Warning on jumbo bag stowage and handling

London P&I is warning owners, operators and charterers to take care when loading Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers, or jumbo bags, containing dry chemicals. Incorrect stowage or handling, or failure to follow the relevant IMO guidance and Flag State requirements, could prejudice P&I cover.

We have raised this issue repeatedly over the past few years after a number of incidents across the industry. The risks are significant when loading jumbo bags, especially where operators do not follow all relevant requirements for storage and handling.

To help owners, operators and the wider industry understand these risks, London P&I has produced a detailed case study based on a fictional bulk carrier, MV Calm Sea. The case study is designed as a training resource to help identify risks, liabilities and best practices. The video can be viewed or downloaded from here.

Ian Barr, Director at London P&I, said:

Serious problems can also arise when FIBCs are stored incorrectly with break bulk or steel cargoes. This can damage the integrity of the jumbo bags and lead to significant spillage, delays, fines or claims. We urge owners, operators, charterers and Masters to be especially vigilant when developing stowage plans and loading FIBCs and other big bags onboard. They should alert us immediately so that assistance can be sought from qualified industry experts before proceeding.

P&I cover may be prejudiced where there is non-compliance with applicable regulations adopted by the Flag State for the storage of jumbo bags. These include the International Maritime Organization's International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the Cargo Securing Manual (CSM), the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code) and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code).