Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Acs SPM Rules
Acs SPM Rules
Acs SPM Rules
CRUDE OIL
CARGO
PROCEDURES
Safety & Quality Department Manager Technical Department Director Managing Board President
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES ................................................................................................... 1
1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 5
2. COMPANY CARGO HANDLING STANDING ORDERS................................................................... 6
2.1. General Orders ....................................................................................................................... 6
2.2. Before and During Loading Operations ................................................................................. 6
2.3. Before and During Discharge Operations .............................................................................. 7
3. TANKER SAFETY ......................................................................................................................... 8
3.1. Purpose and Scope ................................................................................................................. 8
3.2. General Safety Measures ....................................................................................................... 8
3.2.1. Avoiding Pressure Surges ....................................................................................... 8
3.3. Filing ....................................................................................................................................... 9
3.4. References .............................................................................................................................. 9
4. ARRIVAL IN PORT ..................................................................................................................... 10
4.1. Purpose and Scope ............................................................................................................... 10
4.2. Description of Procedure...................................................................................................... 10
4.2.1. Information on Cargo ........................................................................................... 10
4.2.2. Pre-arrival Meeting .............................................................................................. 10
4.2.3. Preparation of Cargo Tanks and Testing of Cargo System..........................................10
4.2.4. Berthing Preparation............................................................................................ 10
4.2.5. Draft ............................................................................................................................ 10
4.2.6. Various Surveys .................................................................................................... 11
4.2.7. Voyage Report...................................................................................................... 11
4.3. Filing ..................................................................................................................................... 11
4.4. 4.4 References ...................................................................................................................... 11
5. LOADING .................................................................................................................................. 12
5.1. Purpose and Scope ............................................................................................................... 12
5.2. Preparations for Loading ..................................................................................................... 12
5.2.1. General ....................................................................................................................... 12
5.2.2. Planning Loading Operations ............................................................................... 12
5.2.3. Preparation of Cargo Tanks and Systems ............................................................ 12
5.2.4. Meeting with Terminal Representatives.............................................................. 13
5.2.5. Terminal Surveyor Inspection .............................................................................. 13
5.2.6. Deballasting ......................................................................................................... 13
5.2.7. Operational Checks .............................................................................................. 13
5.2.8. Stability Control .................................................................................................... 13
5.3. Loading Operations .............................................................................................................. 13
5.4. Sampling............................................................................................................................... 14
5.5. Filing ..................................................................................................................................... 14
5.6. References ............................................................................................................................ 14
6. DEPARTURE FROM PORT ......................................................................................................... 16
6.1. Purpose and Scope ............................................................................................................... 16
6.2. Procedure ............................................................................................................................. 16
6.2.1. Port Report........................................................................................................... 16
6.2.2. Less Loaded Quantity ........................................................................................... 16
6.2.3. Various Surveys .................................................................................................... 16
6.2.4. Ship Inspection for Damages ............................................................................... 16
6.2.5. Preparation for Departure - Checklist .................................................................. 16
6.3. Filing ..................................................................................................................................... 16
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
6.4. References ............................................................................................................................ 17
7. TRANSPORT OF OIL .................................................................................................................. 18
7.1. Purpose and Scope ............................................................................................................... 18
7.2. Procedure ............................................................................................................................. 18
7.3. Filing ..................................................................................................................................... 18
7.4. References ............................................................................................................................ 18
8. DISCHARGING .......................................................................................................................... 19
1. INTRODUCTION
The Cargo Manual has been prepared for use by Master and Officers in various operational
procedures, namely with safe load and carriage of cargo.
The Master and Officers should upon joining the ship learn all ship particulars and
characteristics from the booklet Inspection Guidelines for Bulk Oil Carriers.
The crew shall follow procedures given in this and other safety and quality management
manuals, as well as Trim and Stability Book, Loading Manual, Procedures and Arrangements
Manual, inerting and COW manuals and consult International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers &
Terminals (ISGOTT), local regulations Guide to Port Entry, relevant OCIMF and other
publications. General safety precautions are given in the Safety and Environmental
Protection Manual.
The appendices to all sections can be found together in the Section 20, of this Manual.
The Master should ensure that the Officers and crew are made aware of their respective
responsibilities. Each Officer must read and understand the contents of this Manual.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
2. The manifold valve shall remain shut until the Chief Officer is satisfied in all respects
with the vessel’s readiness to load/discharge and the terminal is ready to commence
operations.
3. Close and blank unused cargo piping connections. Blank flanges shall be fully bolted.
4. The initial flow shall be loaded/discharged at a reduced rate until the Chief Officer
carries out necessary checking and informs the terminal to load/discharge at the agreed
rate.
5. Duty Officer is responsible for frequent and careful tending of moorings.
7. When handling oil cargoes a watch shall be kept on water around the vessel for oil slick.
In case of oil spillage the Ships Oil Pollution Emergency Plan shall be put into action.
8. The squeegees, shovels, buckets, etc. shall be ready by the manifold during vessel’s stay
in port, to prevent oil spill, as defined in the Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan.
9. It is responsibility of the Duty Officer to ensure that the cargo manifold area are clean
and tidy all the time. Manifold area and main deck shall be kept clean for grease, oil and
rags.
10. Scupper plugs to be in their correct position at all times.
14. Access from gangway to accommodation shall be kept clear and particularly clean.
Dirty and dangerous areas shall be closed off with ropes.
