Urgent Warning: Risks of Nickel Ore Shipments
Gard has issued a critical alert to its members and clients regarding the dangers associated with transporting nickel ore, particularly from the Philippines. This warning follows a tragic incident where a bulk carrier capsized off the Philippine coast, resulting in the loss of crew members. Although the cause of the accident remains under investigation, it has reignited concerns about the safety of nickel ore shipments from the region, known for their risk of liquefaction and cargo instability.
Concerns Over Nickel Ore Shipments
The transportation of nickel ore from the Philippines has long been a significant safety issue in the maritime industry. According to Intercargo’s ‘Bulk Carrier Casualty Report 2015-2024’, liquefaction of mineral ores has been a leading cause of marine accidents for decades. The recent sinking of a vessel carrying nickel ore serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks faced by crews and bulk carriers globally.
One of the primary concerns is the loading of cargo in excessively wet conditions, often due to misdeclaration and poor moisture management by shippers. Despite a notable decrease in major casualties linked to cargo liquefaction since 2019, the recent tragedy underscores the persistent threat to safety. Gard emphasizes the need for vigilance when handling Group A cargoes, which are particularly susceptible to liquefaction.
Reports indicate that there are 14 nickel ore mining areas in the Philippines, with Gutalac Zamboanga being one of the recent loading sites for the ill-fated vessel. Surigao and its surrounding islands remain active loading regions, but they have also seen several vessels run aground in the past. Concerns have been raised about the reliability of loading certificates issued by local mines, as independent analyses often reveal discrepancies in moisture content and Flow Moisture Point (FMP) assessments.
Moreover, the infrastructure at these mining sites is inadequate. Nickel ore is typically stockpiled in open areas near the foreshore, with loading conducted offshore using uncovered barges. This exposes the cargo to the elements, increasing the risk of moisture accumulation. Changing climate patterns have further complicated matters, blurring the lines between dry and wet seasons and leading to frequent rainfall that contributes to wet cargo conditions.
Case Study: Liquefaction Incident in Surigao
In a recent case handled by Gard, a charterer faced significant challenges when nickel ore liquefied in a vessel’s holds shortly after departing Surigao for China. Fortunately, the vessel managed to reach a port of refuge in the Philippines. Investigations revealed that the shipper’s documentation, including the Shipper’s Declaration and moisture content certificates, was inaccurate. All certificates had been prepared solely by the mining company, raising serious concerns about their validity.
Additionally, the sub-charterparty included a clause that limited the ability to conduct further testing of the cargo once loaded. This clause contradicted the Master’s obligations to ensure the safety of the ship and crew, effectively shifting the responsibility for cargo safety from the shipper to the vessel. Gard advises owners and charterers to scrutinize their charterparty terms to avoid similar clauses that undermine safety and compliance with the IMSBC Code.
Members are reminded of their obligation to notify Gard if they plan to fix or charter a vessel to load nickel ore from the Philippines, as outlined in the Club’s mandatory notification requirements. This applies equally to nickel ore sourced from Indonesia. Gard’s geofencing alerts are designed to support members by highlighting the risks associated with liquefaction and offering guidance on precautionary measures.
In conclusion, the risks associated with nickel ore shipments are significant and require careful management. Discrepancies in cargo declarations and inadequate testing can lead to dangerous situations at sea. Shipowners and crews are urged to remain vigilant, conduct regular inspections, and ensure compliance with safety regulations to mitigate these risks effectively.
