Cargo hose

To ensure safe and efficient operations, the testing procedure for using a cargo hose
involves several crucial steps. Firstly, before deployment, the hose's condition is carefully
examined for any visible signs of damage or wear. Next, the connections are thoroughly
inspected to ensure they are securely fastened. Before cargo transfer, a pressure test is performed
to verify the hose's capacity to withstand the expected load. Throughout the transfer process,
continuous monitoring is conducted to detect any leaks or irregularities. Once the cargo transfer
is finished, a comprehensive post-operation inspection will evaluate the hose's state and address
potential concerns. Adherence to this testing procedure is essential in minimizing risks and
ensuring the cargo hose's reliability and success.

BWMS
During the discussion led by the Chief officer on "Ballast Management System and
Ballast Handling Operations," various essential topics are covered based on the SMS Manual,
particularly "Use and Operations of BWMS." These topics include the significance of ballast
water exchange, procedures for changing ballast using sequential and flow-through methods, the
number of ballast tanks on the vessel, sampling points for all ballast tanks, ballast reporting
procedures, and the operation of the ballast water management system (BWMS).
The guidance provided prioritizes safety during ballast water exchange at sea,
considering weather conditions and deck water ingress, which can impact stability during
adverse weather. Predefined procedures are to be followed before conducting ballast water
exchange at sea, with the Master having the final decision based on the ship's position, weather
forecast, and machinery performance. Crew availability and vessel equipment condition are also
considered before proceeding with at-sea ballast water exchange operations.
The primary method of ballast treatment is through the Ballast Water Treatment System
(BWTS), with the sequential/empty refill method used alternatively when the vessel is partially
loaded with cargo and ballast. The flow-through method is only exceptionally employed under
specific circumstances. The ultimate goal of ballast treatment or exchange is to prevent the
transfer of harmful microorganisms and pathogens from one port to another.
The Ballast Management System involves different modes, such as ballasting mode, de-
ballasting mode, and bypass mode, each with specific water flow sequences to achieve effective
treatment and discharge. Proper operation of the BWMS includes starting the ballast pump with
the appropriate mode selected, activating the UV lamp when the flow rate reaches a certain point,
and ensuring the UV dose surpasses the required level. The system automatically switches to
bypass mode after a cooling period, enabling a safe pump shutdown.
Key components of the BWMS include the BWTS filter, which filters micro-organisms
and pathogens, and the UV light, which treats and destroys micro-organisms and pathogens
smaller than 50µm that pass through the filter. Adhering to these procedures and efficiently
utilizing the BWMS ensures compliance with ballast water regulations and helps protect marine
ecosystems from potentially harmful organisms during ballast operations.

Summary (BMWS)
The discussion covers vital aspects of the "Ballast Management System and Ballast
Handling Operations." Topics include ballast water exchange importance, sequential and flow-
through methods for ballast change, tank information, sampling points, ballast reporting, and
BWMS operation. Safety aspects, weather considerations, and crew availability are essential
during the at-sea ballast exchange. The BWMS primarily employs a treatment system, a
sequential method, and rarely, the flow-through method. The aim is to prevent harmful
microorganisms' transfer between ports. The system has ballasting, de-ballasting, and bypass
modes. Key components include the BWTS filter and UV light for microorganism treatment.
Proper adherence ensures regulatory compliance and protects marine ecosystems.

Deck Operations and Technical System

The discussion on "Deck Operations and Technical System" focuses on safety procedures
related to various deck operations and technical systems, all aimed at achieving the company's
goal of zero incidents. Regarding Ballast Handling Operations, the Ballast Water Management
Plan, Procedures and Arrangement Manual for Chemical Tankers, Cargo Ballast Operation
Manual for Oil Tankers, and Operation Manual for ODME should be referred to for the proper
procedures during ballast operations.
When handling ballast water, several considerations are essential to ensure ship stability,
safe navigation, cargo custody, and environmental protection. Ballasting and de-ballasting should
be conducted to avoid subjecting the ship's hull to excessive stress. Careful calculation of ballast
usage is necessary to prevent excessive ship stress, list, and trim, ensuring the vessel remains
safe and navigable. Ballast control is crucial to maintaining suitable trim and list for effective
cargo stripping and squeezing during discharge. In some cases, ballast carried in segregated
ballast tanks may be retained on board to limit freeboard for specific reasons, such as keeping the
ship's maximum draft at the berth, ensuring the safety of terminal equipment like metal loading
arms, shore gangways, and ship accommodation ladders, or providing deeper draft against
adverse weather conditions.
Special attention must be paid when taking ballast in cargo tanks, considering factors
such as the type and condition of the cargo tank coating, the presence of other cargoes in
adjacent tanks, and the ship's stress, trim, and list. In situations where the ship is loaded with
solidifying cargo like palm oil, beef tallow, fatty alcohol, and phenol, or sensitive chemical cargo
susceptible to moisture, the filling of ballast water in double bottom tanks should be controlled to
be less than 70% of the tank capacity to prevent solidification or moisture-related issues. By
adhering to these procedures and considerations, the ship can ensure safe and efficient ballast
operations while safeguarding the vessel's stability, cargo integrity, and environmental protection.