15. Catwalks and accommodation entrances shall be kept clear.
2. Ensure that necessary equipment for oil spill prevention is ready for use.
3. Ensure that fire hoses are connected on each side of the manifold and one portable
fire extinguisher is placed in the vicinity of the connected cargo hoses.
5. Make sure that the communication with the shore terminal/barge always is good either
by radio or via the Watchman on deck.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
6. The A.B./O.S. on watch shall always, during the operation, check for leakage and stand in
permanent contact with the Duty Officer by radio. The A.B./O.S. on watch are not
allowed to leave the cargo area unguarded.
7. When a tank is filled at 75% according to the remote level gauging, it has to be
double checked manually by ullage tape in order to detect difference in level.
8. When topping off tanks, one man shall be stand by at the trunk when the ullage is less
than 2 meters. The second Watchman/Pumpman shall at the same time be stand by at
the manifold valve.
9. The Duty Officer shall always try to top off tanks one by one. The Chief Officer shall always
supervise completion of loading.
10. The Duty Officer shall make sure that there are always sufficient number of opened
tanks in relation to the loading rate. The Chief Officer shall determine the maximum
loading rate for each tank.
11. Check frequently that the level in topped or/and closed tanks is in order to detect
any leakage in good/safe time.
12. The Chief Officer shall organise occasional safety rounds on deck to ensure that all is in
good working order.
13. When the tank is topped off, the cargo valve shall be immediately closed.
14. Keep loading data updated and log every hour loading rate in the
Loading/Discharging Records.
2. Ensure that necessary equipment for oil spill prevention is ready for use.
3. Ensure that fire hoses are connected on each side of the manifold and one portable
fire extinguisher is placed in the vicinity of the connected cargo hoses.
5. Make sure that the communication with the shore terminal/barge always is good either
by radio or via the Watchman on deck.
6. Never commence discharging before shore/barge has been notified and confirmed that
is clear to start.
7. The AB on watch shall always, during the operation, check for leakage and stand in
permanent contact with the Duty Officer by radio. The AB-s on watch are not allowed
to leave the cargo area unguarded.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
8. The Chief Officer shall organise occasional safety rounds on deck to ensure that all is in
good working order.
9. Keep discharging data updated and log every hour the flow rate in the
Loading/Discharging Records.
3. TANKER SAFETY
All crewmembers must in navigation, at anchor and terminals strictly comply with all
Company rules and regulations, as well as international, flag state, states in which territorial
waters the ship is operating and terminal regulations.
The tankers pose specific dangers, and the most dangerous time of the voyage is during cargo
operations.
Besides general safety precautions the Duty Officer and watch personnel shall pay particular
attention to mooring safety, fire-fighting measures, fire prevention, hot work, cold work and
explosion prevention, of the Vessel Safety Manual.
When entering the pumproom, cargo tanks and other enclosed spaces the procedure
Entry into Enclosed Space and Work in Enclosed Spaces, of the Vessel Safety Manual shall be
strictly followed.
The safety measures for inerting and crude oil washing are described in the other sections
of this Manual.
Incorrect operation of pumps or valves can produce pressure surges and cause catastrophic
consequences. The Duty Officer shall ensure that following precautions are taken:
2. It is normal to have all valves open before pumping commences, except the
pump discharge valve should be left closed until the pump starts to turn.
4. During normal operations, there should be no sudden changes in the flow rate. All
changes of flow rate should be done with close liaison between the ship and shore
personnel in charge of the operations.
5. The lines from the next tanks to the pump should always be opened before those to
the previous tank are closed.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
6. Before opening a pipeline to a liquid, the Duty Officer must ensure that the line is not
under vacuum, and this is overcome by first opening the tank valve.
8. In additions to any limitations on the ship’s lines, the limitations to the terminal’s line
should be inquired.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
3.3. Filing
All undertaken actions shall be recorded in the Deck Logbook.
3.4. References
7. VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL – Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Crude Oil
Washing
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
4. ARRIVAL IN PORT
The Master shall receive from the Marketing Division all necessary information on cargo, as
described in the section Loading, of this Manual.
Before arrival into port, whenever possible, the Master shall hold meeting with the Chief
Officer and Chief Engineer. The meeting should cover items related to loading or discharging,
such as loading/discharging plan, information on cargo characteristics and safety measures,
surveys and inspections expected, local regulations, required manning for anticipated work,
etc. The meeting shall be recorded in the Deck Logbook, if necessary.
The Chief Officer and Chief Engineer shall inform their departmental personnel of the
important topics of the meeting. The Chief Officer shall record all-important details on cargo,
safety precautions and duties of the individual crewmembers and display it in the Officers
and Crew messrooms.
The Master shall study contract clauses and Marketing Division instructions and explain any
special requirements for dealing with:
• particular cargo,
The Chief Officer shall present loading/discharging plan and unusual characteristics of the
cargo. Ballast procedure shall be also planned.
The Chief Officer is responsible for preparation of cargo tanks and testing of cargo system as
described in the section Loading, of this Manual.
The Chief Officer shall ensure that following is carried out prior to arrival:
• Gangway rigged.
4.2.5. Draft
Third Officer must immediately after berthing check the draft, and readings report to the
Master and Chief Officer, and record in the Deck Logbook.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
On arrival and depending on charter party, type of cargo carried or to be loaded, local
regulations, etc. some of the following surveys may be carried out:
• Vetting Inspection
The Master must receive all surveyors/inspectors and the Master or Chief Officer shall
accompany them all the time during the survey.
Upon arrival to the port, the Master has to complete Voyage report (Appendix 1) and send by
the fastest possible means to the Marketing Division. The details on report and appendices
are described in the section Voyage Reporting, of this Manual.
