Sampling of dangerous & noxious liquid cargo onboard chemical tankers
Why cargo sampling ? Cargo samples are evidence of the condition of the product during the various phases of transport (storage at terminal, arriving on board, loading, passage, discharging). This procedure describes sample-taking procedures and the legal background. Suitable PPE is to be worn when taking samples. Sample bottle to be flushed prior collecting sample.
For protection against possible cargo claims it is very important that cargo sampling is correctly carried out. The following is normally required ;
How many samples are taken depends on the conditions in the charter party and the type of cargo. Unless specified otherwise, as a general rule a sealed sample should be taken for every tank carrying cargo. Samples taken by the vessel bearing no signature from the surveyor or other authorised person, unless a very good documented sample log is kept by the vessel, have no real value as evidence in legal actions.
Samples must be taken at the manifold where it is permitted, prior to releasing cargo to the tanks to ensure that Shore lines are clean and correct cargo being loaded. Whenever more than one tank is to be loaded with the same cargo, cargo is to be loaded one by one line/tank at a time to avoid contamination of whole cargo system when loading 1st foot.
After examination of the tanks, mudboxes, piping etc (as far as possible) for cleanliness it is usual to load sensitive chemicals into the ship's tanks to a level of approximately 0, 3 m and then take samples from the tanks, presuming that any previous residues in the piping are by then dissolved into the new cargo (''soak test"). Similarly samples are taken from an initial discharge into container tanks or similar located on the shore before commencing unloading at full rate to the shore storage tanks.
If a "soak test" upon loading is turned down by the surveyor or the shipper and loading stopped, the chief officer should then request sealed and identified samples of the cargo lot in question, from the ship's tanks as well as from the shore tanks. By these means the shipowner may be able to protect his interests in case of any dispute.
Sometimes drip-samples are taken from the loading manifold during loading. This method is simple, but not always fully representative. The pumping rate may vary during the transfer, whilst the sampling rate is more or less constant. Furthermore it is difficult to guarantee the proper identity of a sample taken over a long period of time. This is not meant to discourage the ship’s officers from taking a drip-sample during loading, but only to mention the weak points of the method. In fact, drip-sample during loading may be the only way to establish whether a cargo was contaminated during the pumping on board or ashore.
Before unloading cargo samples are normally taken from the ship's tanks. The cargo samples should be sealed and marked on board, particularly if no independent surveyor is present. The ship should keep one sample for future reference in case of any disputes arising. The samples should be stored in a dark and cool room especially put aside for this purpose. The room should have steel bulkheads and be open to the weather deck.
Samples of products which deteriorate or change with, time (e g styrene, vegetable oils) have a limited purposeful storage time on board. With e g phosphoric acid the samples may remain representative as regards chemical composition, but may not be so as regards contents of sediments, However, normally the samples are stored one year, which is the normal respite for making any claim.
Sampling at deep levels is carried out with containers which are lowered upside down or have valves or other means of filling themselves up at the deeper level. Sampling at various different levels is necessary for products which have a tendency to stratify, viz phosphoric acid which may contain a higher percentage of solids near the tank bottom than at top level.
Safety precautions
Sampling is risky, vapours or spray from the product may cause poisoning, caustic burns or scalding of personnel. Release of small amounts of products may also cause problems on deck or the environment (terminal, water). For these reasons, it is absolutely necessary to comply with the strictest safety regulations and the requirements of the material safety data sheets.
When samples are taken through tank openings (hatches), personnel should stay to the windward side of the opening. Depending on the properties of the cargo, suitable protective clothing should be worn as required. When taking samples from lines under pressure the risk of spray from the product should be taken into account.
Closed sampling to be carried out whenever possible except at manifold.
Sampling should not take place until 30 minutes after loading has been completed to ensure any static charges have been dissipated. Earthing requirements of the instrument must always be complied with, as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The bonding connection must be tested by ship staff prior to each cargo operation and if any abnormalities are found, the instrument is to be withdrawn from service until rectified.
Labels
The labels of the cargo samples must at least contain the following information:
All samples that remain onboard are to be properly stored in the sample locker. A list of all samples stored, the method of disposal of all samples (including a record of receipts when these are disposed of ashore) is to be maintained by the Chief Officer.
The storage space should be made of materials fully resistant to the different chemicals intended to be stowed and to be cell divided in order to avoid shifting of the bottles at sea. Samples that may react with each other dangerously are not to be stowed close to each other. Incompatible cargo samples to be stowed separately following a cargo compatibility chart as per 46CFR. Adequate ventilation (not necessarily mechanical) is to be provided at the storage space.
