Vessel Fumigation

Vessel Fumigation: An Essential Step in Pest Control

The transportation of goods via sea routes is a vital aspect of global trade. However, the risks of pest
infestations in the cargo during transit can cause substantial damage to the goods and lead to economic
losses. Hence, proper pest control measures, such as vessel fumigation, are crucial to ensure the safety of
the cargo and maintain trade standards.
Fumigation is a process of exposing the cargo or the entire vessel to a gaseous pesticide to eliminate the
pests and their eggs. It is a standard practice in the shipping industry and is a legal requirement in many
countries.

Why is fumigation of vessel is necessary?

Ships transport a wide variety of goods, including food items, agricultural produce, and wooden packaging
materials. These items are vulnerable to pest infestations during transit due to factors such as temperature
changes, humidity, and poor ventilation. If left unchecked, the pests can cause significant damage to the
cargo and even spread to other areas.
In addition to causing damage to the goods, pest infestations can also lead to health hazards for the crew
and port personnel. Hence, it is necessary to ensure the safety of the cargo, crew, and the environment.

Steps involved
The process of fumigation involves several steps, and it is crucial to follow them correctly to ensure its
effectiveness. Here are the steps involved in vessel fumigation:
Inspection: The first step is to inspect the vessel and identify the areas that require fumigation. This
includes cargo holds, storage areas, and other spaces where pests can hide.
Preparation: The vessel must be prepared for fumigation by ensuring that all hatches, windows, and doors
are closed and sealed properly. The crew must also vacate the vessel during fumigation.
Fumigation: The fumigant is released into the vessel through a sealed system. The dosage and duration of
fumigation depend on the type of cargo and the pest species.
Aeration: After fumigation, the vessel must be aerated to remove the fumigant and make it safe for the
crew to re-enter. The aeration time varies depending on the fumigant used and the weather conditions.
Clearance: Once the vessel is deemed safe for entry, a clearance certificate is issued by the authorities.
This certificate confirms that the fumigation has been completed as per the regulations.

Safety Precautions
It involves the use of toxic gases, which can be hazardous to human health if not handled properly. Hence,
it is crucial to follow all safety precautions during fumigation. Here are some of the safety precautions that
must be taken:
Only trained and licensed personnel should carry out fumigation.
Proper personal protective equipment must be used by the personnel.
The fumigant must be stored and handled as per the regulations.
Warning signs must be placed on the vessel to indicate that fumigation is in progress.

Conclusion
It is an essential step in pest control during the transportation of goods via sea routes. It ensures the safety
of the cargo, crew, and the environment. However, it is important to follow all safety precautions and
regulations to ensure its effectiveness and prevent any accidents. Hence, it is advisable to engage a
professional pest control service provider for vessel.

Procedures: How to conduct a safe cargo fumigation

As one of the most challenging operations for solid cargo trade, the safe transportation of grain
cargo requires several hazards and parameters to be considered and many measures to be
taken. Fumigation is one of these. Fumigants are chemicals which, under certain conditions, will
enter a gaseous state and, in sufficient concentration, will be lethal to pest organisms that are
considered detrimental for the condition of most grain cargoes. But under which circumstances
can fumigation take place?

The ship’s cargo can be fumigated and ventilated:

1. While stored prior loading,

2. In the hold of the ship before departure,

3. In the hold prior to departure with fumigation continued during the voyage (intransit).

In these situations, the fumigation continues during the voyage and is not finished until the
ventilation and removal of residues is completed, which is normally at the first discharge port.

When a ship is fumigated, the detailed recommendations contained in the Recommendations on the
Safe Use of Pesticides in Ships should be followed. Spaces adjacent to fumigated spaces should be
treated as if fumigated.

Fumigants act in a gaseous phase, even though they may be applied as solid or liquid formulations
from which the gas arises. Effective and safe use requires that the space being treated be rendered
gastight for the period of exposure, which may vary from a few hours to several days, depending on
the fumigant type and concentration used, the pests, the commodities treated and the temperature.
Since fumigant gases are poisonous to humans and require special equipment and skills in
application, they should be used by specialists and not by the ship’s crew.

Real life incident

A vessel departed Liepaja, Latvia, bound for Antwerp, loaded with a full cargo of wheat in all three
holds. Cargo was fumigated and six pieces of 10 mm diameter plastic tubes were hung from the
hatch coamings to the tank tops of each hold prior to starting the loading.