4.3. Filing
The Vetting Report shall be kept at file Z6 Inspection of the Ship. Retention time 5 years.
The form Voyage report shall be kept at file Z4 Voyage Documentation. Retention time 5
years.
5. LOADING
The relevant ship/shore safety checklist shall always be followed and complied with.
The Master shall receive from the Marketing Division and/or Shippers/Charterers information
of the next port of calls as well as known pertaining cargo information (trade name, quantity,
density, loading/discharging temperature, temperature which shall be maintained during the
voyage, specific safety requirements, etc.).
The Chief Mate shall prepare the loading plan for approval by the Master. When preparing
and approving the plan appropriate instructions, regulations and certificates shall be
followed.
• Ship stability, stress and strain during the loading, discharging and the voyage
• Heat transfer
Not more than12 hours before arrival to a port the Chief Officer shall ensure checking of the
following:
• all fixed and portable equipment that will be used for loading including all anti-
pollution equipment,
• ullage gauges, which accuracy shall be controlled and checked against remote readings;
the differences shall be recorded,
• ventilation system,
• cargo alarms,
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
• lighting.
Under normal circumstances, if specific instructions for tank cleaning have not been
received from Marketing Division or Charterers, the cargo tanks need not to be cleaned, but
it is essential to keep cargo system as dry as possible and with minimum residues of
previous cargo or ballast.
If excessive bottom sediments have been accumulated which may later affect the discharging
rate the tanks must be washed and remaining sediments discharged to shore installations, or
if it not possible, to slop tank.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
Disposal of tank cleaning residues shall be in conformity with regulations of MARPOL Annex 1
for oil cargoes.
The Chief Officer shall enter all details on disposal of tank cleaning residues in the Oil Record
Book - Cargo. The Master shall sign the each completed page.
The Duty Officer shall check P/V valves. If permitted by the terminal the tanks can be vented
to atmosphere, otherwise the gases should be vented to shore facilities.
Before any cargo operation takes place the Chief Officer shall agree with the terminal
representatives safety measures and loading details, and both sides shall complete terminal’s
Ship/Shore Safety Checklist. The Chief Officer shall record all agreed details and all activities
referring to cargo from the time of arrival till departure from the port in the
Loading/Discharging Records.
Emergency stopping, loading rate and topping up procedure shall be agreed on that occasion.
When establishing the loading rates the charter party requirements, venting capacity,
maximum working pressure of the ship’s cargo pipelines bearing in mind their condition, the
rate which is compatible with the means for tank measurement of cargo oil level and number
of grades should be taken into consideration.
Upon the meeting with the terminal representatives, the Chief Officer shall put in writing
the agreed loading procedure as loading information and instructions to the Deck Officers
who shall study and sign it to confirming that they have understood it.
Prior to loading a terminal surveyor shall inspect the ship to find out whether the ship is fit
and ready for loading. For the purpose, the inert gas pressure should be reduced.
After satisfactory result of the inspection, the inspector shall issue a certificate stating that the
ship is fit to load the grades of oil specified and a certificate stating the quantity of oil
remaining on board. The report shall be made on the form O.B.Q./R.O.B. Report (Appendix 2),
or on the similar form.
5.2.6. Deballasting
The deballasting which is carried parallel with loading is described in the section
Ballasting/Deballasting, of this Manual.
Before commencement of loading the Chief Officer and Duty Officer shall check safety and
pollution measures as well as pipe connection, i.e. whether the lines are connected to the
correct manifold, the setting of the lines and valves.
The hull stress limits shall be checked during loading, deballasting and after loading. Stability
of the vessel, adequate draft and trim shall be maintained during the entire voyage.
The Duty Officer is responsible for monitoring and supervision of the cargo loading, and
shall inform the Chief Officer of all extraordinary events. The Pumpman shall participate in
the loading and if needed an A.B. or O.S. may be called in.
As far as possible the prepared vessel's loading plan shall be followed. Possible changes
required by the terminal could be accepted, but if they are of such nature that they could
affect safety of the vessel. The Chief Officer shall advise the Master of any change.
In case when the terminal for any reason departs from the agreed loading plan, Duty Officer
shall immediately advise the Chief Officer or Master and terminal representative. If the
departure should jeopardise safety, the Duty Officer must immediately stop loading, and
make appropriate entry in the Deck Logbook.
The Duty Officer shall monitor the vessel's draught from the Loading Instrument. After
completion of loading he shall read the draught and compare them it with draught from the
Loading Instrument.
Control of the cargo loaded quantity shall be carried out on completion of loading manually
measuring ullages and temperature, and calculation on the form Ullage Report (Appendix
6) which should be signed by the Chief Officer. The Chief Officer shall by calculation check the
loaded quantity.
The Chief Officer shall complete the form Tanker Statement of Facts (Appendix 7)
from the Loading/Discharging Records books data.
Besides already stated forms, the Chief Officer shall complete following forms referring to
loading of cargo:
5.4. Sampling
The sampling is described in the section Sampling, of this Manual.
5.5. Filing
Cargo loading instructions received from Marketing Division or Charterers, stability and stress
calculations shall be kept at file Z4 Voyage Documentation. Retention time 5 years.
5.6. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Company Cargo Handling Standing Orders
6. Loading/Discharging Records
6.2. Procedure
6.2.1. Port Report
After departure from the port the Master shall complete the form Voyage report (Appendix
1), and after the end of voyage send it together with appendices to the Marketing Division
from the first next port. The details on report and appendices are described in the Section 16,
Voyage Reporting, of this Manual.
