Russia

Russian Ports - Safe Stowage And Securing Certificate

New rules apply to all the vessels, including foreign flag vessels, entering and departing from Russian Sea Commercial ports. Rules of safe carriage of cargoes by sea (the "Rules") entered into force with effect from 24.11.03. The Rules are based on provisions of Article 1 (b) and Chapter VI of SOLAS-74.

The Rules introduce an obligation on the Master of departing vessels to provide the Harbor Master with Cargo Information and a Certificate of safe stowage and securing of cargo in respect of packed dangerous substances, oversized, heavyweight, metal cargoes, timber cargoes.

Pursuant to Article 13 of the Rules it is generally for the shipper to arrange issuing of the above documents (except in respect of deck cargoes and securing by crew).

In order to avoid disputes and delays resulting from non-compliance with the Rules it is advisable for Masters to be instructed to:

• demand presentation of the information on cargo prior to commencement of loading
• demand presentation of proposed scheme of stowage prior to commencement of loading
• issue, prior to completion of loading, the relevant letter in recommended form