It is prohibited to store Chemical / Oil samples (even for brief periods) in rooms or lockers not intended for this purpose.
The Chief Officer is to maintain a record of all samples with the date, grade, source and disposal date / method.
In general, samples can be disposed off three (3) months after discharge of the cargo, unless: There is a cargo claim, or There are special instructions from Charterers.
Propylene Oxide (PO Mixtures) and Acrylic Acid samples, due to their hazardous nature, must not be stored onboard.
The Chief Officer has to preventively authorise any cargo sample disposal. Cargo samples may be disposed of in the following manner.
a) Delivered to a shore reception facility and a certificate of receipt issued.
b) Added to either:
i) Tank cleaning waters of a similar grade having the same pollution category and chemical compatibility (MARPOL Annex 2 cargo) or
ii) Slops (MARPOL Annex 1) As soon as the cargo sample is disposed of accordingly, the log book should be up-dated with the required information.
Sampling on land
Samples from the land tank and line are always taken by the independent surveyor, without a ship’s representative being present.
Sampling on board
Sampling on board should always be witnessed by an officer. All personnel involved in sampling operations must wear the appropriate protective equipment for the Chemicals to be sampled prior to the commencement of the operation.
Sampling cargo under nitrogen blanket
In case of cargoes loaded and transported under permanent nitrogen blanket, the samples must not be taken through tank openings, since otherwise the moisture and/or oxygen in the air might react with the cargo. Sampling can only be done by means of a suitable valve and pumping around or with help of the closed sampling device or at pump stack running cargo pump. All safety regulations applicable for the situation and the cargo must be complied with.
Release of samples to third parties
Samples must only be released to third parties under direct instructions from Charterers and/or Management Office and a detailed receipt has to be obtained for each sample. Samples relating to a cargo claim may only be handed over to a representative of a P&I Club and after getting a receipt for the same.
Disposal of samples
Samples should only be disposed of to approved shore reception facilities and receipts for the disposal must be obtained and maintained onboard.
Sampling programme
A complete sampling programme consists of the following elements:
Line Flushing
If a product is to be loaded into several tanks, either a certain amount of cargo is transferred from tank to tank until in the last a foot sample can be taken, or all tanks will receive ‘one foot’ cargo. Circulation rinsing with product may be required to wash lines Washing of tanks using re-circulated cargo to obtain satisfactory samples is not to be undertaken without direct management office approval and special safety precautions.
Related Info:
Following reference publications provide useful guidance and international regulations for carrying hazardous chemicals at sea.
Main Info pages!
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Chemicaltankerguide.com is merely an informational site about various aspects of chemical tankers and safety tips that may be particular value to those working in: Chemical Handling, Chemical Storage, Liquefied Chemical Suppliers, Chemical Shipping, Chemical Transportation, Chemical Terminals, Bulk Chemical Services and Chemical Processing. If you are interested in finding out more about chemical tanker guideline please visit IMO official website. For any comment please Contact us
Copyright © 2011 Chemical Tanker Guide.com All rights reserved.
Why cargo sampling ? Cargo samples are evidence of the condition of the product during the various phases of transport (storage at terminal, arriving on board, loading, passage, discharging). This procedure describes sample-taking procedures and the legal background. Suitable PPE is to be worn when taking samples. Sample bottle to be flushed prior collecting sample.
For protection against possible cargo claims it is very important that cargo sampling is correctly carried out. The following is normally required ;
- Manifold, 1st foot and completion of loading sample for each tank
- Manifold, tank sample prior discharging
- Cargo sample register to be maintained
- All samples to be sealed and sampling to be witnessed by ship staff
- Cargo samples are to be retained onboard for a maximum of 12 months, thereafter disposed off ashore and record maintained
- In case of cargo quality dispute, retain ship samples carefully
- Ensure sample bottles, sample lines and closed sampling cans are completely clean prior collecting samples. Contaminated ropes will contaminate samples.
How many samples are taken depends on the conditions in the charter party and the type of cargo. Unless specified otherwise, as a general rule a sealed sample should be taken for every tank carrying cargo. Samples taken by the vessel bearing no signature from the surveyor or other authorised person, unless a very good documented sample log is kept by the vessel, have no real value as evidence in legal actions.