When the cargo had been loaded, aluminium phosphide tablets were spread on top and dropped
into the tubes. Hatch covers and ventilators to the cargo holds were closed and plastic bags were
placed around the coaming drains. In the accommodation, the main ventilation system was closed
down, but people were allowed to use the extraction fans from their bathroom/WC. Outside doors
were closed and people were ot allowed to go out on deck, unless it was necessary for the operation
of the vessel. Two gas masks with eight filters and one gas detection kit with 50 detection tubes
were delivered to the vessel by the fumigators who advised that the cargo holds could be opened
again after five days.

The crew members were not very familiar with the use of the kit, and the date limit of the detection
tubes expired during the voyage. Four days after the start of the fumigation, during anchoring to
wait for a berth, a seaman complained about feeling ill, with a slight temperature and vomits.

Having spent 48 hours in his cabin, the seaman was found dead in his bed. Two days later, the
second officer also became sick, but recovered.

There was no odour of gas, but when tests were carried out, a high concentration of phosphine gas
was detected in spaces within the accommodation.

The deceased seaman’s cabin was on main deck level, in front of the accommodation and next to the
captain’s office. When the lining of the office was pulled down, a small corroded hole was found in
the front bulkhead. That steel plate was the common boundary with the aft ventilator from the aft
cargo hold.

Corrosion within the ventilator over many years had made a small opening for the gas in the cargo
hold to pass to the insulation of the accommodation walls. The extraction fans from the toilets
created a slight under-pressure, sufficient to draw the gas, which escaped to the cabins wherever
there was an opening.

Safety Tips

 A “fumigator-in-charge” should be designated by the fumigation company. He should be

able to provide documentation to the master proving his competence and authorization.

 The master should be provided with written instructions by the fumigator-in-charge on the
type of fumigant used, the hazards to human health involved and the precautions to be
taken, and in view of the highly toxic nature of all commonly used fumigants these should be
followed carefully. Such instructions should be written in a language readily understood by
the master or his representative.

 As breathing masks should be provided for seamen, demonstration of the correct use is to
be performed.

 Accommodation spaces should be checked for inadequate isolated penetrations. In all cases,
if a penetration is required, it should be covered by class approval.
  Warning posters should be in place to prevent entrance to all dangerous spaces.

 Risk Assessment should be performed to address all related hazards.

SQE has developed a sample of toolbox meeting in order to be used as guidance onboard.

Fumigation in shipping – What is

fumigation?

Fumigation is a process of exterminating living organisms. In particular, it refers to

pests that hollow the tubules in the wooden material and nest in them, and then along
with the load are transferred to other parts of the world.

Fumigation in shipping – What is it?

The fumigation process helps to get rid of pests. Insects are one of the largest medium
of diseases, so we should pay special attention to epidemiological protection in
international transport. General import-export regulations usually impose the
fumigation process.

Fumigation consists in drying wood at 56°C for 30 minutes, as well as on

decontamination with heavy gas (a compound that, after spraying, does not float in the
air but falls to the ground). The gas penetrates through the cracks in the wood and gets
rid of all living organisms.

It is primarily aimed at reducing the risk of spreading quarantine pests in international

trade.

Export fumigation
Fumigation used in international transport is often referred to as export fumigation,
international fumigation or sanitary fumigation.

Fumigation in shipping – When is it required?

Fumigation is used not only for international transport but also for the preparation of
packaging for storage of various consumer products. Repeated use of the same
packaging makes them susceptible to pest attacks. In this case, it is recommended to
periodically clean all types of crates, pallets, boxes, boxes with wooden partitions and
floor, as well as other such places.

In international transport, the process of fumigation of wood is a basic condition for

passing through customs clearance and admission to transport.

Fumigation is required for international transport outside the European Union and
between certain member countries (including Portugal, Spain).

On the other hand, packaging made of wood-based materials, which are made by
pressing under pressure, with the addition of synthetic adhesives doesn’t require
purification.

Export fumigation is not required in every direction, while countries such as the US,
China, or Australia must fumigate.

ISPM 15 Standard
Fumigation works are carried out under the supervision of the State Plant Protection
Service, following the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures ISPM
number 15 of the International IPPC Convention on Plant Protection (abbreviated as
IPPC ISPM 15: 2009).

The ISPM 15 standard is used in countries outside the European Union. It describes
the method of treatment of wooden packaging, guaranteeing the liquidation of all
potentially harmful organisms.

Fumigation of food transported by containers

It also happens that fumigation is subjected to food transported internationally. Methyl
bromide has been used in the past, but it is currently prohibited in the European
Union. However, outside of the EU (including India), you can still encounter such
methods. An interesting alternative currently used in many countries is cooling.

Protection against pests

After the fumigation process, wooden packaging remains a safe means of transport,
completely free from the presence of various types of insects.
Fumigation is undoubtedly a fast and effective process and, moreover, it does not have
a negative impact on the disinfected goods.

