Course content

The course NAUT2003 Cargo Operations is an in-depth study of the operational aspects of performing loading/unloading operations across segments. The course covers the theoretical knowledge requirements of STCW Chapter II, Sections A-II/1 and A-II/2, Function Cargo Handling and Stowage within the subjects listed at the operational level and management level.

The course focuses on the safe and legally required handling of cargo on board ships. The core is cargo calculations and stability control, where the student must plan stowage to satisfy requirements for trim, hull loads and stability throughout the voyage, supported by a computerized loading program.

A wide range of cargoes are covered: Dry bulk (IMSBC code), grain cargo (stability requirements), dangerous packaged goods (IMDG code) and tank cargoes (SOLAS, MARPOL, IBC/IGC codes). Introduction to inspection and preparation of cargo spaces, securing of cargo (Cargo Securing Manual) and handling of hazards such as explosion hazards.

Learning outcome

Learning Outcomes - Knowledge:

After completing the course, the student should have acquired knowledge of:

• Regulations and Codes: The content of relevant international codes and conventions, such as the IMSBC Code, the BLU Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, the IMDG Code, the IBC Code, the IGC Code, ISGOTT, and relevant ILO Convention (152).
• Hazards: The most important hazards associated with the transport of solids in bulk, oil/chemicals/gas in bulk (including explosion, fire, health, environmental, reaction and corrosion hazards, as well as toxicity limits).
• Cargo Handling: The purpose of inspection and cleaning of cargo holds and procedures for disinfection.

Learning Outcomes - Skills:

After completing the course, the student should have acquired skills in:

• Cargo calculations and planning: Plan stowage plans for bulk cargo (including grain cargo) and perform load calculations to check and document that the plan meets stability and trim requirements throughout the voyage.
• Tank operations: Calculate volumes and weights of oil/oil products, and plan loading/unloading/ballast loading so that trim and hull loads are within acceptable values.
• Cargo condition control: Describe and implement measures for controlling the cargo space atmosphere (including calculating relative humidity and dew point temperature) and securing cargo based on the Cargo Securing Manual.
• Stability calculations: Calculate stability and heeling in connection with timber as deck cargo and heavy lift (including maximum dynamic heeling angle).
• Use of codes and programs: Use the IMDG code to plan the stowage and segregation of dangerous packaged cargo, and use computer-based loading programs to plan safe loading/unloading.
• Inspection and Reporting: Inspect and report defects/damage in cargo holds, hatches and ballast tanks, and suggest necessary measures.

Learning Outcomes - Competence:

After completing the course, the student should have acquired general competence in:

• Handling various bulk and grain cargoes: Take necessary precautions before, during and after loading bulk cargoes (liquid and dry), including consideration of angle of repose, transportable moisture limit, and chemical hazard.
• Handling other types of cargo carried on ships, including packaged goods and living biomass.
• Assessing safety: Understand and describe requirements related to equipment, fixtures, means of protection and hatches, including routine inspection and maintenance.
• Explain relevant parts of conventions and codes that regulate the transport of various types of cargo

Learning methods and activities

Pedagogical methods: Lecture, written exercises, practice in using computer-based tools. Mandatory work requirements: Mandatory submissions must be approved in order to take the exam (number of submissions is stated at the start of the course). ICT tools must be used in the solutions. Approved submissions give access to the first ordinary exam, as well as the first new and postponed exam. At the next ordinary exam, new mandatory assignments must be submitted.

Compulsory assignments

• Mandatory submissions

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

NAUT2002 Skips- og lasteteknikk 1

Course materials

• Klaas Van Dokkum: Ship Knowledge, Dokmar Maritime Publishers B.V. Edt 11, ISBN: 978-90-71500-64-0

• Klaas Van Dokkum: Ship Stability, Dokmar Maritime Publishers B.V. Edt 6, ISBN: 978-90-71500-37-4