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Independent Sealing and Unsealing of Vessel Hatch Covers
Hatch cover sealing at the port of loading and proper unsealing at the port of discharge is a simple and reliable method of protecting the interests of shipowners, charterers and cargo owners against shortage-related claims. Properly applied security seals provide clear evidence that hatch covers remained unopened throughout the voyage.
Hatch covers are sealed after loading has been completed and hatch covers closed and arranged in a sea-going position. The seal numbers and locations are recorded, photographed and included in the sealing report.
Upon arrival at the discharge port, the seals should be inspected and witnessed by all agreed parties to confirm that they are intact before being removed. As during sealing procedure, the seal numbers and locations are recorded, photographed and included in the unsealing report.
Hatch cover sealing helps reduce the risk of disputes arising from alleged cargo shortages. When the integrity of the seals is confirmed at the discharge port, all parties can be satisfied that the cargo compartments remained secured during transportation.
The sealing report contains the seal numbers, sealing locations on the vessel, photographic evidence of applied seals.
The unsealing report contains the seal numbers, sealing locations on the vessel, photographic evidence of seals and remarks on any deficiencies noted during the inspection.