Cargo handling manual

A cargo handling manual is the ship-specific manual approved for the carriage and handling of a defined cargo, required on bulk carriers and tankers. For bulk carriers the loading and unloading manual under SOLAS Chapter VI/7 and the Grain Code gives approved loading sequences and stress limits so the hull girder is not overstressed during alternate-hold loading. Tankers carry the cargo operations manual and, for chemical and gas ships, the procedures and arrangements manual under the IBC and IGC Codes. The officer follows the approved loading plan and stress limits; deviation is the common cause of buckling and excess shear force.