In order to avoid further delays, we were contacted to exert pressure on Pemex to provide a better connection.
Our strategy was two-fold. On the one hand, we spoke with the Harbour Master and requested him to go to the Monobuoy himself to assess the connection’s overall state and safety level. Under a legal frame, the Harbour Master is obliged to determine the state of discharge equipment at all ports. By making this request, we passed the burden on to him. On the other, we also sent a Letter of Protest to Pemex and to the Charterers (PMI) holding them liable in the event of any spill or incident and for providing an unsafe connection.
As a result, Pemex did provide a safe connection and re-programmed the mooring of the vessel for discharge within the following 36 hours (it could have been much longer). As an additional safety measure, discharge took place under the supervision of our Surveyor as well as Pemex’s Loading Master.
Members should be aware that when they are fixing Charter Parties with Pemex/PMI they may wish to instruct them to include a clause stating that the SBM-connectors should conform to ISGOTT regulations to avoid delays and possible liabilities for spillage. |
