Mitigating the Risk of Liquefaction
Practical guidance for mitigating liquefaction risks when carrying IMSBC Group A cargoes, from pre-loading checks and documentation to onboard monitoring and emergency action.
Antony Thomas
Published: July 27, 2026
Liquefaction is one of the serious safety concerns associated with the carriage of solid bulk cargoes, having contributed to numerous vessel losses, fatalities and stability related incidents worldwide. The consequences can be severe, ranging from cargo shifting and progressive listing to a sudden loss of stability and in extreme cases, capsize of the vessel. Although the hazard is well recognised within the industry and subject to comprehensive regulatory controls, liquefaction incidents continue to occur. Cargo conditions and moisture content may change between testing and loading, meaning that the cargo ultimately loaded may no longer reflect the condition under which it was originally sampled and certified.
Mitigating this risk requires more than compliance with regulatory requirements. It demands thorough cargo assessment, vigilant loading supervision, effective shipboard controls and continuous monitoring throughout the voyage.
In this Club Risk Alert, Antony Dats Thomas outlines measures to assist Members and other stakeholders in identifying, assessing and managing liquefaction risks associated with IMSBC Group A cargoes.