In the event the Shippers deliver to the ship less cargo than contracted the Master shall
complete form Letter of Protest (for less loaded than required) (for less delivered quantity,
(Appendix 13) or Protest for Cargo Difference Ship’s - Shores Figures (for less delivered then
contracted, found by calculation, Appendix 14), and deliver to Shippers and Agent and copy
send to Marketing Division. The form Deadfreight Calculations (Appendix 11) shall always be
completed together with the Letter of Protest. The signing of B(s)/L is described in the section
15, Bills of Lading, of this Manual.
There is possibility, depending on charter party or necessity, that some of the following
surveys are carried out before departure:
• Cargo Quantity Control - after completion of loading or discharging. The Chief Officer
shall always control loaded/unloaded quantity.
• On/Off Hire Survey - if new charter commences or old one ends, after departure.
The above surveys shall be carried by the Chief Officer and surveyors appointed by Shippers,
Insurers, etc.
After completion of operations the Officer of the Watch shall inspect the ship to find out
possible damages.
The Officer of the Watch shall, within preparations for departure, carry out all checks
according to Preparation for Departure checklist (Appendix 15) and Port Departure checklist
of which later refers to navigation (Appendix 16).
6.3. Filing
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
The protests referring to less loaded quantities, cargo quantity calculations, etc. shall be kept
at file Z7 Cargo Documentation (carriage, loading, discharging). Retention time minimum 5
years.
Stability and stress calculations shall be kept at file Z4 Voyage Documentation. Retention time
minimum 5 years.
The actions carried out in accordance with the Preparation for Departure - Checklist shall be
recorded in the book Records of the Actions Carried Out in Accordance with Checklists - Deck.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
6.4. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Voyage Reporting
7. TRANSPORT OF OIL
7.2. Procedure
During the voyage the Pumpman shall check cargo level, temperature and if appropriate inert
gas O2 concentration. The checks shall be carried daily at 08and 16hours and reported
to the Chief Officer.
Cargo level can be controlled from the cargo control room. If drop of the level is noted, the
cause of the change must be investigated. If the cause is not the temperature drop, it shall
be ascertained that there is no tank leakage.
The Chief Officer shall record the cargo temperature in the Cargo Heating Record (Appendix
17).
The cargo temperature shall be maintained in conformity with the Marketing Division or
Charterers instructions.
7.3. Filing
The Cargo Heating Record shall be kept at file Z7 Cargo Documentation (carriage, loading,
discharging). Retention time minimum 5 years.
7.4. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Inerting
8. DISCHARGING
The Chief Officer shall prepare Discharging Plan (Appendix 32) and hand it to the Master
for approval. When preparing and approving the plan appropriate instructions, regulations
and certificates shall be followed.
• Order of discharge
• Ballasting
Heating of cargo to the discharging temperature shall commence early enough (when
carrying cargoes that require heating) to avoid exceeding of allowable daily temperature
increment rate. The Chief Officer shall organise and monitor heating of cargo.
Not more than 12 hours before arrival to a port the Chief Officer shall ensure checking of
the following:
• all fixed and portable equipment that will be used for discharging including oil
pollution prevention equipment,
• ullage gauges, which accuracy shall be controlled and checked against remote readouts;
the differences shall be recorded,
• ventilation system,
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
• sensors (smoke, temperature, other),
• cargo alarms,
• lighting.
Also, the crude oil washing system (COW) shall tested under pressure in accordance with
manufacturer instructions as well as inert gas system (IGS).
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
Before any cargo operation takes place, the Chief Officer shall agree with terminal
representative safety measures and discharging details, and both sides shall complete
terminal Ship/Shore Safety Checklist. The Chief Officer shall record all agreed details and all
works referring to cargo from the time of arrival till departure from the port in the
Loading/Discharging Records.
As far as possible the prepared vessel's discharging plan shall be followed. Possible changes
required by the terminal could be accepted, but if they are of such nature that they could
affect safety of the vessel. The Chief Officer shall advise the Master of any change.
Emergency stopping, discharging rate and moping up procedure shall be agreed on that
occasion.
Upon the meeting with the terminal representatives, the Chief Officer shall put in writing the
agreed procedure as information and instructions to the Deck Officers who shall study and
sign it to confirming that they have understood it.
Before commencement of the discharging the Duty Officer and Chief Officer shall check
safety and pollution measures and ensure that correct lines are connected to the correct
manifold, and that the connections are properly made using a safe method.
Before any change in cargo weights onboard the Chief Officer shall check stability and hull
stresses and ascertain that they are within permissible limits.
The hull stress limits shall be checked during discharging, ballasting and after discharging.
Stability of the vessel, adequate draft and trim shall be maintained during the entire voyage.
Before commencement of discharge the Duty Officer shall read the forward and aft draughts
and compare them with draughts from the Loading Instrument.
Before commencement of the discharging the Chief Officer, or other designated Officer, shall
together with receiver representative take samples from each tank, as described in the
Section 12, Sampling, of this Manual.
Also, control of cargo quantity shall be carried out before commencement of discharge by
manually measuring ullages and temperature, and by calculation on the form Ullage Report
(Appendix 6). The Chief Officer is responsible for cargo quantity calculation.
The discharging may commence only when terminal representative confirm shore readiness;
the appropriate manifold valves should be opened and pumps started one at a time. Pumping
should commence at a slow rate, to allow time for Duty Officer to verify that checks have
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
been made to ensure that there are no leaks on deck, overside, in the pumproom or at a
manifold.