Samples must be taken at the manifold where it is permitted, prior to releasing cargo to the tanks to ensure that Shore lines are clean and correct cargo being loaded. Whenever more than one tank is to be loaded with the same cargo, cargo is to be loaded one by one line/tank at a time to avoid contamination of whole cargo system when loading 1st foot.
After examination of the tanks, mudboxes, piping etc (as far as possible) for cleanliness it is usual to load sensitive chemicals into the ship's tanks to a level of approximately 0, 3 m and then take samples from the tanks, presuming that any previous residues in the piping are by then dissolved into the new cargo (''soak test"). Similarly samples are taken from an initial discharge into container tanks or similar located on the shore before commencing unloading at full rate to the shore storage tanks.
If a "soak test" upon loading is turned down by the surveyor or the shipper and loading stopped, the chief officer should then request sealed and identified samples of the cargo lot in question, from the ship's tanks as well as from the shore tanks. By these means the shipowner may be able to protect his interests in case of any dispute.
Sometimes drip-samples are taken from the loading manifold during loading. This method is simple, but not always fully representative. The pumping rate may vary during the transfer, whilst the sampling rate is more or less constant. Furthermore it is difficult to guarantee the proper identity of a sample taken over a long period of time. This is not meant to discourage the ship’s officers from taking a drip-sample during loading, but only to mention the weak points of the method. In fact, drip-sample during loading may be the only way to establish whether a cargo was contaminated during the pumping on board or ashore.
Before unloading cargo samples are normally taken from the ship's tanks. The cargo samples should be sealed and marked on board, particularly if no independent surveyor is present. The ship should keep one sample for future reference in case of any disputes arising. The samples should be stored in a dark and cool room especially put aside for this purpose. The room should have steel bulkheads and be open to the weather deck.
Samples of products which deteriorate or change with, time (e g styrene, vegetable oils) have a limited purposeful storage time on board. With e g phosphoric acid the samples may remain representative as regards chemical composition, but may not be so as regards contents of sediments, However, normally the samples are stored one year, which is the normal respite for making any claim.
Sampling at deep levels is carried out with containers which are lowered upside down or have valves or other means of filling themselves up at the deeper level. Sampling at various different levels is necessary for products which have a tendency to stratify, viz phosphoric acid which may contain a higher percentage of solids near the tank bottom than at top level.
Safety precautions
Sampling is risky, vapours or spray from the product may cause poisoning, caustic burns or scalding of personnel. Release of small amounts of products may also cause problems on deck or the environment (terminal, water). For these reasons, it is absolutely necessary to comply with the strictest safety regulations and the requirements of the material safety data sheets.
When samples are taken through tank openings (hatches), personnel should stay to the windward side of the opening. Depending on the properties of the cargo, suitable protective clothing should be worn as required. When taking samples from lines under pressure the risk of spray from the product should be taken into account.
Closed sampling to be carried out whenever possible except at manifold.
Sampling should not take place until 30 minutes after loading has been completed to ensure any static charges have been dissipated. Earthing requirements of the instrument must always be complied with, as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The bonding connection must be tested by ship staff prior to each cargo operation and if any abnormalities are found, the instrument is to be withdrawn from service until rectified.
Labels
The labels of the cargo samples must at least contain the following information:
- Name of the vessel
- Port of loading
- Cargo
- Tank
- Date and time
- Signature, voyage no. of Chief Officer and where possible, the surveyor.
All samples that remain onboard are to be properly stored in the sample locker. A list of all samples stored, the method of disposal of all samples (including a record of receipts when these are disposed of ashore) is to be maintained by the Chief Officer.
The storage space should be made of materials fully resistant to the different chemicals intended to be stowed and to be cell divided in order to avoid shifting of the bottles at sea. Samples that may react with each other dangerously are not to be stowed close to each other. Incompatible cargo samples to be stowed separately following a cargo compatibility chart as per 46CFR. Adequate ventilation (not necessarily mechanical) is to be provided at the storage space.
It is prohibited to store Chemical / Oil samples (even for brief periods) in rooms or lockers not intended for this purpose.
The Chief Officer is to maintain a record of all samples with the date, grade, source and disposal date / method.
In general, samples can be disposed off three (3) months after discharge of the cargo, unless: There is a cargo claim, or There are special instructions from Charterers.
Propylene Oxide (PO Mixtures) and Acrylic Acid samples, due to their hazardous nature, must not be stored onboard.
