Hatch covers: Part 1

The tighter we compress the hatch packing, the better the seal: A Myth.

- Robert Vaz,

INTRODUCTION:

According to the statistics of the annual PSC reports and various P&I claims, hatch cover tightness and cargo damage caused by water ingress from hatch covers are still major issues.

Through the next few articles, we will share the various issues and advice on hatch covers to spread awareness and share knowledge based on our experience of inspecting several bulk carriers, witnessing how crew tackle issues onboard, interviewing crew members and having conversations with several superintendents, this blog is written on a best endeavour basis, hoping we realise the myths and some common mistakes we make and in turn spread awareness.

Taking appropriate action, having the right attitude, and being open to learning could amount to significant savings for our owners. Our ships will perform better at third-party inspections; the crew will be empowered to perform their jobs and answer any 3rd party inspector confidently.

The much-awaited integration of the human element into inspection regimes is here. Various maritime organisations, be it OCIMF, Right Ship, or others, have finally incorporated human factors into their inspection regimes, eg Sire 2.0 or RISQ 3. The inclusion of human factors will definitely bridge the gap and will positively impact the overall operational safety of the vessel. Each of us, be it the seafarer, owners, managers, charterers, or inspecting authorities, has a part to play and together, we can make our industry safer.

SHOULD THE HATCH COVERS BE WATERTIGHT OR WEATHERTIGHT?