Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers - First Edition

These Guidelines offer comprehensive guidance for Masters and technical operators involved in Ship to Ship (STS) transfers of dry bulk cargoes. It outlines the fundamental principles, planning and preparedness measures, safety and environmental considerations, mooring procedures and emergency response protocols critical to the safe execution of STS operations.

The publication addresses various STS transfer types, including operations involving barges, transloaders and floating cranes. It defines the roles and responsibilities of key participants such as Masters, STS organisers and stevedores while detailing requirements for equipment, communication, risk assessment and personal safety.

With dedicated chapters on operational phases and a set of structured checklists, the Guidelines aim to enhance safety, reduce risk and promote best practices across all stages of STS transfers. They are intended to be used alongside each operator's safety management system (SMS) and applicable regulations.

The objective of this document is to offer guidance to Masters and vessel operators engaged in Ship to Ship (STS) transfers of dry bulk cargoes. This guidance is intended to apply to all vessels within the scope of the document. While following these recommendations, it is important to also consider specific procedures outlined in the ship operator's safety management system (SMS) and any other applicable references.

Safe and efficient STS transfers require careful planning, effective communication and strict adherence to safety standards. This Guide provides an overview of key safety practices, risk management strategies and operational procedures for STS transfers, highlighting the importance of crew training, proper equipment use and collaboration between involved parties. Adopting these best practices helps operators reduce risks associated with STS operations, protecting crew, assets and the environment.

Glossary

Abbreviations

References

Preamble/Forward

Introduction

Chapter 1 Basic Principles, Conditions & Requirements

1. Basic Principles, Conditions and Requirements

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Type of STS Operations

1.3 Elements in Dry Bulk STS Operations

1.4 Roles and Responsibilities

1.5 Technical Operator Policies

Chapter 2 Planning and Preparedness

2. Planning and Preparedness

2.1 General Principles

2.2 Specific STS Plan

2.3 Risk Assessment

2.4 General Communications

2.5 Provision of Information Prior to an STS Operation

2.6 Personal Protective Equipment and Lifesaving Appliances

2.7 Helicopter Operations

2.8 Fenders

Chapter 3 Safety, Security and the Environment

3. Safety, Security and the Environment

3.1 General Principles

3.2 Condition of Mooring Equipment

3.3 Safety during Cargo Transfer

3.4 Cargo Type Hazards

3.5 Safe Watchkeeping

3.6 Personnel Transfer

3.7 Security

3.8 Action in Case of Infringement of Safety

Chapter 4 Manoeuvring, Mooring and Unmooring

4. Manoeuvring, Mooring and Unmooring

4.1 General Principles

4.2 Manoeuvring

4.3 Mooring Operations

4.4 Unmooring

Chapter 5 Operations Alongside

5. Operations Alongside

5.1 General Principles

5.2 Preparations for Cargo Transfer

5.3 Operations after Completion of Cargo Transfer

Chapter 6 Emergencies

6. Emergencies

6.1 General Principles

6.2 Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Procedures

6.3 Emergency Communications

6.4 Emergency Situations

6.5 State of Readiness for an Emergency

6.6 Cessation of Transfer Operations as a Precautionary Measure

Chapter 7 Appendices & Checklists

7. Appendix 1 – Checklists

Checklist #1 – Ship Details for Compatibility Assessment

Checklist #2 – Before Commencing STS Operation

Checklist #3 – Prior to Mooring Operations

Checklist #4 – Prior to Cargo Transfer Operations

Checklist #5 – Prior to Unmooring

Checklist #6 – Due Diligence for Appointed STS Service Provider (Optional)

INTERCARGO

The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) is representing the interests of quality dry cargo shipowners. INTERCARGO convened for the first time in 1980 in London and has been participating with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1993.

INTERCARGO provides the forum where dry bulk shipowners, managers and operators are informed about, discuss and share concerns on key topics and regulatory challenges, especially in relation to safety, the environment and operational excellence. The Association takes forward its Members' positions to the IMO, as well as to other shipping and international industry fora, having free and fair competition as a principle.