Many freight container units and bulk cargo holds on ships are treated with chemical pesticides termed fumigants otherwise known as cargo fumigation. Fumigant must be applied according to the correct instructions. As holds are always unventilated for a time after fumigation, there may be a risk of excessive condensation, which can produce sweating or dripping. This can lead to cargo damage as well as fire and explosion risks, the Swedish P&I Club has warned.
In particular, the Club says that agricultural products in bulk may be fumigated in ships’ holds to prevent insect infestation. Solid aluminium phosphide (or similar) is often used for fumigation. Continue reading “Swedish Club highlights the dangers of cargo fumigation”
