Standard operating procedure for loading/unloading operations and navigational safety of bulk carriers as per charter party requirements

Abstract

According to the Review of Maritime Transport published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development in 2018, 53.57% of total global seaborne trade volume was transported by bulk carriers in 2017. Bulk cargo shipment is one of the major modes of transportation in the international trade. Many bulk carrier marine accidents each year are caused by inappropriate cargo loading/unloading operation procedures. Therefore, the main purpose of this article is to establish a standard operating procedure for cargo handling and navigational safety management guidelines for bulk carriers. The standard operating procedure proposed in this article is developed based on loading/unloading theories, international rules and regulations, case studies, a literature review, expert opinions, and practical experience from some captains, as well as the author who has worked as a bulk carrier captain for more than 20 years. The developed standard operating procedure can be offered to bulk carrier captains, ship owners and charterers, and ship safety management companies for improving navigational safety and avoiding cargo damage.