Mark
On wooden elements, after the process, a special IPPC logo is applied.

XX – determines the ISO code.

000 – the number assigned by the National Plant Protection Organization.

YY, on the other hand, means information on how to protect the timber and can be
presented in the following way:

 DB (debarked) – the wood has been subjected to mechanical treatment

removing the remains of the bark
 MB (methyl bromide) – the wood was decontaminated by gassing with
methyl bromide
 HT (heat treatment) – the wood that was used to build the packaging
was dried in a chamber at a high, well-defined temperature for the right
time
The mark or simply a stamp must comply with the provisions of ISPM 15 and should
be on each wooden package or pallet.

The label should contain the logo of the company making the fumigation, the code of
the producer of the preparation, the method of treatment which the wood was
subjected to and the symbol of the country where the fumigation was made.

Consequences
Goods that have not been subjected to the process of fumigation will certainly not be
introduced into the country that requires such a process.

Besides, such goods may be subject to additional charges or withdrawn to the country
of dispatch at the expense of the exporter.

In the case of groupage consignments consolidated in one container, when one

packaging has not passed the fumigation process, the goods from the whole container
are stopped, and no one from the importers can pick up their shipment.
Alternatively, in such a case, a fumigation process can be carried out in the country to
which the parcel was sent; however, it is a long and costly procedure. It is subjected to
the entire contents of the container, which can lead to the destruction of transported
products. In the case of importing food products, this option is not even considered.

CLEARING THE AIR: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ABOUT FUMIGATING COMMODITIES AND CARGO

When it comes to international trade, ensuring the safety of commodities

and crew is paramount. Expert fumigation can help to do so, but what this
really means and how it is done can be confusing.

We spoke with an AHK expert to answer your ‘Frequently Asked

Questions’ on all things fumigation to clear the fog and provide as much
information as possible as to how this process can help.

WHAT IS THE FUMIGATION OF COMMODITIES OR

CARGO?

Fumigation is a method of using lethal gas in an enclosed space to kill

all pests. During the process, fumigators introduce fumigants in a solid or
gaseous state and leave them in a confined space with a commodity for a
certain amount of time. This eliminates any pests within that cargo.

WHEN IS FUMIGATION OF COMMODITIES OR

CARGO NECESSARY?
Fumigation is only necessary when a trader wants it. An expert fumigator
won’t fumigate anything that they don’t have to. However, there are two
reasons why fumigation might be required.

One reason is that a crew member has either seen insects or the trader
wants to fumigate as a preventative measure . The other is to ensure
goods meet import requirements. For example, when importing grain, the
country of origin might require a final certification of fumigation before
processing cargo.

WHAT PESTS CAN BE PREVENTED THROUGH

FUMIGATION?

Simply put, following fumigation, any pests within that confined space
will be eliminated. An expert fumigator will always follow the strict
standards on the Weevil-Cide label. The list of insects or pests on that
label should and could be identified within that contained area.

IS FUMIGATION SAFE FOR COMMODITIES AND

CREW?

During a fumigation, an expert fumigator will introduce and implement a

solid-state chemical that turns into a gaseous state. In this state, it travels
among the commodity, however, it does not absorb into the grain or
commodity. Therefore, it kills all insects in and around the grain but
doesn’t pose a risk for human consumption, making the fumigation of
commodities safe .
When it comes to the safety of contained areas such as ships, cargo holds
or containers, fumigation poses a different type of risk. A Master
Fumigator will implement the fumigant and give clear and concise
instructions to the vessel crew about ventilation, standards and protocols.
This will also include hands-on instructions on how to eliminate any
potential risks so that if there is a potential leak, the crew can resolve the
issue safely and quickly.

In essence, following comprehensive fumigation, the crew should have

confidence in both the process and the instructions they have been given,
so that when they arrive at the port of destination, they know exactly
what to do, as if they themselves were fumigators.

HOW LONG DOES A FUMIGATION TREATMENT

USUALLY TAKE?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by clients regarding

fumigation. A fumigator won’t know how long the process will take
because every fumigation is different based on external factors.

For example, the higher the temperature or the higher the humidity, the
shorter the exposure time required. The cooler the temperature, or lower
the humidity, the longer the fumigation time required. This is all based on
the regulatory implementation on the fumigant label and the governing
bodies who enforce that label.

CAN ANYONE FUMIGATE A SHIPMENT?

No, not everyone can fumigate a shipment. Certain countries have strict
regulations for fumigation. For example, in Canada, a professional must
pass two exams to receive their fumigator license and the organisation
they work for must also have a fumigator permit.

