Hatch cover maintenance for bulk carrier

The hatch cover is the single item of shipboard equipment that causes the largest and most expensive claims on bulk and general cargo vessels. The condition of the hatch covers is essential to the watertight integrity of these vessels and to the preservation of the cargo on passage.

Learning objectives:

• Practical guidance to ship’s officers and crew, technical managers, surveyors, lawyers and claims handlers in the operation and maintenance of hatch covers
• To display representative examples of routine checklists to be used onboard in connection with the operation and maintenance of hatch covers
• Be able to consider safety aspects of hatch covers and maintenance
• Understand hatch cover design principles