Web Alert: Concerns for Safety of Nickel Ore loading operations in Surigao, Mindanao

Members are advised that PANDI Philippines Inc. have issued warnings regarding persistent heavy rainfall in the Surigao area of Mindanao and the effect of the nickel ore trade which are a cause of concern for masters intending to load nickel ore cargo. A recent bulletin by PANDI Philippines Inc. warns that masters of vessels who have rejected barges of nickel ore cargo in the region have been threatened. In some cases, masters have loaded barges of nickel ore against the advice of P&I correspondents. Where independent analysis of cargoes have been conducted, the cargo has been found to have higher moisture content then that stated on the shipper’s declaration, which has immediate implications for vessel safety.

PANDIMAN Philippines Inc. are advising vessels intending to load nickel ore in this area to make arrangements prior to their arrival to obtain samples of the proposed cargo for independent analysis. This is to ensure that an accurate picture of the cargoes moisture content can be obtained. For full details please see the attached circular dated 1 October 2016.

カテゴリー: Cargo