RMS St Helena - Doing our bit - Cargo Handling
All cargoes loaded onto the RMS St. Helena are stowed according to the recommended stowage guidelines as detailed in the 'Ship's Cargo Stowage Manual' and the 'International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code'. This is of vital importance in ensuring that the cargo is suitably lashed and stowed to prevent the risk of a pollution incident developing during the three phases of handling namely loading, transit and discharge. In addition to international requirements, local importation rules are also observed and particularly where fresh fruits, vegetables, meat products and livestock are concerned.
The island of St. Helena has very stringent rules regarding the importation of these products. These rules have been put into effect to protect the island's numerously delicate ecosystems and it's small population, including the local economy. The introduction of harmful pests and diseases could spell disaster, and so we too take our share of the responsibility to reduce these risks to the lowest possible levels. Prohibited and regulated cargoes are only shipped if all the necessary documentation is in order.
Cargoes that have been banned by the island's authorities, for example meat products regular livestock and exotic animals, which may or may not be infected with certain viruses (i.e. BSE, Avian Flu or Foot & Mouth), are not permitted ashore. Both passengers and crew are kept well informed of any banning orders or regulations currently in force. Even the cargo holds are first swept of debris, and hold bilge units are thoroughly cleaned before being washed, in an effort to reduce the likelihood of possible pollutants being pumped overboard.
