Mastering the precautions for the safe carriage of bulk grain extends far beyond compliance with the International Grain Code and regulations. Ensuring the safe shipment of grain is a complex process that starts well before the first kernel is loaded onto the vessel.
A single overlooked detail during the planning or execution phase of a cargo shipment can affect the condition of the cargo and ultimately determine its state upon arrival at the discharge port, explains Antony Dats Thomas in a recent Risk Alert from Steamship Mutual.
The term “Grain” refers to wheat, maize (corn), oats, rye, barley, rice, pulses, seeds, and their processed forms so long as their behaviour is similar to that of grain in its natural state. When carried in bulk on ships, these cargoes are defined by their “free flowing” nature, which means they can settle and shift during a voyage posing significant risks to ship stability.
To mitigate these stability risks, the International Grain Code (part of SOLAS Chapter VI), mandates strict safety precautions for the vessels to have a Document of Authorisation or an approved equivalent as required by the Grain Code.
Furthermore, vessels are subject to stowage requirements designed to minimise the effects of shifting and settling. It is the responsibility of the ship’s master to ensure that all filling, trimming (levelling) and securing follow the specific loading conditions including the recent amendment to the Code (Steamship Mutual – Amendments to the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk) Grain has inherent biological characteristics that present unique risks during carriage.
As an organic, living cargo, grain is vulnerable to damage from wetting, mould growth, water ingress, infestation and contamination. In addition, exposure to external heat sources, such as engine room bulkheads or heated bunker tanks as well as self‑heating within the grain itself, can lead to significant deterioration and extensive cargo damage, often resulting in significant claims.
Improper fumigation practices also account for a significant proportion of grain related cargo damage and subsequent legal disputes.
This Risk Alert provides general but important guidance on the precautions and operational considerations necessary to mitigate these risks and reduce the likelihood of grain cargo damage claims.
Cargo Hold Cleaning
Before loading, it is essential that all cargo holds are prepared to meet Grain Clean standards, which represent the level of cleanliness required for food grade commodities. This means the holds must be completely free from insects, odours, residues of previous cargoes, lashing materials, dunnage, loose rust scale, paint flakes and any other foreign matter that could contaminate the grain.
Particular attention should be given to removing any loose scale or flaking paint, as these can detach during the voyage and mix with the cargo, which is unacceptable under Grain Clean standards. The cleaning process should include thorough sweeping of all surfaces, followed by washing down with fresh water to remove any rust and salt deposits.
After washing, the holds must be completely dried and well-ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation between structural members and hold fittings. Most exporters and local authorities enforce high standards of hold cleanliness for grain shipments and failure to comply can result in delays and rejection of cargo holds.
Hold Structure & Bilge Integrity
Conducting thorough inspections of all structural and operational components within the cargo holds prior to loading grain cargoes.
Carefully examine the bulkheads, wing tanks, topside tanks, double bottom tank tops, sounding and filling pipes, manholes and the ship’s sides for any signs of damage or leakage.
Indicators such as rust stains or damp streaks often suggest the presence of cracks or structural weaknesses that require immediate attention. In addition to structural checks, the bilge pumping system should be tested to confirm that it is functioning properly, including the performance and integrity of each component including pipes, valves, expansion joints and non-return valves in the system.
Furthermore, bilge wells should be clear of obstructions and be covered with burlap or another suitable material, securely fastened in place.
Cargo Hold Weathertight Integrity
Conduct a comprehensive inspection of all hatch coamings and hatch seals, ventilation ducts, hatches, drain channels, sounding pipes, temperature ports and other components of the cargo hold to ensure the weather integrity of the cargo spaces. Rubber gaskets must be examined carefully to confirm that they are intact, continuous and free from cracks, cuts or signs of compression set that could compromise their sealing capability.
Hatch cover cleats, wedges and rest pads should be properly adjusted to ensure uniform pressure across the hatch cover seals, ensuring the cargo holds are secure and weather tight.
To confirm the weathertightness of the hatches, an ultrasonic test (UST) should be conducted using approved, certified and calibrated equipment. Deficiencies identified during the UST should be addressed promptly and corrective actions should be documented. The results of the ultrasonic test should be recorded in detail as part of the vessel’s pre-loading checks and safety records.
Non-return valves, pipes and associated drain channels should be checked to verify that they are clear, functional, and free from any obstruction. Attention should be given to hatch coaming drain channels, as blockages in these areas can lead to water accumulation and potential ingress into the cargo hold.
Fuel & Ballast Water Distribution and Management
When planning fuel oil distribution, special attention is be given to tanks that require heating. Avoid heating fuel oil tanks adjacent to cargo holds as heat transfer can raise the temperature within the cargo spaces, potentially causing heat damage to sensitive grain shipments.
Proper planning may ensure heated tanks are positioned away from cargo holds, minimising the risk of heat related deterioration and maintaining cargo integrity throughout the voyage.
Filling ballast tanks above double bottom level increases the risk of accidental water ingress into the cargo holds through defects in manholes or other structures and may cause severe cargo damage. To prevent accidental cargo damage, avoid filling ballast tanks next to cargo holds above the tank top level, provided this is safe and practical for the vessel’s operations.
Cargo Condition and Sampling
Verify the moisture content of the grains and obtain a formal cargo quality certificate or equivalent from shippers to confirm the cargo specifications. For safe shipment and carriage, most grain commodities are generally expected to be presented in a dry condition.
While moisture content levels in the region of approximately 11–14.5% are sometimes referenced, acceptability may vary depending on the type of grain, ambient temperature and applicable local authority, cargo and trade requirements.
Masters and operators are advised to seek expert guidance to confirm the acceptable moisture limits for the specific grain being carried. Lower moisture limits are needed for certain voyages depending on the destinations in relation to the climate, duration of voyage and carriage.
Excessive moisture content in the cargo significantly increases the natural respiration rate generating heat within grain, causing self-heating and creating conditions that promote mould growth, rotting and caking.
The safe carriage of bulk grain cargo requires proactive vessel preparation, effective cargo monitoring and strict adherence to established industry best practices. Proper hold preparation, effective moisture and ventilation management and professionally managed fumigation play a vital role in reducing the risk of cargo deterioration. Consistent application of these measures safeguards cargo integrity and significantly minimises the financial and legal exposure associated with bulk grain damage claims for members, shipowners and operators.