Cargo Hold Cleaning & Inspection Checklist for Every Voyage

Cargo holds are those critical spaces within a ship where goods are stored during transit. Whether it is liquid, dry bulk cargo, or just containers, the cargo holds must have a clean-up and inspection before each voyage. Not only does it result in the quality of cargo, but also in safety, regulation compliance, and preventing contamination of future cargoes.

In this blog, we will guide you through the essential steps required to properly clean and inspect the cargo holds.

Why Clean and Inspect Cargo Holds?

Before going into the checklist, let’s discuss the significance of cleaning and inspecting cargo holds:

1. Prevent Contamination: Dirt, debris, or leftovers from previous cargo can contaminate new loads. This is particularly crucial when transporting sensitive goods such as food or chemicals.
2. Ensure Safety: All leftover material can create the risk of fire, dangerous gases, or other hazardous conditions.
3. Obey Regulations: International shipping regulations mandate cargo holds to be clean and checked. Otherwise, there are chances of fines and lawsuits.

Ultimate Checklist for Cleaning and Inspecting Cargo Holds

Step 1: Clear the Cargo Hold:

Begin by removing leftover cargo from the previous voyage. This will ensure that no waste material interferes with the cleaning and inspection process.

• Clear debris: Sweep the floor and walls to remove large debris.
• Verify leaks: Ensure there are no leakage spots or holes that would jeopardize the structural support of the hold.

Step 2: Inspect for Damage:

Before cleaning begins, the cargo hold should be examined for any form of damage it could have sustained when it was last used.

• Walls and floors: Examine for cracks, rust, and corrosion on the walls and on the floor.
• Structural checks: Verify that all such bulkheads and ceilings are intact and undamaged.
• Cargo gear: Any cargo handling equipment, whether it is winches, cranes, etc, should be in good condition.

Step 3: Thoroughly Clean the Hold:

Once the hold is cleared and inspected for any damage, clean it as well. Cleaning will help maintain the integrity of the hold while preventing contamination of the next cargo.

• Sweep: Sweep the cargo hold to remove all the dust, dirt, and debris.
• Pressure-wash: Using water, wash the walls and floor. Where there are stubborn stains use a cleaning agent or soap.
• Specialized cleaning: For previous cargoes that had left sticky or greasy residues (such as oils or food), consider specialized cleaning agents.
• Rinse and dry: Rinse the walls and floor thoroughly with fresh water, for all soap and cleaning agents to be removed from the area. Allow to dry completely.

Step 4: Remove Odors:

If the odor is still present after cleaning, then it is necessary to take additional measures to eliminate it. Odors can transfer into the next cargo, which can then contaminate.

• Deodorizing agents: Use safe, non-toxic deodorizing materials.
• Ventilation: Open the vents and let the air move around the space to freshen the space.

Step 5: Check for Pests:

Pests such as rats, insects, or birds can even find their way into the cargo hold when the ship is docked for a long time. Inspect the cargo hold for signs of pest infestation and take the following steps:

• Inspect for nests: Look for nests in corners and any hidden areas.
• Pest control: If there are pests, then hire a professional to handle pest control.
• Seal all entry points: No gaps or crevices should be left open for pests to invade in the future.

Step 6: Inspect Ventilation and Drainage:

Ventilation and proper draining are important factors for a safe journey. Moisture collected inside the hold could cause mold or rust, damaging the cargo.

• Inspect vents: Check all the ventilation systems to ensure there are no obstructions and functioning.
• Check drain systems: Any drain systems should be clean, with water readily let out.

Step 7: Check for Contamination Risks:

For some goods, contamination is a significant issue. Ensure that no residual substance would impact sensitive products.

• Residual cleaning agents: Ensure all cleaning agents are eliminated.
• Proper sealing: Review for any holes or gaps through which air and moisture may penetrate and contaminate the cargo.

Step 8: Final Inspection:

Before you consider the cleaning and inspection process complete, undertake a final walk-through of the entire hold.

• Visual check: Inspect every nook and cranny for signs of contamination or damage.
• Functional testing: Test all cargo hold equipment to ensure proper operation.

Conclusion

Cleaning and inspecting cargo holds is one of the very important jobs for assuring the safety, cleanliness, and integrity of your cargo. Strict compliance with this ultimate checklist before setting sail on each journey will not only ensure that your cargo remains in the best state but also aid in international standards and regulations compliance. Cargo holds’ regular maintenance is an investment in the lifespan of your vessel and in the goods transported by it.