The Duty Officer shall check that the ullages from the nominated tanks are increasing, thus
confirming that the cargo is being discharged from the intended tanks.
Once terminal representative has confirmed that all is well with their end of the operation,
the pumping rate can be increased, but the maximum back pressure at the manifold agreed
between the ship and terminal must never be exceeded.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
The Duty Officer shall ensure that the tanks, which are being discharged, are properly
supplied with inert gas in order to maintain a positive pressure. He should also monitor closely
the inert gas pressure in the tanks and the oxygen content of the inert gas and ensure the
tank atmospheres are maintained in a safe condition.
If there is claim for cargo quality/quantity, the Master shall engage P&I surveyor and advise all
concerned.
The Duty Officer is responsible for monitoring and supervision of the discharging, and shall
inform the Chief Officer of all extraordinary events. The Pumpman shall participate in the
loading and if needed an A.B. or O.S. may be called in.
During discharging the Duty Officer shall regularly take ullages to control discharge rates
and finishing time for each grade.
The Duty Officer shall carefully control cargo pumps temperatures to timely prevent their
possible overheating.
The Chief Officer should ensure reasonable stern trim for successful stripping.
Once a last cargo has been discharged, the Chief Officer should stop all pumps and inform
Duty Engineer Officer that the pumps and the inert gas system are no longer required.
The manifold and other valves shall be closed as advised by the Chief Officer.
The Duty Officer shall record discharging operations in the Loading/Discharging Records book,
which shall be used by Chief Officer to complete the Tanker Statement of Facts (Appendix 7).
After completion of discharging the appointed surveyor and Chief Officer shall establish cargo
quantity remained on board (ROB). The report shall be made on the form O.B.Q./R.O.B. Report
(Appendix 2) or similar form.
The Chief Officer shall record all details on discharging cargoes in the Oil Record Book -
Cargo. The Master shall sign every completed page.
8.5. Filing
Cargo discharging instructions received from Marketing Division or Charterers, stability and
stress calculations shall be kept at file Z4 Voyage Documentation. Retention time minimum
5 years.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
The Discharging Plan, forms Ullage Report, Statements of Facts, O.B.Q./R.O.B. Report and
other cargo documentation shall be kept at file Z7 Cargo Documentation (carriage, loading,
discharging). Retention time minimum 5 years.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
8.6. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Company Cargo Handling Standing Orders
3.
9. BALLASTING / DEBALLASTING
When the ship is not carrying cargo or is lightly loaded, sufficient ballast must be carried to
ensure that the ship’s stress, stability, draft, trim and propeller immersion is within
permissible limits to guarantee the safe handling of vessel in the prevailing or expected
conditions.
In meeting these parameters the vessel must comply, at least, with the requirements of the
IMO, Class, Flag and Port State Authorities.
In 1993 IMO has adopted Resolution A.774(18) “Guidelines for Preventing the Introduction
of Unwanted Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens from Ship’s ballast water and Sediment
Discharges”. The Company has developed procedure named “Water Ballast Management
Plan” as the most practical to comply with this IMO Resolution. Masters is to ensure
compliance with them.
Ballast operations must always be carried out within capabilities of the vessel and its systems
and if the vessel is unable to follow any of procedures described below the Company is to be
advised.
The Chief Officer is designated to carry out these procedures and maintain all records as
required.
The Master is to ensure the Chief Officer is familiar with the requirements of this procedure.
The Master must also ensure that all the crew members are given the instruction and are
aware of the need for ballast water control procedures and procedures being adopted on
board.
When planning and carrying out operations with ballast waters, the following factors must
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
be taken into account:
• Slack Tanks
• Torsion Loads
The Ship’s course and speed is to be properly set depending on the prevailing weather
conditions.
It is of paramount importance that all segregated and permanent ballast tank vents are
properly set up and in good condition prior to any ballast operation. All vent closures that are
capable of manual operation must be in the open position. The original design venting
capability must be available at all times.
The vents are to be further checked soon after starting operation to confirm that the tanks are
venting freely. Improperly set ballast vents can result in severe structural damage to the
vessel.
Vents screens are to be kept free from paint as this can seriously reduce their volumetric
capacity. Great care is to be taken in conditions where icing is occurring. In certain
circumstances screens on ballast tank can become blocked by ice. During ballast operations in
such conditions, the responsible officer is to ensure that all precautions are adopted to ensure
the free venting of ballast tanks, and that regular checks are made to ensure continuous free
venting throughout the operation.
Before any change in cargo weights onboard the Chief Officer shall check stability and hull
stresses and ascertain that they are within permissible limits. He shall ensure that hull
stresses are within the permissible limits. These shall be constantly monitored during
ballasting/deballasting and upon its completion.
In some instances SBT (Segregated Ballast Tanker) if expected heavy weather conditions, it is
necessary to ballast cargo tanks to achieve a safe condition for the vessel. In such cases the
ballast is only to be loaded into cargo tanks designated for this purpose by the Class
Certificate, approved ship’s Loading Manual or Trim and Stability Book.
These tanks are normally provided with necessary corrosion protection and structural
reinforcement. No departure from the approved manual requirements is permitted without
Company approval.
The ballasting is normally carried out at discharge berth during or after completion of
discharge. The following precautions must be taken into account:
• All relevant tanks, lines and pumps are to be thoroughly drained of cargo and the
tank crude oil washed, if applicable, before loading of ballast water.
