to see bundles of pipe. That
should be for a specialist “pipe” vessel. ‘Break-bulk is break-bulk’, they
grumbled……packages, crates, a few boxes, maybe a pallet or two, or a
skid but…..bundles of pipe??? No ! That is definitely NOT break-bulk.
And where were the slings?.............They found out that no slings were
in place.
The ro-ro vessel arrived at 2319hrs and, after about 55 minutes, began to
discharge vehicles. A new gang of stevedores are working. They move
swiftly. You see that they have on their helmets and their safety boots.
Many of them are “bare back” because thevehicles are in the lower hold
of the vessel and it is really hot and humid in that area.
Nevertheless they work quickly and within 2 hours have finished the
discharge operations.
The loading begins. Vehicles are driven on and parked neatly. The
foreman instructs that chucking may not be necessary for some smaller
vehicles ‘as long as we are sure that their brakes are working well ‘.
A short while later, a worker faints from inhalation of exhaust fumes in
the hold of the vessel and the stevedores lament disappointingly that the
port must be “jinxed” because they did “everything right” and yet
misfortune seems to be “coming their way”.
What is your diagnosis? Can you identify everything that the stevedores
did wrongly?

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Unit 4

Cargo Handling Equipment

Introduction
The Standard of maintenance in ports must keep pace with the demands
of modern plant and equipment. There are few ports in developing
countries which have managed to avoid accumulating a permanent pool
of equipment awaiting repairs. In some cases the reactivation of such
equipment would give the biggest single gain in performance that
management could achieve.
Some of the Cargo Handling Equipment are designed for use in
construction. The manufacturer tends to design for that industry’s need
producing equipment which can be used reliably and intensively
(providing it is regularly maintained) for a short life before being
scrapped.
Many port authorities through out the world own all the equipment used
in cargo handling. However, in some ports Stevedoring companies own
cargo handling equipment.
In this unit, you will learn about different types of cargo handling gear
fitted on ships approved for use onboard ships.
It is important you check with your Marine Department with reference to
National Legislation and Regulation on Cargo Handling Equipment.
Major cargo types carried by ships:
1. Bulk Solids
2. Bulk Liquids
3. Containerised
4. Roll On - Roll Off (including cars, semi-trailers and other vehicles)
5. Refrigerated
6. General or Break Bulk
Most vessels are designed to transport a particular type of cargo.
Therefore, it is essential that you should become familiar with the
different types of cargo handling equipment.

Upon completion of this unit you will be able to:

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 identify the major equipment used for stevedoring operations.

 state the limitation of different types of equipment used in cargo
handling.
Outcomes  identify markings on cargo handling equipment.
 select the most appropriate equipment for the cargo.
 use the equipment safely and effectively.
 explain the importance of proper maintenance of cargo handling
equipment.

Preventer Guy: Is a preventer wire with the correct safe working

load to secure the two derrick booms when lifting
weights from wharf to ship and vice versa.

Terminology Union purchase: When the two derrick booms are used for cargo
operation. The two derrick booms will share the
cargo weights, hence its name, so however the
weights should not exceeds its SWL (safe working
load).

Ship structure: From the keel to the uppermost continuous deck of

the vessel is call the ships hull and any structure
above that deck is call the superstructure of the
vessel

Cargo runner: Wire rope used to attach a cargo hook for lifting
cargo with emphasis of the SWL and the right
diameter for the cargo blocks.

Rig / fast: To tie up strongly using any knot

Slewing or For slewing the derrick boom to its correct

schooner guy : position for cargo operations.

Span block: Blocks at the derrick head and the Samson post for
span wire.

Span wire / topping This is the topping wire for topping and lowering
lift: of derrick boom
Gin block Cargo runner block at the derrick head
Heel block Cargo runner block at the heel of the derrick
Cargo triangle boom.
plate Where the cargo runners and the cargo hook are

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connected.

This activity should be carried out prior to starting this unit.

Visit a port and observe cargo gears available, take notes and make a list
Activity of cargo gear, their importance and functions.

1. Ships’ Lifting Equipment

Derricks
A derrick is a boom used for raising or lowering loads, pivoted at its heel,
the head of which may be swung (within the limits imposed by the heel
pivot and / or the operating machinery) in a horizontal and vertical plane.
The boom may be slewed into any position by means of guys as desired.
The operating machinery is fixed to the ship’s structure and is
independent of the boom.
Union purchase is a rig in which a pair of derricks is used in combination,
the derricks being fixed and the cargo runners being coupled in such a
way that the load may be swung from a position vertically under one
derrick to a position vertically under the second.

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Figure 4.1 Derricks rigged to “Union Purchase”

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Activity 4.2 Label the following diagram

Activity

Derrick Booms
The safe working load is indicated clearly on the derrick for single lifting
and underneath this the S.W.L (U) for union purchases working.

Figure 4.3 Swinging Derrick

The topping lift is shown as a single span with chain. Other types
consisted of a purchase between the topping block and the spider-band, or
a single span and purchase between the topping block and the deck.

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NOTE: The safe working load of the system depends upon its
weakest part.
Cranes
Many ships carry their own cargo lifting gear. There is a wide variety of
cargo handling gear available, dependant mainly upon the type of service
a vessel is designed to provide,
The sequence of changes in the kind of traffic arriving at ports, as a result
of growth and transport economics, cannot be over emphasis. The need
for a multi purpose terminal to handle both break bulk cargo and a variety
of unit loads during the transitional is important. The role of the multi
purpose terminal is to provide efficient handling facilities for the period
which may last many years when general cargo ships calling at the port
may carry a variety of cargoes transported in modern ways: containers,
flat, pre-slung cargoes, large units of iron and steel, large units of
packaged timber, as well as cars and heavy machinery.
In order to be able to handle all these cargoes efficiently, the terminal
needs to have a great variety of mechanical equipment that is required for
a conventional break-bulk terminal, and a different range of equipment
that is normal for a specialise container terminal.
The main method of ship handling is either by ship’s gear or by mobile
tower crane. No rail-mounted portal cranes are normally provided and
only one gantry crane in the first instance. The standard method of
transfer for virtually all classes of cargo is by tractor/trailer combinations,
using trailers of a size generally associated with container operation but
without corner fixing, of a low profile design, and equipped for easy
coupling and uncoupling

Pedestal Cargo Cranes

There are many varieties of cargo cranes. The most common type of
crane is one which is fixed on to a pedestal. Modern ship’s cranes rely on
Ship’s power to electrically or hydraulically operate winch drums and
slewing gear. Each crane is usually positioned to serve one or two
hatches.
Three motions are possible with pedestal cargo cranes - lifting, luffing
and slewing. Luffing is the up and down motion of the jib of the crane.
Slewing refers to the rotating sideways movement (i.e. movement in
azimuth) of the crane.

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Figure 4.4 Typical Pedestal Cargo Crane

Activity 4.4 Divide in two groups and discuss how derrick and crane
works; and explain the difference between the two. At the end of this
activity each student will write with a minimum of 150 words the results
of their discussion and his/her own views

Crane Components
1. Level luffing jib.
The jib is usually of the level-luffing type, which allows it to be raised or
lowered but ensures the weight remains at the same level until hoisted or
lowered by the lifting control. In the event of power failure each motion
of the crane will stop by the activation of automatic brakes. When not in
use the jib rests in a 'jib-cradle.

Figure 4.5 Level luffing jib

2. Limit Switches
Most lifting appliances and in particular ship's cranes have limit switches
designed to shut the crane down when it exceeds its safe working
parameters.
In normal operations when a limit switch is activated and the crane shuts
down the operator MUST NOT ATTEMPT TO CONTINUE LIFTING
until the cause is found and the condition rectified.
The most common limit switches are:

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• Maximum Hook Height Limit

• Minimum turns of wire left on the winch drum.
• Maximum jib Elevation Limit
• Ship Out-of-Trim Limit
• Dancing Roller Arrangement.

3. Maximum Hook Height Limit

This prevents hauling the hook and connecting gear through the jib head
sheave

Figure 4.6 Maximum Hook Height Limit Switch

4. Maximum Jib Elevation Limit

When the jib is angled well-up, the change in distance between jib-head
and mast-head becomes negligible. A limit stops the hauling gear
overstressing the luffing wire. In addition, a high jib elevation may allow
the load to approach unacceptably close to the crane post.
As the jib elevation decreases, the stress on the luffing wires increases.
In addition the jib is more likely to strike obstructions. A limit similar to
Maximum Jib elevation limit is used.

