Familiar risks remain in spotlight

Ian Barr, of the London P&I Club, reports on recent causes for concern

Fresh fears over liquefaction

The lifting of an iron ore ban in India and the recent total loss of two ships have put the spotlight once again on the problem of liquefaction. The ban on the mining, storage and export of iron ore was imposed in the Indian state of Goa during October 2012 following reports of “irregularities”. There are specific challenges involved in the export of iron ore fines from Indian ports during the monsoon season which can increase the moisture content of the cargo to levels where liquefaction can occur, resulting in a severe loss of ship stability and sometimes sinkings. Other cargos such as nickel ore are also prone to liquefaction.