Cargo inspection helps minimise risk

But choose a reputable operator THE MARINE insurance industry is the strongest proponent of minimising risk at every level, which is where independent certification companies play a key role. But dealing with a reputable operator is crucial, says Cassim Dawood of SGS, which provides independent certification of the quantity and quality of cargo being transferred between buyers and sellers. “The risk to the industry occurs when fly-by-night inspection companies are used, or companies with inadequate expertise or international connections,” says Dawood. The problems arise when inspectors take short cuts or when pilferage occurs during transit from one point to another. An additional area of concern is the chartering of “rustbuckets”, raising the issue of cross-contamination, while the use of dirty vehicles by transporters is of equal concern “Common oversights that have resulted in cross contamination include the pumping of product into the wrong tanks because the inspector was not diligent, or was not at the site during operation, as required.” And in South Africa the risks are greater in Dawood’s view, because in Durban common loading and discharge pipelines are used. “Elsewhere, dedicated lines are used for each product group.” Technology is however playing a role. “Modern tankers are helping – having more than one pump on board - and laser techniques are now being used to calibrate tanks.” SGS is the biggest inspection company in the world, with over 150 years of experience.