Warning: Members risk voiding P&I cover through incorrect stowage and handling of jumbo bags

Ship owners, operators and charterers must address potential risks when loading Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs), or ‘jumbo bags’ containing dry chemicals. Failure to strictly comply with all relevant International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations and guidance governing the storage and handling of jumbo bags could prejudice P&I cover.

The Club has been warning of this issue repeatedly over the past few years following a number of incidents reported across the industry. To help operators and wider industry to understand the risks, the Club has now developed a detailed case study of a fictional bulk carrier MV Calm Sea, which can be used as a training resource for identifying risks, liabilities and best practices. The video can be viewed or downloaded from here.

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

“Serious problems also occur when FIBCs are stored incorrectly with break bulk or steel cargoes, which can damage the integrity of the jumbo bags and cause significant spillage leading to delays, fines or claims. We urge owners, operators, charterers and Masters to be extra 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 in the case of non-compliance with applicable regulations as adopted by the Flag State in relation to the storage of jumbo bags. This includes the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 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.