In May 2013, the UK P&I Club, Lloyd's Register and Intercargo produced a pocket guide for ship's officers and agents who arrange solid bulk cargoes for loading.The Club is happy to announce that the pocket checklist is now available in Chinese.

When bulk cargoes shift, liquefy, catch fire or explode as a consequence of poor loading procedures, the consequences can be massive. Ships may capsize, lose stability or sustain severe structural damage.

Such happenings enhance the risks - and the occurrence - of death, injury, insurance claims, operational delay and considerable expense.

This has prompted the UK P&I Club, Lloyd's Register and Intercargo to produce a pocket guide and checklist for ship's officer and agents who arrange cargoes for loading.

Carrying solid bulk cargoes safely: Guidance for crews on the International Solid Bulk Cargoes Code

outlines the precautions to be taken before accepting solid bulk cargoes for shipment; sets out procedures for safe loading and carriage and details the primary hazards associated with different types of cargoes. A quick reference checklist and flowchart summarise the steps to be followed.