Carriage of grain cargoes shall be in accordance with the requirements of SOLAS 74 Amended Chapter VI.
International Regulations stipulate two basic requirements:
The ship has been issued with and carries onboard a Document of Authorization and a Grain Loading Stability Booklet.
The grain is properly loaded in accordance with the regulations as described in the Document of Authorization.
Investigation of casualties involving ships loaded with grain has determined the most likely cause in all examined cases was a shift of the grain cargo
in consequence of a failure to load in accordance with the regulations.
Grain is easily susceptible to damage which can lead to large claims. The following are some guidelines:
a. Surveyors:
In planning to receive grain close attention Chief mate 3000gt should be paid to the requirements of the loading port in order to satisfy any attending surveyor who may be required to certify the holds fit to receive grain.
b. Cleaning:
Cleanliness is an obvious prerequisite for the carriage of grain. All holds must be thoroughly clean paying particular attention to bilge wells’ beams, upper hold areas, etc.
c. Insect Infestation:
It is vital that preventative measures be taken to protect the grain from insect infestation. To this end, prior to loading a grain cargo, the hold will be thoroughly sprayed with the insecticide with Malathion or similar product.
If the cargo is found to be infested loading shall cease immediately and the Master should contact the office for advice. In such case mate’s receipt bills of lading to be endorsed accordingly.
d. Moisture:
One of the most important factors with a bulk cargo is that moisture content is not even, it can vary as much as 2% in different parts of the bulk and it is possible to have isolated areas of moisture content where fermentation will generate heat. This heat willdrive the moisture upwards; the top part of the bulk accepts most of the moisture, the worst damage occurring there. This is sometimes mistaken for sweat damage.
The moisture content of Wheat on shipment should not exceed 13% when in bulk and 14% when in bags. When carried in tankers the moisture content should be less.
The moisture content of Maize on shipment should not exceed 14% and its acid contents should not exceed 3%. For lengthy voyages the moisture content should be less.
With moisture content liable to occur.
above these limiting percentages fermentation and mound are
Every effort shall be made to check the moisture content by sighting the shore sample analysis which should be taken every 30 minutes. Any readings above 16% shall result in the suspension of cargo loading.
If obtained readings are over 14% the shore shall be advised to increase the frequency of the sampling to every 10 minutes. If readings reach 16% or above the cargo loading shall be immediately suspended and only resumed if lot ((silo) is changed.
Cargoes transshipped to the vessel via barges are more liable to high moisture content and infestation and in this respect require more attention.
In the event of drizzle and/or rain, loading to be stopped immediately and holds covered.
Prior to opening of holds, hatch covers to be swept dry. We suggest that if
possible/feasible try to open only part of the hatch cover (one or two sections) and thus avoid large exposed areas.
Keep the office informed during loading of:
(a) Cargo moisture content (keep records of findings and record same in log book).
(b) Condition of cargo.
(c) Progress of loading, etc.
(d) Any untoward events.
During the sea passage the Master shall personally satisfy himself that the hatches are kept water tight.