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Figure 4.7 Jib elevation limit switches

5. Ship - Out- of - Trim Limit

An excessive trim or list may cause the cranes' slewing motion to over-
run the slewing gear, thus damaging the gear and losing control of the
load. A sensor switch (e.g. mercury filled) activates automatically once
the limit is reached.
6. Dancing Roller Arrangement
The crane operator, positioned in a cabin in the forepart of the structure,
is unable to see the winch drums and so detect foul turns or slack runner
wire. Hence the drums are usually grooved, and an overhauling weight
(ponder ball) fitted to the runner to ensure a steady winching weight to
remove any slack when unloaded.
A device to detect runner slackness is fitted. Known as a 'Dancing Roller'
it is held against the runner by spring tension. Excessive movement (eg.
slackness in the runner) will cause limit switches to stop power.
7. Limit By-Pass
It may be necessary from time to time to by-pass limits when minimum
jib elevation limits must be exceeded, such as stowing the jib in its cradle.
Limits can be by-passed by use of a key-switch at the discretion of the
crane operator.
SWL Markings
The rated (approved) Safe Working Load (S.W.L.) of the crane must be
marked on the jib and next to it the maximum corresponding jib outreach.
Often the angle of elevation of that maximum outreach is also marked.
The cranes' arrangement details will be kept in the ship’s Rigging Plan.
These will include strength ratings and dimensions of wire rope and small
components, and working arcs and limits of the jib.

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1. Cab Controls
Activity 4.5Explain the difference between the hand signals of a derrick
and the crane. And repeat the activity 4.3

2. Safety in lifting
There is always an inherent danger whenever weights are to be lifted or
moved by means of cranes, booms, tackles, topping lifts or other
appliances due to the unevenness of the working platform and changes in
dynamic loadings on the gear. Therefore the correct and safe use of the
gear, machinery and associated hardware is of vital importance, as is its
care and maintenance.
- Stay out from under a loaded boom.
- All motion with heavy weights should be slow.
- Heavy weights should never be allowed to drop.
- Never keep a load in the air any longer than necessary.
- Avoid swinging the load. If you're lifting something off a wharf, drag it
until the load is directly under the head of the crane or boom. Do not use
the crane to drag the load.
- Attach tag lines to loads to prevent swinging.
- Avoid sudden shocks or strains, and be aware of side pulls. These put
great stress on a boom or crane.
- Never use running gear as a handhold.
- Determine weight of load and position of the centre of gravity in
relation to the lifting points.
At No Time Must The Load Exceed The Safe Working Load (SWL) Of
The Equipment In Use
- Inspect all equipment for defects before and after using
- Ensure the load is free to be lifted ie., not still bolted down or lashed,
and any loose parts secured or removed.
- Make sure there is a clear method of communication between the
operator and the signal man.
- The greatest force must be applied at the time of starting a load, in order
to overcome inertia. Apply the load gradually to avoid exceeding the
S.W.L. Check the load's balance and general security. If this is
satisfactory speed may be increased once the load is moving.
- When lowering, stop a short distance above the landing site to allow
steadying, to check position for landing, dunnage, and to make sure the
slings will not be caught under the load.

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Activity Activity: Write a brief abstract of at least 100 words of how important to
know all safety precautions prior to commencement of cargo operations.

2. Shore Lifting Equipment

Ports operate and maintain a vast range of cargo handling and other
mobile equipment and fixed plant. Which types of equipment are in use at
a particular port or terminal will, clearly, depend on the traffic handled
and on the methods of cargo handling adopted, particularly the degree of
mechanisation achieved. Trade in raw and refined bulk commodities,
both liquid and dry bulk, forms a significant role in the economies of
many countries, and port frequently undertake the handling, storage and
transfer of those materials on behalf of importers and exporters.
Containerised, roll-on-roll-off and break bulk general cargoes each
demand their own types of handling equipment. The major ranges of
equipment used, and their significance in terms of maintenance, will be
considered briefly under the headings of dry bulk trades, liquid-bulk
trades, containerisation and other unitised traffic, and break bulk cargoes.
Shore Crane
With the exception of those ports where there is a large tidal range, or
where the volume of ships and cargo transiting the port demands it the
use of shore cranes usually offers little handling advantage over the use
of ship’s gear while entailing heavy capital expenditure and additional
maintenance problems. For smaller ports where the volume of traffic is
limited and the size of the ships calling the ports are relatively small the
more prudent and sensible decision would be to rely on ships crane and
mobile land cranes rather that incurring the major expense associated
with the purchase and maintenance of expensive ship to shore gantry
cranes. It should be recognized however that larger modern ships are
concentrating more and more on cargo carrying capacity rather than on
providing ship's gear to handle cargo. If a port has ambitions to become
more than a domestic operation therfore investments in ship to shore
gantry cranes is inevitable.
If conventional rail-mounted quay cranes are not to be provided, a small
number of mobile cranes on pneumatic tyres will be needed to lift heavy
items including containers carried on deck. If the volume of containers or
heavy cargo being transported is minimal then , these special cranes will
be needed for only a fraction of the ships working time but with
containers becoming the most popular means of transporting general
cargo the need for these type of equipment is growing. When not required
however , they can supplement the mobile cranes working in open
storage areas. These heavy mobile cranes with high towers for ship
working are less expensive as conventional quay cranes, and much more
flexible.

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Figure: 4.9 Shore crane

Shore Mobile Cranes

The main method of ship handling in most small ports is either by ship’s
gear or shore mobile crane, . No rail mounted portal cranes are normally
provided and only one gantry crane is usually introduced in the first
instance. The standard method of transfer for virtually all classes of cargo
is by tractor/trailer combination, using trailers of a size generally
associated with container operations.

Figure: 4.10. Shore mobile crane

Hoppers & Conveyor Belts

Dry-bulk installation have specialised grabbing cranes or continuous
unloaders linked by conveyors belt to silos, sheds or open storage areas.
At the storage point the equipment is needed for receiving and stacking
cargo, retrieved and loading it to the ship, rail, or road transport, and

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possibly for bagging it before despatch. Such systems are often required
to work continuously in a harsh environment for long period with the
minimum of maintenance. Highly automated, integrated berth handling
system, link ship loading/discharging directly to storage areas, feeder
vessels and inland transport, handle many thousands of tonnes per
working hour, and are designed tokeep ship’s turn round time to a
minimum.

73
Figure 4.11 Grap and Hopper

Pipe Lines
Like dry-bulk terminals, the pipeline system and pumping stations linking
the tankers to the extensive tanks farms are in constant use for very long
periods, and for maintenance is difficult. The commodities handled vary
from the relatively innocuous palm oils and molasses to the highly
corrosive liquid fertilisers and the very inflammable petrochemicals and
other liquid chemicals. Segregation of cargoes is a particular operational
problem, and special maintenance problems are posed by such relatively
new practices as single-buoy moorings for large tankers, involving off
shore pumping and long pipelines to bring the liquid ashore.

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Figure: 4.12 Pipe Lines

3. Cargo Moving Equipment

The most important development in the shipping industry has been
specialisation, with the conventional general cargo liner or tramp vessel
rapidly being replaced by a range of new ship designs, each carrying a
particular commodity or type of packaging.
When traditional handling methods are used in conventional break-bulk
operations, the equipment allocated for the transfer of cargo to and from
the quayside is often insufficient to permit the transfer operation to keep
up with the hoisting of loads in orout of the ship's hold. This is
demonstrated by the frequent sight of a stationary crane or derrick
waiting for a load to be hooked on or off.
Cargo moving equipment operators shall be qualified and licensed to
operate the equipment before he/she is allowed to operate the
equipment.
Forklifts
A heavy duty forklift truck with a capacity of 42 tonnes and a top-lift
spreader is capable of stacking fully loaded 40ft containers two or three
high, with the most common stacking height of two high. A side spreader
can be used for 20ft containers both full and empty, and for 40ft empties.
Empty containers can be stacked four high. Most port authorities and
cargo handling companies have experience in both the operation and
maintenance of forklift trucks. Such trucks can transfer containers from
the ship’s side to the stacking area.

