Introduction

Intercargo remains predominantly committed to the safe carriage of all cargoes - especially those listed in the IMO IMSBC Code (formally BC Code).

Safe carriage of any cargo remains a collective responsibility of at least the following stakeholders - the Master, The Terminal Operator, Charterer, Cargo interests, the Shipowner, P&I interests, cargo surveyors and the appropriate National or other  Competent Authorities.  Naturally, in all matters relating to safety, the Master retains the ultimate responsibility for the safety of the ship and the seafarers.

There are a number of commodities which have caused their own special challenges within recent times, and these are discussed in more detail below.  Some of these, such as Iron Ore Fines have created particular problems with Masters and owners of late and it is essential that every effort is made to bring all parties together to ensure that the conditions of shipment are in exact compliance with SOLAS and the IMSBC Code.  When Intercargo has been informed by its members that there are practices which are deemed unsafe by the Master, or where there have been extraordinary attempts made by cargo interests to attempt shipment of cargoes which are marginally unsafe, Intercargo will work with its members, its P&I Club Associate Members, our Round Table partners and the IMO to ensure that such practices are discontinued in the interests of safety.  Please note that Intercargo, with the support of Round Table partners has already taken action in respect of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) at the September 2008 meeting of the IMO Dangerous Goods and Solid Bulk Cargoes Sub Committee, with further work under consideration to take up outstanding issues at subsequent IMO meetings.