Cargo Securing Manual for Container Vessel

1. Introduction

The Cargo Securing Manual outlines the procedures and guidelines for safely securing
cargo on a container vessel during loading, transit, and unloading. Securing cargo properly is
essential for maintaining the safety and stability of the vessel, preventing damage to the
cargo, and ensuring the safety of crew members during operations. This manual provides the
necessary instructions for the proper stowage, securing, and lashing of containers according
to international standards and best practices.

2. Scope

This manual applies to all personnel involved in cargo securing operations on container
vessels, including the crew, terminal operators, and other stakeholders. It covers:

 Procedures for securing containers on deck and in holds.

 The types of securing and lashing equipment.
 Regulatory compliance requirements.
 Safety protocols during cargo securing operations.

3. Objectives

The primary objectives of this manual are:

 To ensure the safe securing of containers to prevent movement and damage during
transit.
 To maintain the vessel’s stability by following correct weight distribution and
securing guidelines.
 To comply with international maritime safety regulations and guidelines.

4. Types of Cargo Securing Equipment

Various types of equipment are used to secure containers on a vessel. The correct choice and
use of securing devices are essential for ensuring the safety of both cargo and vessel.

4.1 Twistlocks

 Purpose: Twistlocks are used to secure the corners of containers to the vessel’s
structure or to other containers.
 Types:
 o Standard Twistlocks: Used for securing containers to the deck or in the
holds.
o Locking Twistlocks: Designed to prevent containers from becoming
dislodged during transit.

4.2 Lashing Bars and Rods

 Purpose: Lashing bars or rods are placed across containers and used in combination
with chains or ropes to prevent lateral movement.
 Application: These are used in both horizontal and vertical securing to ensure the
containers do not shift in any direction.

4.3 Lashing Chains and Ropes

 Purpose: Lashing chains and ropes are used to apply tension to containers, securing
them firmly to the ship.
 Chains: Typically used for heavy or high-stress applications where increased strength
is needed.
 Ropes: Used for lighter cargo or where adjustment is needed.

4.4 Dunnage

 Purpose: Dunnage (wood, rubber, or other soft material) is used to fill the gaps
between containers to prevent movement during transit.
 Application: It is primarily used between containers stowed side by side and helps
cushion the containers from contact damage.

4.5 Ratchet Straps

 Purpose: Adjustable ratchet straps are used for tightening and securing containers on
deck.
 Application: Primarily used for lighter cargo or containers placed side by side with
minimal gaps.

5. Cargo Securing Procedures

5.1 Preparing for Securing

1. Pre-Loading Checks:
o Verify the stowage plan to ensure that the containers are loaded according to
weight distribution and stability requirements.
o Inspect securing equipment, including twistlocks, chains, ropes, and lashing
bars, for signs of wear or damage. Defective equipment should be replaced
immediately.
o Ensure the deck or hold is clear of any debris, and that securing points
(twistlocks, lashing rings) are intact and free from rust or corrosion.
2. Loading Containers:
o Heavy containers should be stowed on the lower levels or centrally in the hold
to minimize the impact on the vessel’s stability.
 o Lighter containers should be placed on top or toward the ship's outer edges to
ensure proper balance.
o For refrigerated (reefer) containers, ensure that power connections are
established before securing.

5.2 Securing Containers on Deck

1. Positioning Containers:
o Place containers in their designated locations according to the stowage plan.
o Containers should be aligned with the ship's securing points (twistlocks) to
ensure they can be securely fastened.
2. Securing with Twistlocks:
o Insert twistlocks into the container’s corner castings and rotate them to lock
them into position.
o Ensure that each twistlock is fully engaged and locked securely.
o For containers stacked on top of each other, ensure that twistlocks are also
securing the containers on top.
3. Using Lashing Bars and Chains:
o Lay the lashing bars across the containers and secure them to the vessel’s
lashing points.
o Tighten the lashing chains or rods to ensure there is no slack.
o Apply sufficient tension to prevent any container movement during transit.
4. Ratchet Straps and Ropes:
o In addition to twistlocks and lashing bars, use ratchet straps to further tighten
the securing system.
o Straps should be tightened just enough to prevent container movement,
without over-tightening, which can damage the cargo or the securing points.
5. Applying Dunnage:
o If there are gaps between containers, place dunnage between them to prevent
shifting.
o Ensure the dunnage is firmly in place and secured to avoid displacement.

5.3 Securing Containers in Holds

1. Positioning and Locking Containers:

o Containers should be locked into place using twistlocks in the container slots
provided in the hold.
o For additional security, use lashing chains and rods where needed to prevent
any movement during the voyage.
2. Lashing Containers:
o For heavy or high-profile containers in the hold, additional lashings may be
required.
o Ensure that lashings are tensioned appropriately to prevent the containers from
shifting under the force of sea movement.
3. Filling Gaps:
o Use dunnage or other suitable materials to fill gaps between containers in the
hold.
o This helps to reduce shifting and prevents potential damage to containers.

5.4 Final Checks

 1. Inspection:
o After all containers have been secured, conduct a thorough inspection of the
lashings, twistlocks, and securing points.
o Ensure that all securing devices are properly fastened and that no containers
are at risk of shifting during the voyage.
2. Documentation:
o Record the completion of the lashing process in the vessel’s logbook or cargo
securing documentation.
o Note any issues or irregularities found during the securing process, including
damaged containers or equipment.

6. Safety Considerations

6.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All personnel involved in cargo securing operations must wear appropriate PPE, including:

 Safety helmets
 Steel-toed boots
 Gloves
 High-visibility vests
 Eye protection when required

6.2 Safe Work Practices

 Ensure the weather conditions are safe for securing operations. Avoid working in
heavy seas, during storms, or in other hazardous conditions.
 Use proper lifting techniques when handling heavy lashing equipment or containers.
 Always follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure crew safety during
cargo securing operations.
 Never step on or work around unsecured cargo.

6.3 Emergency Response

 In the event of a cargo-related emergency, such as a container falling overboard,

immediately notify the bridge and begin implementing emergency procedures.
 Crew members should be trained to respond to emergencies related to cargo securing,
such as container fires, hazardous material spills, or containers shifting during rough
seas.

7. Inspection and Maintenance of Securing Equipment

7.1 Routine Inspections

 Inspect all lashing equipment before and after use to ensure it is in good condition.
 Check twistlocks, lashing bars, chains, and ropes for signs of wear, corrosion, or
damage.
  Perform regular maintenance and servicing of lashing equipment as per the
manufacturer’s recommendations.

7.2 Replacement of Damaged Equipment

 Any damaged or defective equipment should be immediately removed from service

and replaced with new or fully repaired equipment.
 Keep a log of all inspections, maintenance, and repairs to maintain proper records of
securing equipment condition.

8. Regulatory Compliance

The vessel must adhere to all relevant international regulations regarding cargo securing:

 SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea): Requires that all cargo be properly secured to
prevent loss or shifting.
 IMO (International Maritime Organization): Provides guidelines for the safe
securing of containers.
 ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code: Requires security
measures to prevent cargo tampering or theft.
 IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code): Specifies special
handling and securing procedures for hazardous cargo.

9. Conclusion

The Cargo Securing Manual provides the framework for ensuring that containers are
securely fastened aboard a container vessel. By following the procedures outlined in this
manual, vessel operators can minimize the risks associated with cargo shifting, protect the
integrity of the vessel, and ensure the safety of the crew. Regular inspection and maintenance
of securing equipment are vital to maintaining the effectiveness of the cargo securing process.

This manual should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in regulations,
industry standards, and operational feedback.

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