Media Release “First dedicated STS standard for dry bulk released by INTERCARGO as operations increase”

INTERCARGO has officially released the first dedicated Ship-to-Ship (STS) transfer standard for the dry bulk sector, addressing the rising frequency of these operations globally. As infrastructure constraints and draft limitations at major ports like Singapore or Port Hedland necessitate mid-stream transfers, this new framework aims to standardize safety protocols. The guidelines provide essential oversight for bulk carriers managing cargo flows in emerging trading regions, ensuring that STS procedures remain consistent across the international merchant navy fleet.

This initiative aligns with the broader safety framework established under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 33, and the IMO’s Manual on Oil Pollution Prevention, which serves as a foundation for safe shipboard operations. Compliance departments must now integrate these INTERCARGO standards to ensure that risk assessments and mooring arrangements meet updated industry benchmarks. By formalizing these procedures, the sector aims to mitigate the environmental risks covered under MARPOL Annex I, ensuring that dry bulk vessels maintain strict adherence to international maritime safety management systems.

Masters and navigating officers must now familiarize themselves with these specific STS guidelines to ensure operational compliance during cargo transfers. These deck officers are required to update their shipboard safety management manuals and conduct rigorous pre-transfer risk assessments. By adopting these standardized procedures, navigating officers can enhance safety during complex mooring operations, ensuring that the vessel remains fully compliant with the latest industry regulations while minimizing the potential for structural damage or environmental incidents during bulk cargo handling.