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43

Figure: 4.13 Forklifts

Straddle Carrier
At the moment, the straddle carrier system is the predominant one.
Straddle-Carriers can stack containers two to three high, move them
between quay crane and storage area, and load or unload them to or from
road transport. Safe operation demanded that straddle carriers should
operate within a restricted area and that workers on foot should be kept
out of the working area. The fact that despite these drawbacks the
straddle carrier is so widely used is a testimony to its flexibility and its
ability to meet peak demand.

26
Figure: 4.14 Straddle carriers

Tractor/Trailer
Transfer and stacking operations are carried out with large variety of
equipment. The tractor will have the ability to haul a fixed load up a
specified gradient at a certain speed, as well as a port-adapted, heavy duty
fifth wheel to allow crossing ramp connections. The import containers
discharged from the ship by crane are placed on a road trailer, which is
towed by the tractor head to an assigned position in the storage area.

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34

Figure: 4.15 Tractor trailer

Gantry Crane
Gantry cranes may be on rubber tyres, which allow them to move to
another task at a different part of the site. It can also be used in the
container yard, where they combine the mobility of straddle carriers,
although slower, with the wide span and height of the ship-to-shore
gantry-crane. Rubber-tyre gantry-cranes can normally stack containers
two to three high. This system is economical in land because of the high
stacking, and is suitable for varying degrees of automation.

Figure: 4.16 Gantry Crane 28

Activity: The entire container handling system was discussed in this

section. The essential features of each of them was also mentioned.
Explain in details the four most commonly used container handling
methods in operation today. There can also be various combinations of
Activity
these type of equipment, describe

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4. Cargo Handling Gears

Spreaders
The introduction of the container has resulted in the weight of unit lifts
increasing. This has had a major impact on the type of equipment needed
in ports. Instead of level-luffing or slewing dockside cranes, spreaders are
fitted to the crane to lift containers. Gantry Cranes are specially designed
for container traffic. Spreaders are mounted on rotating tables so that
containers can be aligned straight into the stack. Ports and operators
equip their fork-lift trucks with top-lift or side-lift spreader beams. The
use of these attachments for container movement by fork-lift trucks
removes the risk of damage by forks.

Hydraulic telescopic
spreader

Twin hydraulic
spreader

Figure: 4.17 (c)

Mechanical
spreader

23

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Activity 4.8 This activity requires a visit to a port facility if there is

no vessel with a gantry crane available, Identify three types of spreader
used for loading, discharging and stacking containers.

Slings
Slings are used for assisting with a lift. They are generally
shackled to or wound around a load to assist the lift. They can be made
from:
- Fibre rope;
- Web slings;
- Wire rope;
- Chain.

Fibre Rope Sling

Advantages:
- lifts without scratching;
- protects load surfaces;
- flexible.

Figure: 4.18 Typical fibre rope slings are shown above.

Web Slings
Web Slings are made of synthetic materials like polypropylene or similar
materials. It has a superior strength to rope slings and the advantage of
wider band than Rope, Wire and Chain Slings which help protect the load
from the sling damaging the Load when the slings start to take up the
weight of the Load.

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Figure: 4.19 Examples of

Web Slings.

Check the Safe Working Load of the sling before using.

Wire Slings
Steel wire rope slings are more suitable for lifting machinery or material
that will cut easily into fibre ropes. Size for size they are much stronger
than fibre rope slings but are more expensive.

Figure:4.20 Wire rope slings

Check the Safe Working Load of the sling before using.

Chain Slings
Chain slings are stronger than both wire and fiber rope, and are often
used in combination with them, especially the two, three and four legged
variety, when lifting bulky loads and machinery.

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The 'Collar' sling can have different sized end links so that one may be
rove through the other to act as a Choke Hitch.

Figure:4.21 Chain Slings

Activity 4.9 Collect all slings (wire/ropes) at your facility and identify its
validity from its certificate in the cargo register book.

Hooks, Blocks and Shackles

These are equipment used for lifting of cargo and
care should be taken to check the equipment before it
is used for cargo operation by checking the condition
of the equipment and checking the SWL (Safe
Working Load) and check the equipment after cargo
operation. If any defects found on the first check or
the second check, then that piece of equipment shall
be removed and a report shall be given to the

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stevedore foreman.

figure: 4.22
Hooks & Blocks

Shackles
Shackles are used to connect objects: one wire to another, a sling to a
load, a hook to a block or a hook to a wire rope eye. They are usually
made of forged alloy steel, high tensile steel, or mild steel. The nominal
size of a shackle is given by the diameter of the material in the shackle
body.

Loading on a Shackle
When using a shackle the load shall be on a straight line not on an angle,
as this will distort (twist or bend) the shackle.

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Types of Shackles

Bow shackles “D” shackles

The Bow shackles are used when there are more than 2 sling eyes are
attached to the shackle. See below for the applications of the load on a
Bow shackle

Other types of shackles are usually named in relation to the pin type.
Forelock - used for standing rigging, or where vibration is present. If the
pin is unthreaded, it has a flat split pin as a keeper to keep the shackle’s
pin in place.

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Figure 23: A Forelock “D” shackle.

Forklift Adaptor
These are attachments that are interchangeable with the Forklift’s forks.
These attachments will be used according to the type of cargo to be
handled. (See below for the different adaptors used on Forklifts)

26

27

28
30

Figure:4.24 Forklifts Adaptors

Personnel Cages (PC)

P.C used to transport stevedores to and from container on the ship to lock
and unlock twist locks and take off twist locks from top of containers to

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be discharge or put twist locks on top of containers where other

containers are to be loaded on top of it.

Figure: 4.25 Personnel Cages

Activity 4.10 Explain in your own words two important ways of using
personal cages in cargo operation.
This is already documented may be able to use pictures
Twist locks
Device used on the bottom corners of the containers to lock containers to
another container or on to the deck to prevent movement of container
from the designated slots.

Figure 4.26 Twistlocks

Lashing Equipment
1. Lashing bars, Turn buckles and lashing hooks
Lashing bars, Turn buckles and lashing hooks are pieces of equipment
designed specifically for lashing of containers. (See below pictures)

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Figure: 4.27 Lashing bars, Turn buckles and Lashing hooks.

2. Web Lashing:
Web lashing are used for lashing of cars and other items that requires non
abrasive lashing gears.

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Figure 4.28 Typical Web Lashing gear

3. Lashing Chains
Chains are used to lash heavy cargoes and any other cargo requiring
strong lash equipment.

19

Figure 29: Lashing chains and tensioner.

Tensioners
Tensioners are levers or Turn buckles used to pull the Lashing Chains
when lashing cargo. (See
below for different types of
tensioner)

Figure 30: Typical Lashing Chains

Tensioner
Activity 4.10 Explain why it is important to keep the container intact and
secured, from the loading port to the discharging port.

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5. Limitations of Cargo Handling Equipment

Limitation of Spreaders
- Safe Working Load (SWL) of the spreader shall not be exceeded when
using it.
- Spreaders shall only be used for lifting containers and shall not be used
for any other operation.
- Do not put loose equipment on top of the spreader as it might fall on
somebody.
- Susceptible to mechanical, electrical or hydraulic breakdowns.
- Requires checks before and after use.
- Requires regular maintenance.
Limitations of Slings
- SWL of the Sling shall not be exceeded when using it.
- The angle between parts of the sling shall not be greater than 120°.e]
- The angle between parts of the sling shall not be greater than 120°.
- Susceptible to wear and tear of normal operations.
- Requires regular checks for defects before and after use.
- Limitations of Hooks
-SWL of the hook shall not be exceeded when using it.
- Hooks can easily be over crowded when using more than 2 slings.
- Hooks are heavy, do not drop hooks on cargo or equipment or
personnel.
- Susceptible to wear and tear of normal operations.
- Requires regular checks for defects before and after use.
- Requires regular maintenance.

Limitations of Forklifts Adaptors

- SWL of the adaptor and Forklift shall not be exceeded when using it.
Use the adaptor as it is designed to do. Do not use it for any other
operation other then it was designed to do. Means different cargoes
different adaptors.
- Only one cargo per adaptor not multiple cargo per adaptor.
- Susceptible to mechanical, hydraulic or electrical breakdowns.
- Requires checks for defects before and after use.
- Requires regular maintenance.
Limitations of Personnel Cages
- SWL of the cage shall not be exceeded when using it.

