Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers - First Edition Reviews

'Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers - First Edition' provides practical guidance for Masters and vessel operators conducting dry bulk STS operations. Covering planning, safety, communication and emergency procedures and best practices, it supports safe and efficient transfers in alignment with Safety Management Systems and regulatory requirements. Detailed Overview These guidelines offer comprehensive guidance for Masters and technical operators involved in ship to ship (STS) transfers of dry bulk cargoes. It outlines the fundamental principles, planning and preparedness measures, safety and environmental considerations, mooring procedures and emergency response protocols critical to the safe execution of STS operations. The publication addresses various STS transfer types including operations involving barges, transloaders and floating cranes. It defines the roles and responsibilities of key participants such as Masters, STS organisers and stevedores while detailing requirements for equipment, communication, risk assessment and personal safety. With dedicated chapters on operational phases and a set of structured checklists, the guidelines aim to enhance safety, reduce risk and promote best practices across all stages of STS transfers. They are intended to be used alongside each operator?s Safety Management System (SMS) and applicable regulations. Introduction Foreword I am honoured and delighted to have been invited to provide the foreword to this excellent INTERCARGO publication on ship to ship (STS) transfers. These operations are an important part of maritime trade enabling the efficient movement of cargo between vessels without the need for a port call. As international trade continues to expand and diversify, STS transfers continue to provide flexibility and operational efficiency – particularly in regions where port congestion, inadequate infrastructure, vessel draft limitations, or geographical constraints present challenges to the operation of ships. This publication provides a comprehensive overview of STS transfer practices, highlighting the technical, operational, and regulatory considerations that underpin safe and effective execution of essential operations. It addresses the standards adopted by the IMO, the importance of effective risk management, and the role of innovation in enhancing safety and environmental stewardship. STS operations can present unique risks (weather and environmental conditions, exposed operation area, traffic risks, mooring vessels to one another etc). Whether you are a maritime professional, regulator, or stakeholder in the shipping industry, this resource serves as a guide to best practices in STS operations. By fostering knowledge and adherence to global standards, we collectively contribute to safer seas and sustainable maritime trade. Nick Shaw CEO The International Group of P&I Clubs Contents Listing Glossary Abbreviations References Preamble/Forward Introduction Chapter 1 Basic Principles, Conditions & Requirements 1. Basic Principles, Conditions and Requirements 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Type of STS Operations 1.2.1 Ship to Barge/Barge to Ship Operation 1.2.2 Ship to Ship Operation 1.2.3 Ship to Transloader Operation 1.2.4 Ship to Ship Operation via Floating Cranes or Transshipment unit 1.3 Elements in Dry Bulk STS Operations 1.3.1 Coastal Authorities 1.3.2 Transfer Area/Dedicated Anchorages 1.3.3 STS Organizer 1.3.4 Shore Personnel/Stevedores 1.3.5 Crew 1.3.6 Support Ships and Tugs 1.3.7 Cargo {IMSBC Code} 1.3.8 Equipment 1.4 Roles and Responsibilities 1.4.1 Master 1.4.2 STS Organizer 1.4.3 The STS Superintendent/Transhipment Master 1.4.4 The Terminal Representative 1.5 Technical Operator Policies 1.5.1 Technical Operator Procedures 1.5.2 Weather Thresholds and Limitations 1.5.3 STS Plan 1.5.4 Actions and Response Plan 1.5.5 Records and Assessment Chapter 2 Planning and Preparedness 2. Planning and Preparedness 2.1 General Principles 2.2 Specific STS Plan 2.3 Risk Assessment 2.3.1 Risk Assessment of the Transfer Location 2.3.2 Risk Assessment for the Engaged Ships 2.3.3 Use of Checklists 2.4 General Communications 2.4.1 Procedures for Communication Failure 2.5 Provision of Information Prior to an STS Operation 2.5.1 Information Conveyed from Ships 2.5.2 Information Sent to Ships 2.6 Personal Protective Equipment and Lifesaving Appliances 2.7 Helicopter Operations 2.8 Fenders 2.8.1 Fender Types 2.8.2 Fender Selection Guide 2.8.3 Fender Requirements 2.8.4 Certification and Assessment 2.8.5 Fender Maintenance and Longevity Chapter 3 Safety, Security and the Environment 3. Safety, Security and the Environment 3.1 General Principles 3.2 Condition of Mooring Equipment 3.3 Safety during Cargo Transfer 3.3.1 Crane Operations 3.3.2 Hatch Cover Operations 3.3.3 Vessel Shifting During Cargo Operations 3.4 Cargo Type Hazards 3.5 Safe Watchkeeping 3.6 Personnel Transfer 3.6.1 Use of Pilot Ladders 3.6.2 Use of Special Gangways/Extendable Access Ladders 3.6.3 Personnel Transfer 3.7 Security 3.7.1 Unauthorised Craft 3.7.2 Boarding of Unauthorised Persons 3.8 Action in Case of Infringement of Safety Chapter 4 Manoeuvring, Mooring and Unmooring 4. Manoeuvring, Mooring and Unmooring 4.1 General Principles 4.2 Manoeuvring 4.2.1 Control of Operations 4.2.2 General Advice for Controlling the Two Ships 4.2.3 Advice for Manoeuvring Alongside 4.2.4 Manoeuvring with One Ship Alongside Barge 4.2.5 Use of Tugs 4.3 Mooring Operations 4.3.1 General Advice for Mooring Operations 4.3.2 Preparations for Mooring 4.3.3 Mooring Considerations 4.3.4 Anchor Holding and Considerations 4.3.5 Mooring Analysis/Plans 4.4 Unmooring 4.4.1 Preparation for Unmooring 4.4.2 Unmooring while at Anchor 4.4.3 Unmooring Using Quick Release Arrangements Chapter 5 Operations Alongside 5. Operations Alongside 5.1 General Principles 5.2 Preparations for Cargo Transfer 5.2.1 Dust Suppression System 5.2.2 Familiarization/Training/Toolbox Meeting for Stevedores 5.2.3 Lifting Appliances and Cargo Gear 5.2.4 Ballast Operations 5.2.5 Cargo Operations and Weather Limitations 5.2.6 Crane/Conveyor Operations 5.2.7 Loading/Stowage Plan 5.3 Operations after Completion of Cargo Transfer 5.3.1 Procedures after Termination of Crane Operations Chapter 6 Emergencies 6. Emergencies 6.1 General Principles 6.2 Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Procedures 6.3 Emergency Communications 6.4 Emergency Situations 6.4.1 Emergencies During Manoeuvring/Mooring/Unmooring 6.4.2 Emergencies During Cargo Transfer 6.5 State of Readiness for an Emergency 6.6 Cessation of Transfer Operations as a Precautionary Measure Chapter 7 Appendices & Checklists 7. Appendix 1 ? Checklists Checklist #1 ? Ship Details for Compatibility Assessment Checklist #2 ? Before Commencing STS Operation Checklist #3 ? Prior to Mooring Operations Checklist #4 ? Prior to Cargo Transfer Operations Checklist #5 ? Prior to Unmooring Checklist #6 ? Due Diligence for Appointed STS Service Provider (Optional) About the Author INTERCARGO The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) is representing the interests of quality dry cargo shipowners. INTERCARGO convened for the first time in 1980 in London and has been participating with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1993. INTERCARGO provides the forum where dry bulk shipowners, managers and operators are informed about, discuss and share concerns on key topics and regulatory challenges, especially in relation to safety, the environment and operational excellence. The Association takes forward its Members? positions to the IMO, as well as to other shipping and international industry fora, having free and fair competition as a principle.