The Chief Officer has to preventively authorise any cargo sample disposal. Cargo samples may be disposed of in the following manner.
a) Delivered to a shore reception facility and a certificate of receipt issued.
b) Added to either:
i) Tank cleaning waters of a similar grade having the same pollution category and chemical compatibility (MARPOL Annex 2 cargo) or
ii) Slops (MARPOL Annex 1) As soon as the cargo sample is disposed of accordingly, the log book should be up-dated with the required information.
Sampling on land
Samples from the land tank and line are always taken by the independent surveyor, without a ship’s representative being present.
Sampling on board
Sampling on board should always be witnessed by an officer. All personnel involved in sampling operations must wear the appropriate protective equipment for the Chemicals to be sampled prior to the commencement of the operation.
Sampling cargo under nitrogen blanket
In case of cargoes loaded and transported under permanent nitrogen blanket, the samples must not be taken through tank openings, since otherwise the moisture and/or oxygen in the air might react with the cargo. Sampling can only be done by means of a suitable valve and pumping around or with help of the closed sampling device or at pump stack running cargo pump. All safety regulations applicable for the situation and the cargo must be complied with.
Release of samples to third parties
Samples must only be released to third parties under direct instructions from Charterers and/or Management Office and a detailed receipt has to be obtained for each sample. Samples relating to a cargo claim may only be handed over to a representative of a P&I Club and after getting a receipt for the same.
Disposal of samples
Samples should only be disposed of to approved shore reception facilities and receipts for the disposal must be obtained and maintained onboard.
Sampling programme
A complete sampling programme consists of the following elements:
- Sample from the shore tank/line
- Manifold sample
- Sample from the ship’s line and/or pump stack.
Line Flushing
If a product is to be loaded into several tanks, either a certain amount of cargo is transferred from tank to tank until in the last a foot sample can be taken, or all tanks will receive ‘one foot’ cargo. Circulation rinsing with product may be required to wash lines Washing of tanks using re-circulated cargo to obtain satisfactory samples is not to be undertaken without direct management office approval and special safety precautions.
Related Info:
-
Edible oils Heating Instructions
Heating instructions should also be detailed, and these should state the in-transit temperature, loading/ discharging temperature and the allowed daily rate of increase of temperature. Rapid heating of certain grades can cause scorching of the cargo, and overheating the cargo can promote oxidation, hydrolysis, scorching and discoloration of the cargo. Rapid heating can also cause an increase in FFA content, which causes the load to turn sour, and is used as a measure of cargo quality, especially for palm oil. -
What is putrefaction process of liquid chemicals ?
Most animal and vegetable oils undergo decomposition over time, a natural process known as putrefaction (going off), that generates obnoxious and toxic vapours and depletes the oxygen in the tank. Tanks that have contained such products must be carefully ventilated and the atmosphere tested prior to tank entry . ..... -
Carriage of inhibited flammable chemical products in cargo tanks
In certain conditions of heat, pressure and in the presence of Oxygen, some chemical cargo types can become viscous and possibly solid and dense in nature. This self reaction can cause some cargoes , especially in the presence of high temperatures and Oxygen, to begin an exothermic reaction, becoming self heating and rapidly expanding which may result in possibly disastrous consequences for the vessel. -
Cargo sampling safety precautions
Cargo samples are evidence of the condition of the product during the various phases of transport (storage at terminal, arriving on board, loading, passage, discharging). This procedure describes sample-taking procedures and the legal background. Suitable PPE is to be worn when taking samples. Sample bottle to be flushed prior collecting sample. ..... -
Cargo segregation requirement for chemical tankers
In the case of two or more liquid chemical cargoes which react with one another in a hazardous manner, segregation must be done The product data sheets, together with the BCH/IBC Codes are to be studies carefully to determine the compatibility restrictions when carrying different groups of cargoes. -
How to avoid solidification in cargo tanks ?
