Page 8 - INTERCARGO - Bulk Carrier Casualty Report 2023

Introduction

The importance of safety in the bulk carrier industry cannot be overstat-
ed. It is our prime priority, as the global fleet is now bigger than ever and
continues to grow. As a measure of its growth, there are currently about
13,000 bulk carriers compared to just over 10,000 in 2013. In total, the
bulk fleet is equivalent to more than 40% of all world tonnage.

Reflecting on the last decade, this report shows there is a clear trend of improved
safety and declining ship losses at a time of fleet growth. We should be proud of
this twin achievement and recognise that improved safety is largely thanks to con-
stant learning, better crew training, improved ship design, new technology and
stronger regulatory compliance. However, very sadly, major incidents involving
loss of life have occurred and we must pay close attention to the causes explained
in this report-there is no room for complacency.

As the voice of the dry bulk sector, INTERCARGO is determined to help lead the
response to these events. We are working with our members, including ship own-
ers and industry stakeholders, to do all we can to learn and protect the lives of the
brave men and women who crew bulk carriers. Dry bulk ships are at the very heart
of global trade, transporting iron ore, steel, coal, cement and grains. We must
learn how best to protect the vessels and their cargo, from damage and loss, as
well as the safety of seafarers. There is much at stake, given the huge investment
owners and operators are making in building and operating the vessels in the de-
manding environment of the high seas and busy, often congested, ports.

Our report shows that between 2013 and 2022, 26 bulk carriers of more than
10,000 deadweight tonnes (dwt) were reported lost, with the tragic loss of 104
seafarers lives.

An analysis of these incidents highlights cargo liquefaction and
groundings as the major causes.

Cargo liquefaction remains Cargo liquefaction remains the greatest contributor to loss of life,
while groundings remain the greatest cause of ship losses.
the greatest contributor to
loss of life and concern of
the bulk carrier industry. Liquefaction

Four of the five bulk carrier casualties which occurred as a re-
sult of cargo liquefaction, were loaded with nickel ore and one
with bauxite.

8