• The cargo tanks venting system must be correctly set up for the required operation.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
• The lines are to be checked by the responsible officer and a cargo pump is to be used and
a vacuum obtained prior to opening sea valves. The vacuum is to be maintained on the
pump suction side until a proper discharge pressure is obtained and ballast is filling to the
required tanks.
The discharge of ballast from cargo tanks whether dirty or clean is to be carried out with the
Oil Discharge Monitor Equipment (O.D.M.E.) in operation. During the discharge of dirty ballast
overboard the performance of the O.D.M.E. is to be checked by frequent visual inspections to
guard against accidental pollution.
When the overboard discharge is stopped by the monitoring equipment, the remaining oily
water is to be retained and transferred to the primary slop tank for settling. Any line flushing
necessary is to be made into the slop tanks. After settling of the slop tanks the free water is to
be decanted to the sea via the O.D.M.E. and on completion any lines used are to be stripped
into the primary slop tanks.
Some terminals are already adopting this practice and have done so for many years, as local
conditions do not allow any discharge of ballast whatsoever.
The Master is to check with the terminal of any requirements for shore based discharge of
ballast through voyage orders, agents instructions, “Guide to Port Entry”, etc. If there is any
doubt the Company must be referred to for advice, well before arrival.
Generally SBT vessels are not provided with a direct means to discharge ballast ashore. In this
case it will be necessary to either:
1. Fit a spool piece between the cargo and ballast suction piping, and to use a cargo pump
for discharging of the ballast to the manifold. For this purpose the following precautions
shall be taken:
a) All cargo system valves that isolate the cargo being loaded, from the ballast being
discharged shall be pressure-tested and verified tight.
b) Two-valve separation between cargo and ballast is to be maintained. In most cases
this will require careful planning of loading and deballasting operation to ensure,
the requirement is met.
c) The spool piece is to be removed and pipes blanked immediately on completion of
the deballasting operation.
Or:
2. Load ballast in cargo tanks and discharge all ballast tank water in deep ocean areas prior
to arrival over ODME, with particular reference to Company approval, if tanks not
normally designated for ballast water are to be used. Two-valve separation is to be
maintained between the tanks being loaded and deballasted. These valves are to be
tested and verified prior to the operation.
9.4. Filing
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
Stability and stress calculations shall be kept at file Z4 Voyage Documentation. Retention time
minimum 5 years.
Commencing and closing ballasting/deballasting and inerting time shall be recorded in the
Deck Logbook.
Ballasting/deballasting data and sounding readings shall be recorded in the Daily Sounding
Book.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
9.5. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Loading
7. ISGOTT
10. INERTING
The procedure refers to cargoes as specified by MARPOL 73/78 Annex 1 which flash point is
600C or below.
The inert gas system is to be used during cargo discharge, deballasting, tank cleaning and
crude oil washing.
Before the inert gas system is put into service following tests shall be carried out:
• Test of explosimeter
Whenever the cargo tanks are inerted and the pressure drops below the operational level,
inert gas must be introduced into the tanks to restore the pressure. If the pressure drops in
the cargo tanks during discharge, the pump rate must be reduced and tank vents and mast
raiser must not be opened.
Tank washing, including crude oil washing must not be started until oxygen content in the
tanks has been checked at different heights and locations and is determined to be below 8%
by volume. A positive pressure must be maintained. Before any gas free operations are
started, cargo tanks must be purged with inert gas until the overall tank atmosphere contains
no more than 2% hydrocarbon by volume.
Entry to any tank or compartment must not be made until it has been cleaned, gas freed,
tested to 1% lower flammable limit (LFL) maximum and 21% oxygen by volume minimum and
the Entry into Enclosed Space procedure followed. All Officers shall read the Inert Gas System
Manual and ensure that the instruments are functioning correctly.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
3. Close any other vent stack valve which may have been in use.
6. Close the manifold valves after informing the terminal, if the stoppage is likely to
be prolonged
8. Cargo operations should not be resumed until the inert gas system is returned to
fully operational status
10.5. Filing
The inerting operations shall be recorded in the Deck Logbook.
10.6. References
1. Inert Gas System Manual
2. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Crude Oil Washing and Tank Cleaning
The procedure applies to the ships equipped with crude oil washing installations.
Attention: The crude oil washing may be carried out only if the oil is listed in the Suitable Oils
for Crude Oil Washing!
The crude oil washing may be carried out only in agreement with a terminal. In cases when
the terminal does not allow minimum crude oil washing to meet MARPOL 73/78
requirements, the Master should file Note of Protest in free form, deliver it to the terminal
representative and inform the Marketing Division.
Before arrival to discharging port the Master shall, through the Agent, request permission
for crude oil washing. The request should be as follows:
II. State that the vessel is in possession of the valid IOPP certificate.
III. Confirm that the Inert Gas and Crude Oil Wash Systems are fully operational, tested and
without deficiencies.
IV. Confirm Crude Oil Washing checklist (Appendix 18) checks 1 through 13 are
completed and satisfactory. (Note: Any deficiencies must be fully explained.)
V. IMO Crude Oil Washing checklist for use before, during and after crude oil wash (Appendix
4) will be available on arrival.
VI. Tanks crude oil washed last two voyages are ...... (list).
The Chief Officer is responsible that pre-arrival, during after crude oil washing actions are
carried out in accordance with the Crude Oil Washing checklist (Appendices 3 & 4). The
washing data shall be recorded in the COW Log (Appendix 5).
After acceptance for crude washing by the terminal, the crude washing activities shall be co-
ordinated with the terminal personnel.
