DUTIES OF THE CARGO OFFICER
Cargo Officer is directly charged with
supervising every stage of the cargo operations. So he must prepare a number of
documents which are made out both before and during loading or discharging.
Before arrival at the port of loading he
should:
- Secure the proper preparation of the
cargo holds. They must be swept, washed, dried. This procedure depends on
the type of previous cargo and the cargo to be loaded.
- Ensure that all cargo handling gear
works properly.
- Ensure that all necessary protective
appliances are prepared.
- Ensure that materials to be used such
as lashing, dunnage and separating materials are prepared.
- Make out the NOR and the CARGO PLAN
which must be approved by the Master.
Before and during the loading the C/O
should:
- Examine the condition and packing of
the cargo to be loaded.
- Instruct with details foremen and
stevedores as to the proper stowage of goods in the ship’s compartments
and spaces.
- Make measures for preventing any
damage due to negligent handling either to the cargo or to the vessel.
- Arrange careful tally of the goods
taken on board.
- Draw up the MATE’S RECEIPT for each
shipment of cargo actually received on board. In the case of short-shipment
or damaged condition of goods or defects in their packing C/O should add
appropriate remarks or closes to protect the vessel’s interest against the
claims for loss or damage.
After completion of loading the C/O must
complete all cargo documents which must be signed by the Master.
