3.1.1 It is important that the ship be provided
with information about a terminal so the loading or unloading can
be planned. Similarly, the terminal will need information about the
ship to enable preparations to be made to load or unload the ship.
It is important that the information be exchanged in sufficient time
to allow preparations to be made.
3.1.2 Before loading commences there should be
an agreement between the master and the terminal representative as
to the rate of loading and order in which the cargo is to be distributed
to achieve the final loading plan. In general, this agreement should
be based on one or more of the following options:
-
.1 the limitations or restrictions on loading
procedures if such are specified in the ship's Loading Manual, Trim
and Stability Booklet or both;
-
.2 if the restrictions mentioned in .1 do not
exist and the ship has a loading instrument which has been approved;
the loading plan should be prepared on the instrument and there should
be a protocol in place so that the loading remains, at all times,
within the approved stress limits of the ship; and/or
-
.3 if neither .1 or .2 can be satisfied, then
a conservative procedure should be followed.
3.1.3 Details should be provided of any necessary
repairs which may delay berthing, the commencement of loading or unloading.
or may delay the ship sailing on completion of loading or unloading.
3.1.4 The master should ensure he receives from
the shipper of the intended cargo, details of the nature of the cargo
required by chapter VI of SOLAS 1974,
as amended footnote. Where additional requirements,
such as trimming or continuous measurement of the water in the cargo,
etc., is required, the master should inform the terminal accordingly.