In the world of shipping, the safety and protection of the cargo are of utmost importance. One of the most common causes of damage to dry bulk cargoes is the ingress of water into the holds of bulk carriers, which is mainly due to inadequate maintenance or improper repairs to the hatch covers. This can lead to serious consequences, such as fire if the cargo is prone to self-ignition when wet, accelerated corrosion, or even loss of ship stability due to cargo liquefaction.
In this context, proper maintenance is not just a routine, it is a critical series of actions that protects the cargo, the ship, and, most importantly, the crew. To ensure the correct operation and watertight integrity of the hatch covers, follow the maintenance steps below:
In summary, effective maintenance can be achieved at minimal cost, provided that both the crew and shore personnel apply correct procedures and remain constantly vigilant for any problems.
Source: Britannia P&I Club