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- Use the cage for carrying personnel only not for anything else.
- Susceptible to normal wear and tear of normal use.
- Requires regular checks for defects before and after use.
- Requires regular Maintenance.
Limitations of Twist locks
- Twist lock levers if broken there is no use for the twist lock.
- Twist locks has both left hand and right hand locking so easy to mix
both type together and create problems when locking or unlocking.
People who are checking whether the twist lock is locked or not are
unsure of the condition of the twist lock. ]
- Susceptible to normal wear and tear of normal use.
- Regular check for defects.
- Requires regular maintenance.
Limitations of Lashing Equipments
- Use the right Lashing equipment to the right cargo is very important for
the effectiveness of the lashing.
- Use right tension on the lashing is very important in keeping cargo in
place and not moving while the ship is in transit.
- Susceptible to normal wear and tear.]
- Regular checks for defects before and after use.
- Regular maintenance required.
Limitations of Cranes
- SWL of the crane shall not be exceeded when using it.
- Right attachment shall be use for the right cargo or else the crane or the
cargo will be damaged.
- Excessive swinging of the cargo can affect the operation of the crane or
even damage the slewing gear.
- Do not apply sudden load shock on the crane runners it break the runner
or any part of the lifting gears.
- Only one move at a time per crane.
- Susceptible to electrical and hydraulic breakdowns.
- Requires regular checks for defects before and after use.
- Requires regular maintenance. ]
Limitations of Forklifts
- SWL of the Forklift shall not be exceeded.
- Use the right adaptor for the right cargo, never use the wrong adaptor as
this might cause an accident.
- Do not over load forklift this might cause the forklift to loose steering.
- Unstable when lifting cargo high up, easily tip over.

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- Susceptible to normal wear and tear.

- Check for defects before and after use.
- Requires regular maintenance.
Limitations of Trailers
- SWL shall not be exceeded.
- If containers are not loaded on to the trailer properly it might cause
damage to the trailer framings or the trailer might tip over causing an
accident.
- Susceptible to normal wear and tear.
- Check for defects before and after use.
- Require regular maintenance.

6. Safety and Maintenance of Cargo Handling Equipment

Safety while operating cranes - Revisited
- All motion with heavy weights should be slow.
- Heavy weights should never be allowed to drop.
- Never keep a load in the air any longer than necessary.
- Avoid swinging the load. If you're lifting something off a wharf, drag it
until the load is directly under the head of the crane or boom. Do not use
the crane to drag the load.
- Attach tag lines to loads to prevent swinging.
- Avoid sudden shocks or strains, and be aware of side pulls. These put
great stress on a boom or crane.
- Do not rush the moving of cargo as this will cause an accident.
- Only one signal man to direct the crane driver so as not to confuse the
crane driver.
- Check for defects before and after use.
Safety while operating Forklifts
- Do not stand on the forks of the Forklifts while it is moving.
- Do not stand under the fork of the Forklift while it has cargo on its
forks.
- Do not lift the fork of the Forklift too high while carrying cargo on the
fork as this will make the forklift unstable.
- Do not exceed the SWL (Safe Working Load) of the forklift as this will
cause the forklift tip forward causing the forklift to loose control.
- Do not ride on the forklift especially when the forklift is working cargo.
The forklift was design to carry only 1 person not more.

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- Do not drive the forklift at high speed, as the forklift is a heavy vehicle
can cause a lot of damage if is involved in an accident.
- Check for defects before and after use.

Safety while operating Tractor Trailers

Do not exceed the SWL of the Trailer as this will bend the frames on the
trailer or the tyres might burst and the tractor will have difficulty in trying
to tow the trailer or the tractor and trailer might flip over on its side.
- Do not ride on the trailer as the trailer was not designed for joy rides
and you might fall and hurt yourself.
- Make sure the trailer is secured properly to the tractor.
- No one is to ride in the tractor driver’s cab other then the driver.
- Do not drive tractor and trailer at high speed as the tractor and trailer are
heavy equipment and it has a high centre of gravity and it is not wide
enough, it can cause the tractor trailer to tip over when turning in high
speed or have an accident.
Check for defects before and after use.
Safety on using Cargo handling equipments
1. Safety in slinging
Safe slinging of loads depends on:
(a) having slings with the correct SWL;
(b) Connecting the load securely to the lifting point;
(c) Keeping the load safe when suspended.
Under NO circumstances must the angle between the parts of a sling
exceed 120°

120o
Max angle
between legs

Figure: 4.31 Maximum angle between the sling legs.

- Where a sling assembly is marked with a SWL this relates to angles up
to 90 0 and in general this angle should NOT be exceeded.
- Thoroughly inspect slings for damage before and after use. Store in
suitable place where damage cannot occur.
- Too many sling eyes on a hook is dangerous. Use a shackle or ring.

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- When slinging a load, pack between slings and load at all points where
load has sharp corners, so as to prevent damage to slings.
- Do NOT attempt to adjust packings or slings when the crane is
tightening the load; fingers and other parts of the body are to be kept
clear.
- Stand well clear from under a load. Do NOT approach it until you can
reach it.
Safety on using Lashing Equipment
Faults in rope sling can easily be identified by visual examination of the
rope sling itself.
- Do not exceed SWL of rope.
- Check for defects before and after use.
- Keep any synthetic ropes indoors or shade away from the sun as the sun
deteriorates synthetic materials.
- Do not spill chemicals on the rope as the chemical will damage the
slings.
- Keep the rope in a dry cool place so humidity won’t damage the ropes.
- Coil ropes after use for ease of storage.
Safety and care of Web Lashing
Web Lashings are used for lashing of cars and any cargo that requires non
abrasive lashing material.
- Do not exceed SWL of Web sling.
- Check for defects before and after use.
- Do not spill chemicals on the rope slings as the chemical will damage
the slings.
- Keep Web lashings indoors or shade away from the sun as the sun
deteriorates synthetic materials which the Web lashings are made of.
- Keep the rope in a dry cool place so humidity won’t damage the
Tensioners of the Web lashings.
- Roll up the Web lashings and remove the tensioners for ease of storage.

Safety and Care of Chains

Faults in chain are not easily seen and should be examined frequently for
wastage due to:
- rust;
- cracks;
- distortion.
- Do Not cross, twist, knot or kink a chain.
- Do Not drag from under a load.
- Do Not use around sharp corners, without protective padding.

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- Do Not use bolts or 'bull-dogs' for joining or shortening.

- Do Not use if over 10% wear in links.
- Do Not use if links are elongated.
- Do Not use any chain for slinging unless it has the approved S.W.L.
tags.
- Do Not make up a sling assembly from separate components, unless you
are sure which components are the correct ones.
Chains of mild steel should be checked for the flexing or bending of
links. Damage to links where a chain has been used around sharp edges,
causing cuts or nicks, is a good reason for condemning.
High tensile and alloy chain have great ability to stretch under shock
loads and revert to normal size. If elongation is apparent while not under
load, it has been seriously overloaded and should be discarded.
General Safety during Cargo Operations
1. Safety in lifting - Revisited
Cautions in Lifting operations
There is always an inherent danger whenever weights are to be lifted or
moved by means of cranes, booms, tackles, topping lifts or other
appliances due to the unevenness of the working platform and changes in
dynamic loadings on the gear. Therefore the correct and safe use of the
gear, machinery and associated hardware is of vital importance, as is its
care and maintenance.
- Stay out from under a loaded boom.
- All motion with heavy weights should be slow.
- Heavy weights should never be allowed to drop.
- Never keep a load in the air any longer than necessary.
- Avoid swinging the load. If you're lifting something off a wharf, drag it
until the load is directly under the head of the crane or boom. Do not use
the crane to drag the load.
- Attach tag lines to loads to prevent swinging.
- Avoid sudden shocks or strains, and be aware of side pulls. These put
great stress on a boom or crane.
- Never use running gear as a handhold.
- Determine weight of load and position of the centre of gravity in
relation to the lifting points.
At No Time Must The Load Exceed The Safe Working Load (SWL) Of
The Equipment In Use
- Inspect all equipment for defects before and after using
- Ensure the load is free to be lifted ie., not still bolted down or lashed,
and any loose parts secured or removed.
- Make sure there is a clear method of communication between the
operator and the signal man.

