Ammonium nitrate

Owners should be careful to ensure the carriage and import of this cargo is allowed by the country of destination.

Although this cargo is a fertiliser and is safe if carried in accordance with IMO regulations it can be used as a chemical component in the manufacture of explosives.

Examples :

The catastrophic explosion of railway trucks in North Korea

The catastrophic explosion of railway trucks in North Korea on 22/4/2004 which destroyed thousands of homes in the near vicinity is reported to be attributable to the carriage of ammonium nitrate fertiliser cargo in bulk being in contact with electrical equipment. Ammonimum nitrate also known to be used for the manufacture of explosives.

MV 'Tasman Independence'

MV 'Tasman Independence' carrying a bulk cargo of ammonium nitrate was refused entry into New Zealand and it is likely that Australia would do the same.

It is likely this cargo would have been allowed to be imported had the cargo interests notified, applied and obtained approval from the relevant Government departments and it is important that charterers assume liability for any vessel's loss and delays arising from the refusal of some Governments from importing this cargo. A clause should be included into the charterparty and our clients are requested to contact us for assistance in this connection.