Cargo contamination claims are the most frequent and costly type of claim that tankers experience. Subsequently, the cargo samples taken throughout cargo operations are a fundamental part of a shipowner's defence against a claim for an off-spec. Therefore, when a claim arises, those samples drawn and retained onboard during the cargo operations will need to be provided and submitted for laboratory analysis. The results will help indicate when and where the cargo became contaminated.
Correct labelling, sealing and record keeping of samples are fundamental to ensure the proper chain of custody is maintained when using samples as evidence to investigate an off-spec claim.
The video "Cargo Sampling Onboard Tankers" shows the correct sequence for taking samples onboard a tanker, considering which sampling method to use at the various sampling points on the vessels.