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- The greatest force must be applied at the time of starting a load, in order
to overcome inertia. Apply the load gradually to avoid exceeding the
S.W.L. Check the load's balance and general security. If this is
satisfactory speed may be increased once the load is moving.
- When lowering, stop a short distance above the landing site to allow
steadying, to check position for landing, dunnage, and to make sure the
slings will not be caught under the load.

Unit summary
In this unit you learned about some of the basic Cargo Handling Gears
which you will be using when you complete this course.
You can now be able to identify, use and explain some of the care and
Summary maintenance of the basic Cargo Handling gears to prolong its life and
avoid extravagant expenses on repair work.

Remember: “Your safety is your first priority when it

comes to cargo handling equipment”

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Assignment 1
1. Identify the equipment used for stevedoring work
- equipment:
- Derricks

Assignment - Union purchase

- Cargo runners
- Heel pivot
2. Correct demonstration of Hand signals or “ Union Purchase”
- Up
- Down
- Stop
- Direction
3. Identify the Safe Working Load (S.W.L) for the following:
- Derrick booms
- Cranes
- Pedestal Cargo Cranes
- Ship’s traveling gantry crane
- Bulk solid self discharger
4. Identify the following cranes components and limits:
- Level luffing
- Limit switches
Limit Switches Range:
- Maximum hook height limit
- Maximum jib elevation limit
- Ship out-of-trim limit
- Dancing roller arrangement

- Limit by-pass
5. Identify the markings on the equipment
The rated (approved Safe Working Load (S.W.L) of the crane must be
marked on the jib with the maximum jib outreach:
- The crane’s arrangement Details in the Ship’s Rigging Plan
- Strength ratings and dimensions of wire rope

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- Working arcs and limits of the jib.

6. Identify cab layouts according to crane types
- Familiarize with jib and runner controls, alarms, by-pass switches and
location of emergency stop button.
7. Demonstrate the correct crane hand signals that a crane operator
must be familiar with during cargo operation:
- Up & jib up
- Down & jib down
- Stop
- Direction
8. State the correct and safe use of these lifting gears and
machineries:- Cranes, Booms, Tackles, Topping lifts etc..
- Stay out from under a loaded boom
- All motion with heavy weights should be slow
- Heavy weights should never be allowed to drop
- Never keep a load in the air any longer than necessary
- Avoid swinging the load.
If you’re lifting something Off a wharf, drag it until the load is directly
under the head of the crane or boom. Do not use the crane to drag the
load.
- Attach tag lines to loads to prevent swinging
- Avoid sudden shocks or strains, and be aware of side pulls
- Never use running gear as a handhold.

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Assessment 2
SHORE LIFTING EQUIPMENT:
Identify what these equipment are:
Assessment - Portainers
- Shore Mobile Crane
- Hoppers and conveyor Belts
Identify the Safe Working Load of these equipment:
- Portainers
- Shore Mobile Crane
- Hoppers and Conveyor Belts.
Find out Rate of Discharge & Loading
- Portainers
- Shore Mobile Crane
- Hoppers and Conveyor Belts.

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Assessment 3
CARGO MOVING EQUIPMENT:
Identify what these moving equipment do in cargo operation ;
Assessment - Forklift
- Straddlers
- Tractor trailer
- Containers stackers
- Gantry crane
Does these cargo moving equipment have the authority to uplift any
cargo weights etc;
- Forklift
- Straddlers
- Tractor trailer
- Containers stackers

Assessment 4
4.4 CARGO HANDLING GEARS
Who approved these cargo handlings gears before it is used for cargo
Assessment operation;
- Spreader
- Slings
- Hooks
- Forklift adaptors
- Personnel cage
- Twist locks
- Lashing equipment
During the absent of a port state inspector to do the survey of the above
gears, which other authorized organization can you hire or contracted to
survey the above cargo gears.

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Assessment 5
4.5 LIMITATION OF CARGO HANDLING
EQUIPMENTS.
Assessment Why are limitations on these cargos handling equipment?
How do you identify these limitations on these cargo handling gears.
How often do you inspect these cargo handling gears.

Assessment 6
4.6 SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE
Who is responsible for safety of cargo equipment on the ship?
Assessment How often does the cargo handling equipment on the ship, surveyed
How often does the cargo handling gears on the dockyard, surveyed?

Students Name : ____________________________

Date : ____________________________
Assessor : _____________________________
Checked by : _____________________________

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Unit 5

Maritime Security
Introduction
In today’s world, security is everyone’s business. Although the Maritime
Industry like all other industries was mindful of security it was the events
in the United States of America on 11 September 2001 that propelled the
focus on security to the level that it is today
After these attacks, the United Nations called on the international
community to redouble its efforts to prevent and suppress terrorist acts,
including full implementation of all anti terrorist Conventions.
Simultaneously, the Secretary General of the International Organization
(IMO) proposed to the Member States that the Organization should
review, as a matter of utmost urgency, all of its Conventions and other
instruments that have a bearing on the prevention and suppression of
unlawful acts, including terrorism, which may affect the safety and
security of shipping and port operations
The proposal was made because terrorist acts against shipping and ports
for example, the use of a gas tanker as an explosive device in a major port
city, an attack on a large cruise ship, or the explosion or deliberate
sinking of vessels in canals or heavily trafficked shipping lanes would
have enormous commercial, environmental and public health
consequences. Moreover, such incidents could have a significantly
adverse impact, for a considerable period of time, on the transportation of
the world's trade, over 90% of which is carried by merchant ships and
passes through ports, and therefore on the global economy.
In the Maritime Industry maritime security is focus particularly in the
area where the interface occurring between the ship and the port facility
takes place. At the center of this ship/port interface is the cargo
operations carried out by stevedores.
This unit is designed to teach the stevedore about maritime security
affiliated with his functions at the port facility. Each individual will learn
about maritime security as it relates to the duties and responsibilities of a
stevedore.

Upon completion of this unit you will be able to:

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 explain the maritime security threat levels required under the

international ship and port facility security (isps) code..
 describe the security responsibilities of the major stakeholders
Outcomes surrounding ship and port facility cargo operations..
 demonstrate the procedures governing security reporting and record
keeping..
 explain the security requirements in dealing with the various types of
cargo handling operations.


ISPS Code: International Ship and Port Facility Security Code

means the International Code for the Security of
Ships and of Port Facilities consisting of part A
(the provisions of which shall be treated as
Terminology mandatory) and part B (the provisions of which
shall be treated as recommendatory), as adopted,
on 12 December 2002, by resolution 2 of the
Conference of Contracting Governments to the
International Convention for the Safety of Life at
Sea, 1974 as may be amended by the Organization.

Ship/port interface: the interactions that occur when a ship directly and
immediately affected by actions involving the
movement of persons, goods, or the provisions of
port services to or from the ship

Port Facility: a location, as determined by the Contracting

Government where the ship/port interface takes
place. This includes areas such as anchorages,
waiting berths and approaches from seaward, as
appropriate.

Security Incident: any suspicious act or circumstance threatening the

security of a ship, including a mobile offshore
drilling unit and a high-speed craft, or of a port
facility or of any ship/port interface or any ship-to-
ship activity.

Security Level: the qualification of the degree of risk that a

security incident will be attempted or will occur.

Declaration of an agreement reached between a ship and either a

Security: port facility or another ship with which it
interfaces, specifying the security measures each
will implement.

Port Facility a plan developed to ensure the application of

Security Plan: measures designed to protect the port facility and
ships, persons, cargo, cargo transport units and

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ship's stores within the port facility from the risks

of a security incident.

Ship Security Plan: a plan developed to ensure the application of

measures on board the ship designed to protect
persons on board, cargo, cargo transport units and
ship's stores within the port facility from the risks
of a security incident.

Ship Security the person on board the ship, accountable to the

Officer: master, designated by the Company as responsible
for the security of the ship, including
implementation and maintenace of the ship
security plan, and for liaison with the company
security officer and the port facility security
officers

Port facility the person designated as responsible for the

Secuirty Officer: development, implementation, revision and
maintenance of port facility security plan and for
liaison with the ship security officers and the
company security officers.

Company Security the person designated by the company for ensuring

Officer: that a ship security assessment is carried out; that a
ship security plan is developed, submitted for
approval, and thereafter implemented and
maintained, and for liaison with port facility
security officers and the ship security officer.

