February 7 - The National Cargo Bureau has introduced a self-study course in securing of non-standardised cargoes
The NCB says that since December 31, 1997, it is mandatory that all cargo be secured throughout the voyage in accordance with the Cargo Securing Manual approved by the vessel's Flag State Administration.
It adds that often, the standard lashing system designed for the vessel does not accommodate such items as oversize project cargo or cargo on flat-racks. If a vessel transports such cargo, Annex 13 of the IMO Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code) provides methods for calculating
satisfactory securing arrangements.
The NCB's course goes through the Advanced Calculation Method step by step and provides additional guidance specific to the securing of cargo on flat-racks, particularly with respect to calculation of lashings comprised of half-loops and application of the Rule of Thumb Method.
The course is based on materials provided, which include a copy of the latest edition (2003) of the IMO Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing. It should be of interest to surveyors, ships' officers, shippers, stevedores or anyone else involved with securing non-standardized cargo onboard a vessel or flat-rack.
The NCB says that the course is approved by U.S. Coast Guard and upon successful completion, in addition to the certificate of training, the participant may be eligible for five days sea-service credit towards a license or raise in grade. For full details of this, contact the NCB's New York Office. The price of the course is USD595.
