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In recent years, Gard has handled a number of claims involving the carriage of scrap metal in bulk and, from time to time, we get enquiries from Members for guidance on the handling and carriage of this cargo. Ship operators and masters should be aware of the risks related to scrap metal carriage and take risk mitigation actions accordingly.
Categories of scrap metal
There are two main categories of scrap metal covered in the IMSBC Code, namely Scrap Metal and Ferrous materials in the form of iron metal borings, shavings, turnings or cuttings. Described in the IMSBC Code – “Scrap” iron or steel covers an enormous range of ferrous metals, principally intended for recycling. It may include articles from the size of car bodies to fine metal turnings (swarf). The weight of individual pieces will also vary greatly, ranging from heavy machinery to tin cans. Metal drillings [are] usually wet or contaminated with such materials as unsaturated cutting oil, oily rags and other combustible material.
Risks when handling and carrying scrap metal
Some risks originate from the cargo itself as highlighted in the IMSBC Code, while many more are from the impurities of the metal scrap in bulk.
Recommendations
The crew should be made aware of the risks in the handling and carriage of scrap metal. Appropriate PPE should be worn to mitigate the potential health risks. Entry into the cargo spaces containing this cargo should only be conducted by trained personnel following all safety procedures. Enclosed space training materials can be found here.
Useful links
By Bruce Liu
Loss Prevention Executive, Hong Kong
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