1.ISPS Familiarization Training

Historical Perspective
Since the terrorist attacks in the United States on 11 September 2001, the
world has a heightened sense of security awareness. The maritime
industry is no longer considered a safe, non political, global
transportation system that moves goods by sea harmlessly from one place
to another. Instead it is now viewed as a liability that exposes all nations,
maritime and non maritime alike, to the threat of terrorist attack.
Following these events, the International Maritime Organization (IMO)
adopted in December 2002 a number of amendments to the 1974 Safety
of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS). The most far-reaching regulation
enshrines the new International Ship and Port Facility Security Code
(ISPS Code), which contains detailed security-related requirements for
Governments, port authorities and shipping companies in a mandatory
section (Part A), together with a series of guidelines about how to meet
these requirements in a second, non-mandatory section (Part B). The
requirements in the ISPS Code are identical for ships and port facilities.

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The ISPS Code was established to provide a standardized, consistent

framework for evaluating risk, enabling governments to offset changes in
threat with changes in vulnerability for ships and port facilities. As a
result, all activities around a ship and port facility, including stevedoring,
must adhere to security standards that meet international expectations.
Maritime Security Threats
Traditionally, there are six (6) maritime security threats that affect every
port and every vessel in varying degrees. They are as follows: -
Pilferage & Theft
Illicit Drug Smuggling
Illegal Migrants & Stowaways
Armed Robbery
Piracy
Sabotage
Recognition and Detection of Weapons, Dangerous Substances and
Devices
The following are examples of weapons which may be shipped illegally.

Figure 5.1.3a A-K 47 Rifle

Figure 5.1.3b

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Package Bomb
Figure 5.1.3c

Grenade Launcher
Figure 5.1.3d

Handguns/Rifles - AK-47, M16

UZI submachine guns
Grenade Launcher
Package Bomb
Pipe Bomb
Nonmetallic knives
Dynamite
Explosive Components
Explosives with nails
Weapons of mass destruction (WMDs)
Techniques Used to Circumvent (Avoid) Security Measures
Even though security measures and equipment may be in place they are
still subject to human error and malfunction. It is possible that faulty
alarm systems, broken locks, and radio jamming may not be coincidental.

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They may in fact be intentional acts used to distract and confuse

individuals. Below are some other techniques used to circumvent
security measures:
Electrical Outages
Loss of Communications
New Employees
False Identification
Excessive Innocence
False Distress
Overt Acts of Diversion
Maritime Security Levels
The ISPS Code identifies three security levels which are applicable to
both ships and port facilities.
Level One: - Ships and Port Facilities operate at ISPS Level 1 during
normal day-to-day operations. This is the lowest level, where minimum
security measures should be maintained at all times.
Level Two: - Ships and Port Facilities move to ISPS Level 2 if a threat
is likely. This occurs when information has been gathered suggesting
that there is a possible threat. Level 2 includes all measures from level
one and additional security measures as a result of a heightened security
level decided by the government.
Level Three: - Ships and Port Facilities move to ISPS Level 3 if a threat
is imminent. This occurs when information has been gathered suggesting
that a security incident is probable or imminent. Level 3 includes all
measures from level one and two and additional measures as a result of a
heightened security level decided by the government.
Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP)
The ISPS Code requires that both ships and port facilities have a security
plan. The security plan for the port facility directly relates to the
stevedore in the performance of his duties.
Preparation of an effective PFSP will rest on a thorough assessment of all
issues that relate to the security of the port facility, including, a thorough
appreciation of the physical and operational characteristics of the
individual port facility.
Contracting Governments should develop procedures to assess the
continuing effectiveness of each PFSP and may require amendment of the
PFSP prior to its initial approval or subsequent to its approval. The PFSP
should make provision for the retention of records of security incidents
and threats, reviews, audits, training, drills and exercises as evidence of
compliance with those requirements.
The primary components of the PFSP that are required to be addressed in
dealing with ISPS compliance at port facilities are:
Access to the port facility
Restricted areas within the port facility

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Handling of cargo
Handling of ship’s stores
Handling unaccompanied baggage; and
Monitoring the security of the port facility
Handling of Cargo is the primary component which directly affects the
stevedores. However, Access to the port facility and restricted areas
within the port facility is also important for stevedores.
Access to the Port Facility
Access Control: Operational Security Measures
Operational Security consists of the actual activities carried out by the
security personnel; these include:
security patrols
random searches
visitor processing
identification checks
communications
cargo inspection
investigations
drills and exercises
In addition, vehicle access points must be monitored by Security Guards.
All employees are required to wear visible badges at all times within the
port facility or aboard a ship. Access will be denied to anyone who
refuses to identify him or herself to the port or ship security officer.
Stevedores must comply with all access control procedures by the port
and ship, this includes being challenged by and submitting to random
searches by security personnel.
All employees, including longshoremen, stevedores, ship representatives,
etc, must have their I D badges provided by the company or port
authority, the team leader may sign in/out the whole crew. The gangway
watch and stevedore team leader would verify the entry/exit using the
approved access list.
All visitors with special passes must be readily identified by visibly
displaying their visitor pass at all times. All employees should report any
person in the facility without proper identification.
Procedures must be in place to identify, challenge and address
unauthorized/unidentified persons.
Any suspicions circumstances should be reported immediately to the
Security Guard, the Guard Supervisor or the Port Facility Security
Officer. Radio communications should not be used to make reports of
suspicious activities.
The person involved should make all reports so that there is no
miscommunication.

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Access Control: Physical Security Measures

Physical security is the actual measures that impedes or minimize free
movement within or around the ship or port facility. These include but
are not limited to:
fencing
lighting
signage
buffer zones
alarm systems
locks
CCTV
crossbars
turnstiles
Automatic Intrusion Detection Devices
Automatic Ship Security Alert System
Automatic Identification System
Stevedores are not expected to know detailed technical knowledge of
physical security measures; however, the stevedore should ensure
familiarity with the handling of such devices and systems.
Restricted Areas
The purposes of restricted areas are to:
protect passengers, ships personnel, port facility personnel and visitors,
including those visiting in connection with the ship;
protect the port facility
protect ships using, and serving, port facility
protect sensitive security location and areas within the port facility.
protect security and surveillance equipment and systems; and
protect cargo and ships stores from tampering.
Marking of restricted areas
All restricted areas should be clearly marked by signs indicating that
access to the area is restricted and that unauthorized presence within the
area constitutes a breech of security.‘Restricted Areas’ should be
bounded by fencing or other barriers to a standard which should be
approved by the Contracting Government.
Any one who is not authorized to go into any restricted areas should be
escorted by a crew member or security of the Port Facility ensuring he or
she has a visiting pass for the time of visit.
It is mandatory that badges/passes issued by the port facility or ship be
visibly worn at all times

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Stevedores, dockers and visitors must be advised of the sign and rules
governing all restricted areas.
Typical Restricted Areas at a Port Facility
shore and waterside areas immediately adjacent to the ship
embarkation and disembarkation area, passenger and ship personnel
holding area including search point
loading, unloading or storage of cargo and storage of cargo and stores
area.
area where security sensitive information , including cargo
documentation, is held
area where dangerous goods and hazardous substance are stored
aids to navigation and port control building, vessel traffic management
system control room, including security and surveillance control room.
electrical radio and telecommunication, water and other utility
installation.
These security measures may extend, with the agreement of the relevant
authorities, to restricted on unauthorized access to structures from which
the port facility can be observed.
Typical Restricted Areas onboard ship.
Navigation Bridge, machinery spaces of category A and other control
stations.
space containing security surveillance equipment and system and their
controls and lighting system controls.
ventilation and air conditioning systems and other similar spaces
spaces with access to portable water tanks. Pumps or manifolds
spaces containing dangerous goods or hazardous substance
space containing cargo pump and their controls
cargo spaces and spaces containing ships stores
crew accommodation and
any other areas as determined by the CSO, to which access must be
restricted to maintain security of the ship.

