Logistics News

Allianz arm launches guide on shipping big cargo safely

Big, awkward and expensive goods need specialised handling techniques

 

Insurer Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and protection and indemnity firm UK P&I Club are bolstering efforts on safe handling and stowage of awkward cargoes.

The pair published How to safely load, stow and discharge heavy lifts and project, for shipowners and operators that provides practical guidance on how to carry heavy-lift and project cargo safely.

The report has been prepared in response to the significant increase in damage losses to ships and cargoes that can be attributed a lack of expertise, skills and resources deployed in handling heavy lifts and project cargo.

“When it comes to transporting heavy-lift cargo, high value and project critical pieces of equipment, transportation and logistics demands are often complex and unique to each project,” AGCS Pacific regional marine manager Ron Johnson says.

“There is a concern about the lack of expertise, skills and resources deployed in this complex area of transportation.

“With the growing number of incidents across the globe, the report aims to guide cargo owners and operators through the pitfalls associated with handling heavy lifts and project cargo.”

Pitfalls highlighted in the report include use of inherently unsuitable bulk carriers, loading a ship so that it rolls too slowly or too quickly and overloads the cargo fastenings, and failing to ensure that heavy items are adequately secured.

AGCS Pacific marine consultant Captain Joseph Alphonse, from Allianz Risk Consulting in Melbourne, has conducted additional site surveys.

His findings have highlighted additional perils that could leave cargo owners exposed, including the:

absence of Detail Method Statements for the loading and handling of the cargo developed before loading of these critical cargoes

failure to complete a peer review in arriving at lifting or load bearing capabilities

incorrect use of codes or guidelines when arriving at handling plans and method statements; and

pre-chartering unsuitable vessels for the cargo, leaving customers with limited ability to switch vessels without incurring considerable costs.

“The costs involved in project cargo damage or losses can be very large, often running into tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars,” Alphonse says.

“The risk involved can be largely mitigated with careful planning and attention before the cargo is received for shipment, and by always following the procedures contained in our new guide.”

Johnson adds that insureds are reminded to evaluate all risks to cargo and potential insurance losses, with consideration given to the appropriate handling of heavy lift and project cargo.

The Report “How to safely load, stow and discharge heavy lifts and project” has been prepared for brokers and clients connected to significant projects or in the logistics and shipping industries, and to provide technical guidelines in the appropriate management of project cargo and heavy lift.

The report can be downloaded from the AGCS website at www.agcs.allianz.com or by contacting Ron Johnson directly on ron.johnson@allianz.com.au

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