Based on the Transport Canada regulations and guidelines , once a

Fumigator has their permit, they must accrue 150 hours on a vessel,
supervised by a Master Fumigator. This on-vessel training will teach the
complexities of fumigation and crew interactions, how to deliver
fumigation information and how to ensure the correct and safe execution
of procedures at the port of destination.

FUMIGATION

Fumigation in charge to be designated by appropriate authority.

FIC will provide master the following information:
Type of fumigant
Hazards
TLV
Precautions to observe.

Fumigation in port
In port, normally fumigation is done in empty cargo spaces and accommodations.
It is done by certified fumigator companies.

Preparations
A thorough cleaning of cargo spaces after discharge.
Box beams, stiffeners, deck girders, pipe casings, bilge wells, strum boxes etc, are cleaned
thoroughly from cargo residues.
Cargo spaces to be air tight.
All compartments, accommodations, store rooms to be available to the fumigators.
They should be opened internally, but outside doors locked.
Food staffs must be removed unless permitted by fumigators.
The ship has been prepared as required by the fumigator.
Watchmen posted to prevent unauthorized boarding.
Warning notices posted on gangway and entrances of the accommodation.
All crews to be landed ashore during the fumigation period.
A complete search to be carried out for any crew or person left onboard and a certificate is
given by master, countersigned by fumigator to this respect.
All blowers, air cons, fans in holds and accommodations to be switched off. The generators
may be shut off for the fumigation period.

Procedures
Fumigation is carried out to disinfest the ship.
Carried out in cargo holds and accommodations.
Strong toxicants are used.
Fumigants are applied as solid or liquid but act as gases.
No pesticides to be applied on human or animal foods without professional’s advice.
After all preparation and precautions, fumigant is released and the ship kept under gas for at
least two hours for empty ship and four hours for loaded ship.
Entry to be made in fumigated spaces in an extreme emergency.
People must be wearing protective equipment, breathing apparatus and safety harness in
case of such an entry.

As per the fumigators, when the ship is disinfested adequately,

Fumigator is to inform master.
With assistance of necessary crew, they will gas free the ship.
Engine personnel to start generator, ventilation fans.
The must be wearing sufficient protective clothing with breathing apparatus.
When the ship is gas free and safe for reoccupy, a test of all spaces to be made for toxic
gases and oxygen content.
A gas free certificate is to be issued by fumigators stating that the ship is free of toxic gases
and safe for re-occupancy.

Fumigation at sea
Done at the discretion of master.
Master to be aware of the flag state regulations regarding transit fumigation.
Done only in cargo spaces, empty or loaded.
It may be done in following occasions:
Fumigation done in port but ship is not gas freed.
Fumigation is done but no clearance certificate is issued.

Preparation
Fumigators to demonstrate and train required ship personnel, at least 2 crews and one
officer.
A trained representative should brief the crews before the operation takes place.
A thorough cleaning of empty cargo spaces after discharge.
Box beams, stiffeners, deck girders, pipe casings, bilge wells, strum boxes etc, are cleaned
thoroughly from cargo residues.
Cargo spaces to be air tight.
Warning notices to be posted.
Details of fumigants, their properties, hazards are known.
Symptoms of poisoning are known.
First aid and emergency procedures in case of poisoning are known.
Required medicines are on board.
A copy of latest MFAG is onboard.
Necessary gas detection equipments are available.
Protective equipments are available.
Measures taken to ensure E/R, accommodation and other working areas are free of fumes
and prevent leakage of fumigants.

Procedures
Fumigation is carried out by fumigators and/ or trained personnel.
Carried out in cargo holds.
Strong toxicants are used.
Fumigants are applied as solid or liquid but act as gases.
No pesticides to be applied on human or animal foods without professional’s advice.
After all preparation and precautions, fumigant is released and the ship kept under gas for
specified time required by fumigators, generally 1 week.
After ascertaining that the ship is safe to sail and there is no leakage, the FIC should furnish
the master following written statement:
The gas in hold spaces reached certain high concentration to determine any leakage.
Spaces adjacent to the cargo spaces have been checked and found gas free.
 The ship's representative is fully conversant with the use of gas detection equipment.
Entry to be made in fumigated spaces in an extreme emergency.
People must be wearing protective equipment, breathing apparatus and safety harness in
case of such an entry.

When the spaces are disinfested sufficiently (after required time as per the fumigators):
Thorough ventilation of cargo spaces is done.
Cargo holds may be opened few days before arrival port.
A test for the presence of toxic gases is made.
All to be done under supervision of trained personnel.
Protective equipments are to be worn.
Discard of residues of fumigants as per fumigators advice.
A detail entry of all the procedures in deck log book and official log book is to be made in
chronological order.