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Figure 5.1.8a

Figure 5.1.8b

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Figure 5.1.8c

Drills and Exercises

The objective of drills and exercises is to ensure that Port Facility
Personnel are proficient in all assigned security duties at all security
levels and in the identification of any security related deficiencies, which
would need to be addressed.
Effective implementation of the provisions of the PFSP requires that
drills be conducted at least once every three (3) months unless the
specific circumstances dictate otherwise. Drills should test individual
elements of the plan such as:-
Damage to, or destruction of, the Port Facility or the ship (e.g. By
explosive devices, arson, sabotage or vandalism, etc)
Hijacking or seizure of the ship or of persons onboard
Tampering with cargo, essential ship equipment or systems or ship’s
stores
Unauthorized access or use including presence of stowaways
Smuggling weapons or equipment, including weapons of mass
destruction
Use of the ship to carry persons intending to cause a security incident and
their equipment

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Use of the ship itself as a weapon or as a means to cause damage or

destruction, blockage of port entrances, locks, approaches, etc.
ISPS Drills are to be carried out at least once in every three months.
Drills should test the ability to change security levels without delay, and
may include simulation of evacuating the ship and/or facility.
Various types of exercises that may include the participation of PFSO (s)
in conjunction with relevant authorities of Contracting Governments,
Company Security Officer (CSO), or Ship Security Officer (SSO), if
available, should be carried out at least once each calendar year with no
more than eighteen (18) months between the exercises.
These exercises should test communication, coordination, resource
availability and response. These exercises may be:-
Full scale or live
Tabletop simulation or seminar or
Combined with other exercises held such as emergency response or other
Port State Authority exercises.
Communications
Stevedores should understand that certain information and
communications will be considered security sensitive and that the level of
sensitivity may change, as do levels of security.
All personnel should appreciate the risk of security leaks through
communication by improper methods or to the wrong persons.
Seemingly benign conversations, therefore, may result in disastrous
consequences.
Some communication of information considered sensitive may be:
Ship movement
PFSP details
Information about cargo
Security Intelligence received, etc.

2. Security Responsibilities
5.2.1 Contracting Governments
The Contracting Government shall set security levels and provide
guidance for protection from security incidents. It is also responsible for
communicating information to the IMO and to the shipping and port
industries.
The Primary Responsibilities of Contracting Governments includes:
Security of Assessments and Plans
Establishment of Designation Authorities
Authorization of Recognized Security Organizations
Setting the ISPS Security Level for flagged Ships and Port Facilities
Arranging alternative security agreements when necessary

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Maintaining the manning level for ships under its flag

Establishing Control and compliance measures
The Ship
The ship carries an International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC)
indicating that it complies with the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part
A of the ISPS Code. The verification and certification of the ship’s
compliance with the requirements are done on an initial, renewal and
intermediate basis.
Prior to entering a port or whilst in a port within the territory of a
Contracting Government, a ship shall comply with the requirements for
the security level set by that Contracting Government.
Ship Security Officer (SSO)
Every ship requires a designated Ship Security Officer. This is the person
on board the ship, accountable to the master, designated by the Company
as responsible for the security of the ship, including implementation and
maintenance of the ship security plan, and for liaison with the company
security officer and port facility security officers.
The Port Facility (PF)
A port facility is required to act upon the security levels set by the
Contracting Government within whose territory it is located. Security
measures and procedures shall be applied at the port facility in such a
manner as to cause a minimum of interference with, or delay to,
passengers, ship, ship’s personnel and visitors, goods and services.
The Contracting Government/Designated Authority located within it’s
territory approves a Port Facility Security Assessment (PFSA) and a Port
Facility Security Plan (PFSP) for every port facility. A designated PFSO
shall maintain ISPS security measures at the port facility, based on the
approved assessment and plan.

Statement of Compliance of a Port Facility (SoCPF)

A Statement of Compliance is issued by the Contracting Government
within whose territory the port facility is located to indicate: the port
facility, that the port facility complies with the provisions of chapter XI-2
and part A of the Code, the period of validity of the SoCPF which should
not exceed five years, and the verification arrangements established by
the Contracting Government.
Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)
Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) is the person designated as
responsible for the development, implementation, revision and
maintenance of the PFSP and for liaison with the SSO and CSO. A
person may be designated as a PFSO for one or more port facilities. The
PFSO shall be given the necessary support to fulfil the relevant duties and
responsibilities.
Personnel with Specific Security Duties

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Port facility personnel having specific security duties is the security force
employed by the port facility to carry out the necessary operational
security measures outlined in the port facility security plan.
Other Port Facility Personnel (including Stevedores
Other Port facility personnel are all personnel engaged with non-security
port activities on a routine basis. Since security is everyone’s business,
other port facility personnel, including stevedores share the responsibility
in maintaining security awareness and reporting suspicious activities to
security.

3. Documentation and Records

Some of the main documents of concern are as follows: -
TRAINING DRILLS/ EXERCISES
SECURITY THREATS/ INCIDENTS
MAINTENANCE/ CALIBRATION OF EQUIPMENT
BREACHES OF SECURITY
CHANGES IN LEVELS OF SECURITY
Reporting security incidents
The purpose of a report is to recount certain facts/occurrences, in an
orderly sequence so that the person it is address to will be fully informed
of the incident and would be able to make recommendation or take what
ever action is necessary.
It is a requirement that, ship owners, stevedores, and crew report any
incident or suspicious activity they observe to the ship security or
supervisor during the process of the handling of cargo, followed by a
written report within 24 hrs.
When there is a confirmed report of a suspicious item or package, the
PFSO/SSO will decide what action is to be taken with regard to
evacuation from the area.
If a suspicious item/package is found:
Do not attempt to move or interfere with it in any way.
Do not put water over it.
Do not cover it.
Bear in mind that there may be more than one bomb.
Inform the authorities of the suspicious item/package, its description and
location.
Reports of suspicious packages, behaviour and activities are only
examples of what types of events to report. The report itself however,
should be factual, accurate, objective, complete, concise, clear, correct,
legible and on time. It should also answer effectively the six (6)
interrogatives of who, what, where, when, how and why.

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Stevedores must ensure that all security incidents are reported in

accordance with specific reporting requirements.
It is always good to write reports when the incident is fresh in your mine.
Thing to be written in detail in a report:
When it happen (date, day, time)
Where did it happen (place)
Who or what it happen to
What happen
Who did it
Why did it happen
Who saw it happen

Company Policy and Responsibility:

When vessels are carrying dangerous goods, it is the responsibility of the
owner of a vessel to inform stevedore workers and other person working
on board, about its stowage location, potential hazards and safety
measures needed to be observed.
Stevedores should not remove, alter, displace or interfere with any
safety/security device provided for to avoid security incidents

4. Security of Cargo
Maintaining Security of the Ship/Port Interface
Ship/Port Interface means the interactions that occur when a ship is
directly and immediately affected by actions involving the movement of
persons, goods or the provisions of port services to or from the ship.
This interface between the ship/port determines that a port facility exists
and therefore determines the need for a PFSP and the interaction with the
Ship Security Plan. The setting of security levels by the port or by the
ship, with liaison services provided by the CSO, will allow the PFSO and
the SSO to understand their duties and constraints.
Usage of the Declaration of Security (DOS)
Declaration of Security means an agreement reached between a ship and
either a port facility or another ship with which it interfaces, specifying
the security measures each will implement.
The PFSP should establish details of the procedures and security
measures the port facility could adopt if the port facility is at a lower
security level than that applying to a ship.
Security Measures for Cargo Control
Guard surveillance

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Control system
Parking areas
Screening
Investiations
Key control
Security patrol
Detection and surveillance systems
Perimeter fencing and access controls
Accounting procedures
Secure storage areas
Liaison
Actions Required at Different Security Levels
There are three tiers or levels of security within the ISPS security system.
Each level specify what is expected in relation to security when handling
cargo.
Level One: - During cargo handling operations it is recommended that a
port facility implement the following measures:
Routine checking of cargo, cargo transport units and cargo storage areas
within the port facility prior to, and during, cargo handling operations
Checks to ensure that cargo entering the port facility matches the delivery
note or equivalent cargo documentation
Checking of seals and other methods used to prevent tampering upon
entering the port facility and upon storage within the port facility
Visual and physical examination of cargo
Level Two: - During cargo handling operations it is recommended that a
port facility implement the following measures at level 2:
Detailed checking of cargo, cargo transport units and cargo storage areas
within the port facility prior to, and during, cargo handling operations
Intensified checks, as appropriate, to ensure that only the documented
cargo enters the port facility, is temporarily stored there and is then
loaded onto the ship
Increased frequency and detail in checking of seals and other methods
used to prevent tampering upon entering the port facility and upon
storage within the port facility
Increase frequency of Visual and physical examination of cargo
Increase frequency of the use of scanners/detection equipment,
mechanical devices and dogs
Level Three: - At security level three the port facility should implement
the following:
Restriction or suspension of cargo movements or operations within all or
part of the port facility or specific ships

