Case study
A recent claim involved a cargo of
Potash loaded in bulk. On arrival at the
discharge port, a significant amount of
cargo was found to be wet.
The investigation concluded:
–– although there was double valve
segregation between the bilge and
ballast pump line, one butterfly
valve had a damaged seal and was
leaking, while the other valve was
not closed properly. It was blocked
with residues of the previous cargo;
–– the ship’s officers were not familiar
with the cargo hold bilge system or
where the bilge and ballast systems
were common;
–– there were no cargo hold bilge
high-level alarms;
–– soundings had not been taken
throughout the voyage.
The cost of the claim for the damaged
cargo was €300,000.