Stop Loss 17 - Guidelines for Carriage of Cargo in Non-Operating Reefers
In order to minimise empty repositioning costs, container operators frequently use reefer containers in a 'non-operating' mode to carry approved dry cargo - either on a return leg or to re-position the equipment without operating the refrigeration machinery.
Transporting 'non-operating reefer' (NOR) cargo enables the carriage of additional cargo, where reefers need to be positioned for their next cargo move, but are competing for slot space with revenue-earning dry cargo. Because of the differences between General Purpose and Refrigerated containers (both the design and the materials), additional considerations are necessary in relation to approval of cargo to be carried in this way and the packing requirements that need to be taken into account.
A new document entitled 'Guidelines for the Carriage of Cargoes in Non-Operating Reefer Containers' has been published by the Container Owners Association (
This is a joint publication of CINS and the International Group of P&I Clubs outlining updated guidlines for the safe carriage of seed cake in containers.
The UK P&I Club recently held a Webinar on the subject of Mooring operations and safety; the Webinar received overwhelming response with about 2350 registrations from 78 countries.
Hold preparation is probably the most vital part of bulk carrier operations; if it is not undertaken properly, it can result in substantial cargo claims, delays, additional cleaning, survey costs and expensive off-hire disputes.
In collaboration with I.M.E.Q., Sophia Bullard, Crew Health Director at UK P&I Club, discusses the issue of grief and its impact on crew, exploring the stages, signs and symptoms of grief, as well as coping mechanisms.
