The carriage of logs at sea is a specialised trade and all those working on ships that
carry such cargoes need to be fully aware of the relevant safety regulations and
procedures if the voyage is to be safe and successful.
Apart from stability, there are two other key requirements to remember - visibility
and structural integrity. The load must allow adequate visibility for safe navigation
and the weight must not exceed the designed maximum permissible load on the
weather deck and hatches.
Before loading any cargo, the holds must be thoroughly cleaned and the bark
residues from the previous voyage must be collected for subsequent disposal. The
holds, deck structures and other equipment should be inspected to see whether any
damage has occurred that will need rectifying before the ship loads a new cargo.
The stowage and securing of these cargoes on deck requires a complex system of
lashing and the actual loading and discharge pose hazards to all the crew involved.
The video explains some of the safety measures that will help minimise the risk of
accidents or injury during these operations. At all times crew need to be wearing the
appropriate protective equipment and to be aware that crane operators may not be
able to see where they are. It is also important to ensure cargo stability prior to
encountering heavy weather.
Code No 760
Time: 33 Mins