Loss Prevention Advice
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Recent cases have highlighted growing safety and operational concerns linked to the carriage of baled Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF), as increasing trade volumes continue to expose its variable—and at times hazardous—behaviour at sea, the Swedish Club has warned.
Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) is produced from mixed municipal and commercial waste after sorting and removal of non‑combustible materials. The remaining fraction can contain a significant biodegradable component and often varies considerably in composition.
Moisture levels, storage duration and the condition of the bale wrapping influence how the cargo behaves during transport. Since RDF is not covered by an IMSBC schedule, the Master cannot rely on established reference criteria.
Safe carriage depends to a large extent on the accuracy and completeness of information provided by the shipper.
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On 12 April, a fire broke out aboard the bulk carrier Hyderabad while it was discharging cargo at the outer anchorage of Chittagong, Bangladesh.
As reported, the incident occurred at approximately 3:45 pm local time as two dockworker teams were unloading bagged cargo into lighter barges. Smoke was first observed in the forward mid-section of the hold near the access ladder.
Initial firefighting efforts by dockworkers were unsuccessful, but the vessel’s crew later brought the fire under control using portable dry chemical extinguishers, fire blankets, and water.
Cargo operations from the affected hold were temporarily suspended and later resumed around 5:15 pm once the fire had been contained.
Fortunately, no injuries or pollution have been reported and the vessel remains at Chittagong anchorage. The extent of any cargo damage has not yet been determined.
The Hyderabad had departed Singapore on 4 April and arrived in Chittagong on 10 April.
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On the potential vulnerabilities and limitations of mass flow meters (MFMs) in bunkering operations, providing key tips for operators to avoid any complications.
Although the mass flow meters are designed to improve accuracy and reduce disputes, they are not immune to manipulation. Documented cases in Singapore showed the use of strong magnets placed on sensors to distort readings, resulting in inflated recorded deliveries and significant financial fraud. Other schemes have involved concealed or irregular piping arrangements allowing fuel to be diverted during transfer while still registering full volumes on the meter.
In addition, mass flow meters can be less reliable when operating outside calibrated flow ranges, particularly during low-flow “stripping” operations, which can further complicate accurate measurement and dispute resolution.
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A containership has reportedly been struck by a projectile in the south of kish island, Iran on 7 April.
A late report of an incident 25NM south of Kish Island, Iran. The container vessel was struck by an unknown projectile which has caused damage above the waterline.
the crew are safe and accounted for and no environmental impact has been reported.