July 8 - The Swedish Club has released a new report titled 'Heavy Weather' which offers guidance on how to avoid the problems associated with heavy weather conditions.
It explains how, with the correct preparation and procedures, a vessel can minimise the effects of sailing through heavy weather. The advice is backed up by case studies, which demonstrate that planning the route properly, reducing speed and altering course when required are the best methods of prevention.
Statistics show that heavy lift, container and ro-ro vessels are at the highest risk of suffering hull damage with the majority of all hull and machinery (H&M) heavy weather claims occurring in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Ro-ro vessels are of particular interest as heavy weather claims cover both damage to the cargo, but also hull damage associated with incorrectly secured cargo.
Lars Malm, director of strategic business development & client relationship at the Swedish Club, explains: "Warnings about the development of a hurricane or other serious weather phenomenon are usually available many days before the weather arrives. The key is how this information is being used and what preventive measures are being taken. We see examples of the crew not managing to avoid the heavy weather, not slowing down or altering course to avoid large waves pounding the vessel."
And ports do not always offer a place of safety. "Ironically we have also dealt with cases of the damage that can be caused if the vessel stays in port when heavy weather is approaching," he adds. "There can be damage not only to the vessel itself but also to other vessels and facilities, in addition to an increasing risk of running aground."
To read the whole report visit http://www.eyemag.se/core/main.php?SITEID=21b48&PROJECTNR=4937&
