2.11.3.4 Tallies, stowage, lashing and securing of cargo

2.11.3.4 TALLIES, STOWAGE, LASHING AND SECURING OF CARGO

Where the charterparty provides for tallies to be done by the vessel, the Master should arrange for the same. If necessary, due to a reduced number of crew being available, tally companies from ashore should be engaged.

Whilst stowage of cargo is normally done by shorebased labour, provisions in the charterparty may provide that the Master must supervise the stowage. If this is the case, the Master should instruct his/her officers accordingly and intervene if the stowage is not to the satisfaction of the vessel’s command.

If the stowage or lashing of the cargo is performed by shorebased labour, the Master and his/her officers may be forced to intervene if it is felt that the lashing or stowage is inappropriate. Any such intervention must be in writing to the stevedores and charterers and receipt acknowledged by the recipient.

However, where the Company is not responsible for the stowage and/or securing of the cargo under the charterparty and where the vessel’s safety is not impaired, the Master and his/her officers should be careful with any intervention.

The Master and his/her officers should always remember that the ultimate responsibility for the safety and the seaworthiness of the vessel rests with the Master.

If lashing and/or securing is to be done by the ship’s crew, the Master needs to record the extent of lashing performed by the crew and details of the lashing/securing methods and the materials used in the appropriate logs. This particularly applies if lashings are checked and re-tightened throughout the voyage.

It will be of assistance if any claims are presented at a later stage, if photographic evidence is taken, irrespective of who performs or is responsible for the stowage/securing.

Where the charterers are represented by a supercargo the Master and his/her officers should not be intimidated by the supercargo into accepting unsafe stowage or lashing systems.