Hold Cleanliness Inspection
Before the cargo is loaded onto a vessel, it is crucial to conduct cleanliness inspections of the ship’s cargo holds and hatch coamings. This inspection is performed with the hatch covers open, during daylight hours, to ensure a thorough assessment of the condition of the holds for the cargo in consideration.
The inspection helps to prevent contamination of the cargo, ensuring that it arrives at its destination in the best possible condition. This is particularly important for perishable goods or sensitive materials that may be adversely affected by exposure to dirt, dust, or other contaminants. Further, cleanliness inspections help to maintain the integrity of the ship’s cargo holds. By identifying and addressing any issues such as leaks, cracks, or damage to the hatch coamings, necessary repairs can be made to prevent any potential damage to the cargo during transport.
The condition if the cargo holds needs to adhere to the following standards:
- Free of previous cargo residue
- Clean and dry, and free of odours
- With paint surfaces in good condition, free of rust scale
- Tank top free of extra D-rings or container fittings
- Bilge wells clean and dry, bilge covers, access covers properly secured
Hold cleanliness certificate can be provided upon successful completion of the inspection if required.
Hatch sealing inspection
The purpose of hatch sealing inspection is to ensure that no contamination or loss of cargo occurs during the sea voyage. To achieve this, all cargo holds are accessed and sealed using box seals or lead wire seals. These seals provide a tamper-evident barrier, giving assurance that the cargo remains intact and protected.
Once the inspection is completed, a Hatch Sealing Certificate is provided to the vessel. This certificate serves as proof that the cargo holds have been properly sealed and are ready for the sea voyage.
