Cargo watchkeeping

Liquid + dry cargo, gas + tanker considerations, communication with terminal.

Why it matters

Cargo operations are when the most simultaneous activities run — loading, ballasting, gas freeing, mooring tension, terminal vehicles — and most cargo incidents happen at the changeover between watches.

Common hazards

• Over-/under-flow during topping off.
• Static / sparking on tanker manifold.
• Ballast – cargo mis-timing causing list / trim issues.
• Communication breakdown with the terminal.

Practical checklist

• Pre-operation toolbox talk with the cargo plan.
• Manifold / hose connection checked + dripped.
• ESD / linked alarms tested.
• Communications channel agreed with terminal.

Last verified 15 days ago