• Any leakage is reported from the manifold or any other lines or joints on deck or in
the pumproom.
• The level in the slop tanks rises to the maximum permitted, or there is a failure in
the gauging system to these tanks.
11.3. Filing
The forms Crude Oil Washing checklist and COW Log shall be kept at file P2. Retention time
minimum 5 years.
11.4. References
1. Crude Oil Washing Manual
12. SAMPLING
Note: The sealed sample, which is usually given by the Shippers should represent the
evidence of the cargo condition before loading but it is of no value to the Company and
should not be considered as a reliable sample.
The Company accepts only following sampling procedure, which should be followed at all
times:
1. The Chief Officer or by him designated Officer shall, together with Shippers'
representative, take sample from shore piping, at the joint manifold where the shore
piping is connected to ship piping.
2. If during the loading, tanks, barges, pumps, pipes, etc. are changed, the first run sample
shall be taken at the same place.
3. Final sample, at the end of loading, shall be taken from each ship cargo tank.
5. When discharging valuable and sensitive cargoes, the sample shall be taken during
discharging at connection between ship and shore pipings (as it may be assumed that
the cargo has been contaminated on leaving tanks during passing through ship pumps).
Three samples shall be taken from each tank, from 3 levels: top sample, middle sample and
lower sample. When homogeneous cargoes are carried, the samples may be mixed in one,
composite sample, and the greatest quantity taken from the middle level.
All samples shall be taken, sealed and labelled on board in presence of the Chief Officer or by
him designated Officer and cargo representative. The cargo representative should clearly
write, on the paper fixed by stamp, the name of the company he represents, his name and
sign it.
The samples shall be held at 0.5 litre glass bottles with label containing following data:
• Shipper’s name and information whether the samples have been taken jointly
• sample quantity, tank no, ullage and temperature and number of samples
• sample type: from shore line (first run), from tank, composite sample.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
The data from the labels shall be rewritten to the Knjiga uzoraka (Samples Book).
If the cargo representative declines to take or seal the sample that shall be recorded in the
Knjiga uzoraka, and the letter of protest shall be handed to the Shippers or Receivers.
The samples shall be kept at dark, dry and well ventilated space. Retention time 2 years
after the end of voyage.
If there is any doubt in the cargo quality (strange colour, presence of the water, etc.), the
Master shall inform the P&I representative and the Shippers. In case of serious doubt the Bill
of Lading must not be signed before a chemically analyse is done.
12.3. Filing
Knjiga uzoraka shall be retained minimum 5 years after completion.
12.4. References
1.
13.2. Procedure
Each Charter Party has clauses regarding Notices to be given by the vessel and to whom such
notices shall be sent to. The Master must follow received instructions, and if by error the
instructions have not been given, the Master should contact the Marketing Division and ask
specific instructions of when and to whom (Agent, Shippers, Charterers) to forward notices.
The Master must tender notice of readiness (Pismo spremnosti/Notice of Readiness - Appendix
24) to the Agent upon arrival at a loading/discharging port, in writing, to the agent and
ensure the agent gets NOR acknowledged, by the receivers, shippers or charterers' agent.
In some cases the charterers, agent, etc. will try to delay signing of the NOR, or agent delay
tendering to afternoon, after office hours or specific time stipulated in charter party, etc. in
order to save lay time on behalf of their principals. The Master should do his best to tender
NOR and get acceptance, and agents behaviour shall be reported to the Marketing Division.
If the charterers, agent, etc. justly refuse to accept the NOR because the ship is not ready for
loading/discharging, the Master shall again tender the NOR as soon as the ship is ready. The
Master shall immediately inform the Marketing Division of any case of refusal to accept the
NOR. Master shall also enclose form Cargo requirement/Loading rate at loading port.
The Master must ensure that the time and date of tendering NOR inserted in the Statement of
Facts (Tanker Statement of Facts).
Even if the NOR has been tendered from anchorage by telex, fax or cable the Master must
present written upon berthing NOR of the same content and date of tendering original.
13.3. Filing
Notices of Readiness and Statements of Facts shall be kept at file Z7 Cargo Documentation
(carriage, loading, discharging). Retention time minimum 5 years.
13.4. References
Nil.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
14.2. Procedure
All Statements of Facts (SOF) shall be duly signed by the Master, Agent and
Shippers/Receivers representative.
The Company requests from the Master to pay particular attention to the following
problems experienced with certain Charterers’ Agents:
• If the vessel has a port stay of more than 3 days the Master must make sure to receive a
copy of an up to date SOF every day, to prevent any unpleasant surprises shortly prior to
departure.
• The Master must as soon as possible send to the Marketing Division signed copies of SOF
and NOR in order that the laytime can be calculated.
14.3. Filing
Statements of Facts shall be kept at file Z7 Cargo Documentation (carriage, loading,
discharging). Retention time minimum 5 years.
14.4. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Loading
4. B/L terms
After completion of loading the Chief Officer shall control cargo quantity by draft survey or
by volumetric calculation.
If the cargo quantities presented by the Shippers and those found by the ship differ more ()
than 0.5% and the cause cannot be found out the Master should enter a clause in the B/L. The
clause may be entered in one of the following ways, by:
1. Cross off the Shippers' figures and enter the quantities found out by the ship, stating
the changes done, e.g. x MT only according to ship's figures, or add only the quantities
calculated by the ship under the figures stated by the Shippers, e.g. x MT only (ship's
figures);
3. Do not sign the B/L received from Shippers, but issue new with exact quantities or
require Shipper to issue new B/L with exact figures.