Solidification in the cargo tanks can occur when solidifying cargoes are stowed adjacent to “cold cargoes” or cold ballast water in adjacent spaces. Tank bottoms must therefore always be checked for hard factions especially when carrying vegetable and animal oils, at regular intervals throughout the voyage and always prior to arrival in the discharge port. -
Cargo compatibility and reactivity of various chemical cargo
Transporting of dangerous and noxious liquid chemicals in bulk involved various risk factors. Between some chemicals violent reactions may occur if the chemicals are mixed in certain proportions. The result may possibly be an eruption and tank rupture. Such an occurrance must be prevented. Water may also have to be considered in this respect. -
Determining presence of contaminants
in chemical cargo
To maintain product quality onboard modern chemical tankers any contaminants in the cargo need to be observed. Following guideline may be useful determining various product contaminants in noxious liquid chemicals. -
Ship shore cargo connection safe method
The connection at the manifold of hoses or metal cargo arms for cargo handling is the primary cargo connection between ship and shore, and it is essential that both parties take proper care preparing for the connection. Flange faces, gaskets and seals used at this point should be clean and in good condition. Minimum standards for hoses are laid down in the IBC Code. The hoses should be in good condition and installed with gaskets which are suitable for the chemical product to be handled. -
Venting of cargo tanks safety procedure
Cargo tanks of a chemical tanker are required to be provided with venting systems to prevent both over and under pressurisation of the tank. Two types of venting system are specified by the Code, namely “open” and “controlled”. -
Ship to ship transfer operation
The ship to ship (STS) transfer of cargoes carried on chemical tankers is a frequent operation, and the following article addresses some special safety aspects of the preparations and procedures that may be found necessary for STS operations. -
Ship shore safety checklist while alongside a terminal
Due regard should be given to the need for adequate fendering arrangements. Ships should remain adequately secured in their moorings. Alongside piers or quays, ranging of the ship should be prevented by keeping all mooring lines taut: attention should be given to the movement of the ship caused by wind, currents, tides or passing ships and the operation in progress. Wire ropes and fibre ropes should not be used together in the same direction (i.e. breasts, springs, head or stern) because of the difference in their elastic properties. -
Cargo compatibility chart for handling dangerous liquid chemicals in bulk
Determine the group numbers of the two cargoes by referring to the alphabetical listing of cargoes and the corresponding groups. Many cargoes are listed under their parent names: unless otherwise indicated, isomers or mixtures of isomers of a particular cargo are assigned to the same group. - Cargo handling safe practice for chemical products
Check cargo hoses to see that they have not deteriorated, that flange connections are intact, that there is an electrical bond between hose flanges and that the working pressure for the hose is marked on it. If there is any doubt about the hose's condition, find out when the hose was last pressure tested . -
Risk with noxious liquid cargo contact
Different chemicals affect the human body in many different ways. A general information and some practical advice are available in Appendix,7, of "Medical first aid guide for use in accidents involving dangerous goods" published by IMO, WHO and ILO ref (36). -
How take a sample of noxious liquid cargo ?
Cargo samples are evidence of the condition of the product during the various phases of transport (storage at terminal, arriving on board, loading, passage, discharging).For protection against possible cargo claims it is very important that cargo sampling is correctly carried out.
Following reference publications provide useful guidance and international regulations for carrying hazardous chemicals at sea.
- SOLAS (latest consolidated edition)
- MARPOL – 73/78 (latest consolidated edition)
- BCH / IBC Code
- International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals (ISGOTT)
- Tanker Safety Guide (Chemicals)
- Ship to Ship Transfer Guide (Petroleum)
- Safety in Oil Tankers
- Safety in Chemical Tankers
- IMDG Code
- Supplement to IMDG Code (Including MFAG and Ems)
- SOPEP
- Clean Seas Guide for Oil Tankers
- FOSFA (for Oils, Seeds and Fats)
- Prevention of Oil Spillage through Cargo Pumproom Sea Valves
- CHRIS Guide (USCG)
- Chemical Data Guide for Bulk Shipment by Water (Condensed Chris)
- MSDS for particular cargo carried
- Chemical Tank Cleaning Guide
Main Info pages!
Home page ||| Chemical hazards ||| Cargo planning & Stowage ||| Cargo loading ||| Cargo documents ||| Safe stability ||| Cargo care ||| Preparation for unloading ||| Inert gas systems |||Gas freeing ||| Nitrogen handling ||| Chemical handling Safe practice |||Handling equipments ||| Cargo & Ballast pumps ||| Cargo tanks |||Tank cleaning |||Special cargoes |||Spills emergencies |||Fire protection
Chemicaltankerguide.com is merely an informational site about various aspects of chemical tankers and safety tips that may be particular value to those working in: Chemical Handling, Chemical Storage, Liquefied Chemical Suppliers, Chemical Shipping, Chemical Transportation, Chemical Terminals, Bulk Chemical Services and Chemical Processing. If you are interested in finding out more about chemical tanker guideline please visit IMO official website. For any comment please Contact us
Copyright © 2011 Chemical Tanker Guide.com All rights reserved.