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Verify the inventory of dangerous goods and hazardous substances held

within the port facility and their location.
The security of different types of cargo:
General Cargo:
General cargo is usually shipped in manageable quantities that can be
easily checked. However, the larger the overall quantity and the smaller
the individual cargo units, the greater the problems associated with
verification and security.
Undetected tallying errors may result in what is termed theoretical loss of
cargo. Actual loss may result due to pilferage or theft.
The security measures at the different security levels apply. In addition,
stevedores should be watchful and report any suspicious activities they
observe. Suspicious packages should also be reported.
High value cargo:
This type of cargo include mostly currency, artwork election ballot or
diplomatic bag when loaded in containers, must always be stow on the
third or forth tier(depending on how many tier the vessel can stack its
container on deck) on board the carrying vessel and they should be
stowed door to door.
High value cargo must be discharge in the presence of armed port
security or other armed security personnel. The security measures at the
different security levels must be adhered to without compromise.
High-value items demand uncompromising standards of security and
confidentiality.
Refrigerated Cargo:
Refrigerated cargo usually comes in reefer containers and can be stowed
either on deck or under deck of the carrier. They consist mostly of
perishable goods such as fruits, vegetables or frozen sea food. The
temperature is regulated by electric motors at the rear end of the
container.
The security measures at the different security levels apply. However,
stevedores should perform the following checks:
check that electric cables of the containers are connected
check that the temperature is properly regulated
check that there is a valid sea lock (seal)
check the motor area for suspicious activity and packages
keep a constant watch of the container
Dangerous cargo (IMDG):
Dangerous cargo poses a significant risk to health, safety, property or
environment. Therefore it requires the maximum security.
The Master of the ship should ensure that the cargo is properly labelled.
Stevedore and other persons working on board should be advised of the
presence and location of the dangerous goods. They should also be

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reminded of the precautionary measures associated with the particular

cargo to minimize the risk involve when handling such cargo.
Stevedores should following the handling procedures associated with the
labelled cargo and apply the recommended security measures at the
different security level.
Bulk Cargo
Unsegregated mass commodities including, without limitation, items such
as petroleum products, coal, natural gas, grain and bulk salt. Loading and
discharge are normally performed at specialized terminals, using cargo
handling systems that are designed for the specific commodities.
The security measures at the different security levels apply.
Roll-on, Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Cargo
Roll-on, Roll-off (Ro-Ro) cargo is generally rolled on and rolled off of
the ship. Vehicles have many areas where illegal contraband could be
stored and shipped.
In light of this, the security measures at the different security levels
should be adhered to with vigilance. Sstevedores should ensure that a
proper inspection of the vehicle is conducted.
Containerized cargo
Containerized cargo is a major part of international trade. Packages
which would have otherwise been general cargo may be grouped and
placed in a container for easier handling.
However, container security has been an issue because of an inherent
flaw in the design of their sealing mechanism and the construction of the
container. As a result, container integrity may be comprised by the
introduction of unauthorized material and/or persons.
There is a possibility of weapons, dangerous substances and devices
stowaways and/or drugs being transported in containers. Therefore,
containers should be stored in a secure area to prevent unauthorized
access and/or manipulation.
Despite these limitations, it is possible to get a general idea of the
integrity of a container by examining the seal which is now affixed to
containers to verify their security. A high security seal should be affixed
to all loaded containers. There should be a thorough inspection of the
structure of the container prior to sealing.
The following seals maybe used on containers:
Ringlock seals

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Figure 5.4.1 - The ringlock seal provides a positive barrier against

unauthorised tampering or entry. Once the seal is closed, it is impossible
to open with out destroying or damaging the seal or leaving visible signs
of damage. The ringlock seal is a quick, economical way of providing
security. These ringlocks are a one piece 'snap fix' seal, they can be
barcoded, colour-matched or logo embossed and can be easily attached or
removed by hand. Standard length is 217mm and standard colours are red
and green, other lengths and colours can be ordered in. Standard number
is sequential alphanumeric with seven spaces. Packed in boxes of 1000
pcs.
Posicheck metal seals

Figure 5.4.2 - Sophisticated design ensures a high level of security and

maximum protection against tampering. Visual indicator and alignment
holes help to aid the sealing process. They are serial numbers
permanently embossed with individual alphanumeric numbering. They fit
through extremely thin slots. The Posicheck comes in boxes of 1000 pcs.

Tyden Brammall seals

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Figure 5.4.3 - The Tyden seal has a unique patented locking ball head.
The Tyden seals are manufactured from tin plate and are sequentially
numbered. The seals have a useable length of 177mm and are packed in
boxes of 1000 pcs. Also available as pictured are 50m rolls of Aluvin
4mm wide slotted extension tie wire suitable for Tyden Brammall and
other seals.
Omega seals

Figure 5.4.4 - Plastic and metal assembly gives maximum physical

security. They can used quickly by hand and can only be removed by
scissors. A Stepless grip design produces a smooth strap, narrow strap
suitable for small apertures down to 2.0mm. They are available in
160mm operational length, in white, and packed in boxes of 1000 pcs.
Snapper Bolt seals

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Figure 5.4.5 - This is a high security metal and plastic bolt seal. These
seals are specially designed for sealing containers and doors of all
descriptions used for shipping, airfreight, roadfreight and railfreight. The
Snapper Bolt seal comes in high visibility yellow, they are shatter
resistant and the plastic covering gives a clear evidence of tampering as
well as providing corrosion resistance. These seals have pull strength of
approximately 1720kg and shear strength of approximately 2000kg.
Numbering is available on both bolt and body. The seals are fully
lubricated to prevent friction attack and are removable only with bolt
cutters. These seals come in boxes of 250 pcs.

Cable seals

Figure 5.4.6 - These seals are available in a variety of cable sizes and
lengths. They can only be removed with wire cutters. Standard seals are
sequentially number. They are ideal where hasps and latches are not
properly aligned and where flexing of the seal is required. These seals
come in boxes of 1000 pcs.
The security measures at the different security levels apply. Additionally,
stevedores should:
inspect the container carefully before discharging
check containers for damaged seals, fresh welding, cut lock bar,
unauthorized marks or a false compartment.

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Empty containers should be re-sealed when being loaded onto a ship

Empty containers are to be sealed when being stored at a port facility

Unit summary
In this unit you learned about maritime security as a stevedore in a port
facility. This was achieved through a number of minimum functional
security requirements for ship and port facility operations. The
Summary successful participant should therefore be well poised to conduct his
duties with a security conscious frame of mind.

Assignment
1. List the six (6) major maritime security threats.
2. List five (5) breeches of security on board a ship and at a port facility.
3. Out line the basic procedures for reporting security incidents

Assignment 4. Explain the detailed requirements of the three (3) security levels in
relation to handling of cargo.
5. Explain what is considered a ‘Restricted Area’ on board ship and at the
port facility.
6. Explain the stevedore’s role in security drills and exercises.
7. Explain the requirements to wear identification badges and visitor
passes while at the port facility.
8. While off loading cargo from a container vessel at the port of
Basseterre, a Stevedore observed at about 1800hrs on the 12th November
2009 that there were two container seals broken and the door lids were
slightly ajar, with a cell phone lying on the deck next to the container.
9. Utilizing the standard security report form, write a report detailing this
finding.

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Assessment
1. Define the three (3) maritime security levels.
2. Explain the necessity to keep sensitive security information
confidential.
Assessment
3. Explain six (6) procedural practices in reporting security breeches that
are likely to be observed at the ship/port interface.
4. Describe six (6) weapons likely to be transported via ships, for use by
terrorists.
5. Describe five (5) typical behavioural patterns of a person who is likely
to threaten security at a port facility or onboard a ship.
6. Explain five (5) techniques that is likely to be used to circumvent
(avoid) security measures.
7. State five (5) places on board a ship that would normally be deemed a
“Restricted Area’.
8. State five (5) places at the port facility that would normally be deemed
a ‘Restricted Area’.
9. Describe the importance of maintaining records of cargo movement at
the port facility.
10. List possible security breeches when handling the following cargo
types: General Cargo, Ro-Ro Cargo and Containerized Cargo.

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