Liberia issued a advisory to draw the attention of shipowners, operators, inspectors, masters and crew to the hazards associated with in-transit fumigation of cargo using Phosphides.
Fumigation is the process of releasing toxic gases (pesticides) into a cargo hold or compartment for the purpose of eliminating or avoiding infestation by insects or other pests that may cause the cargo to deteriorate. Fumigation may take place either prior to /or after loading the cargo. In-transit fumigation is preferred by shippers and charterers because it reduces time in port. In recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of marine casualty incidents related to in-transit fumigation. In this regard, the Administration has recently investigated two incidents, one of which resulted in a fatality:
In the first incident, a crew member was fatally injured after attempting to open a hatch entrance cover during the topping up process of the Phosphide tablets. The excessive pressure from the Phosphine gas caused the hatch cover to break loose from the hinged joint and strike the crewmember.
In the second incident, smoke was seen emanating from the cargo hold. In both incidents, crew members were required to assist the fumigation technician including the removal of the fumigation sleeves from the cargo holds.
Read Advisory
