Several serious marine casualties have occurred in recent years which can be attributed to the unsafe securing of cargo units on board.

Such units are typically wheeled cargo, containers, flats, pallets, portable tanks and vehicles carried on board ro-ro ships and cargo vessels other than cellular containerships.

This Administration stresses the importance that all units of cargo, and especially heavy or bulky ones, are properly secured so as to withstand the foreseeable forces and accelerations they will be subjected to during the intended voyages. when necessary, portable securing gear lashed to fixed strong points of the vessel must be used. Such gear must be of sufficient strength to prevent tipping and sliding of cargo.

Appropriate organizations or experts should be contacted to advise on the most adequate securing patterns for typical loads to be carried by the vessel. When in doubt, the Master should refuse to take on board cargoes which cannot be properly secured.

May 1992

Inquiries concerning the subject of this Circular should be directed to:
Directorate of Consular and Maritime Affairs, New York Representative Office,
Republic of Panama, 1180 Avenue of the Americas, 23rd Floor
New York, New York 10036, U.S.A.