If the weights presented by Shippers and those found out by the ship differ more than 0.1%,
but less than 0.5% the B/L may be signed, but the Masters must protest the difference by
issue a letter of protest.
The Master must immediately report any dispute referring to cargo quantity to the
Marketing Division, Crude Oil Carriers Department.
If the weights presented by Shippers and those found out by the ship differ less than 0.1% the
B/L may be signed.
If the Shippers refuse to accept claused B/L and threaten to prevent the ship to depart, etc.
the Master shall immediately inform the Marketing Division, Crude Oil Carriers Department,
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
which shall take necessary steps to solve the dispute.
The Master shall establish whether the date of issue of B/L is correctly date with actual date
of shipment to avoid possible antedating by Shippers. If the Master is placed under pressure
by the Shippers to antedate the B/L he shall immediately contact the Marketing Division,
Crude Oil Carriers Department.
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
The Master shall request the agent at discharge port, minimum 5 days prior to arrival, to
present the original Bills of Lading, prior commencement of discharge. He must timely
ensure that agent is aware that the discharge operations will not commence unless the
originals are available. A Letter of Indemnity must never be accepted as a substitute for a
missing original B/L unless the such instructions are received from the Company.
15.2.5. Filing
The B/Ls and letters of protest shall be kept at file Z7 Cargo Documentation (carriage, loading,
discharging). Retention time minimum 5 years.
15.3. References
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
1. departure time
5. bunker quantity
7. number of B/L originals and copies signed by the Master; is original onboard
The Master shall send after the end of voyage, i.e. after completion of discharging, from the
first next port the voyage report which should contain following documentation:
1. Voyage report (Appendix 1). The form shall be completed after the end of full voyage,
i.e. if there were more ports, only after the last port of discharging.
6. Letter of Protest, for less loaded than required (Appendix 12). The form
shall be completed when less cargo is delivered than contracted, and when there is no
quantity dispute.
7. Deadfreight Calculation (Appendix 10). The form shall always be completed when a
EXERCISES
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
CRUDE OIL CARGO PROCEDURES
protest is made to less than contracted quantity is received, together with the form Letter
of Protest (less loaded than required)
22. Deviation statement. The report shall be completed in free form with the deviation sketch.
23. Off Hire Statement (Appendix 29). The form shall be completed when the
chartered ship is temporarily off hire, except deviation (see no. 22), for the reasons of
repairs or similar.
24. On/Off Hire Report. The report is usually made by an independent surveyor.
25. Bunker Survey Report. The report is usually made by an independent surveyor on hire or
off hire occasion.
16.3. Filing
The reports, certificates and forms from paragraph 16.2 shall be kept in following files:
Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23at file Z7 Cargo
Documentation (carriage, loading, discharging). Retention time 5 years.
• Nos. 22, 24, 25 at file Z4 Voyage Documentation. Retention time minimum 5 years.
• Nos. 17, 19 & 20 also at file U2 Voyage Documentation. Retention time minimum 5 years.
16.4. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Arrival in Port
The Master should be in contact with the agent regarding arrival in order to adjust the speed
(increase or slow down), to secure berthing on arrival, or arrive at sunrise the next day (when
berth is available but night navigation is not permitted, etc. The speed should be adjusted in
co- ordination with the Agent and record in the Voyage report. The speed must not be
adjusted unless this has been approved by the Company as there are agents that adjust ship's
arrival to save laytime which shall not be accepted.
17.3. Filing
Instructions on speed and consumption shall be kept at file Z4 Voyage Documentation, and
correspondence with agents regarding arrival at file Z3 Correspondence. Retention time
minimum 5 years.
17.4. References
1. OFFICE DEPARTMENTAL PROCEDURES MANUAL – Marketing Division, Postfixture
18. AGENTS
Majority of the agents appointed to attend at a port, are appointed through Charter Parties,
and are so called Charterers' agents, but the Company appoints them as port agents.
Sometimes the services of these Agents are not of standard quality and although they are
paid by the Company they do not protect the Company interests. If the Master feels an agent
works actively against Company’s interests he must urgently contact the Marketing Division
who shall appoint a protective agent. A written report shall be sent on the agent's acting.
The Master shall require from the Agent upon berthing that following is to be adhered to:
• Cargo documentation shall be send by registered mail 24 hours after the vessel has sailed
or the first next working day;
• Original Bills of Lading shall not be released unless the Agent has written confirmation
from the Company.
The Master shall copy all important correspondence with the agents and fax it to the Company.
18.3. Filing
All correspondence with Agents shall be kept at file at file Z3 Correspondence. Retention time
minimum 5 years
18.4. References
1. Crude Oil Cargo Procedures, Notices and Notices of Readiness
19. APPENDICES
1. Voyage report
2. O.B.Q./R.O.B.
3. Crude Oil Washing Checklist (Pre-Arrival)
4. Crude Oil Washing Checklist (Before, During and After COW Operation)
5. COW Log
6. Ullage Report
7. Tanker Statement of Facts
8. Vessel's Experience Factor
9. Loading Record
10. Deadfreight Calculation
11. Ship's Cargo Calculations
12. Letter of Protest (for less loaded than required)
13. Protest for Cargo Difference Ship's - Shores Figures
14. Preparation for Departure
15. Port Departure
16. Cargo Heating Record
17. Notice of Cargo Discharging Capacity
18. Discharging Condition Notice
19. Port Log - Deck
20. Port Log - Engine