Recent incidents with such cargo have led to significant ship and cargo losses as well as multimillion-dollar claims for consequential project delays.

Karl Lumbers, P&I Club loss prevention director, says: "The increasing globalisation of infrastructure supply chains means ships are carrying bigger, more expensive and often awkwardly shaped project cargo. These range from wind turbines and cooling towers to bridge decks and accommodation modules."

"We are increasingly concerned about the lack of expertise, skills and resources being deployed in this complex area of transportation, in all parts of the chain, both ashore and on board. The use of unsuitable vessels for the cargo, poor quality or inadequate securing and dunnage, inexperienced personnel and a lack of detailed planning can all lead to damage or loss of the cargo. We have therefore joined forces with leading marine cargo insurer AGCS to produce a comprehensive new industry guide."

Written with independent expert input from London-based marine survey and consultancy firm Cwaves, “Project Cargo Matters” provides practical guidance on how to load, stow, secure and discharge heavy-lift and project cargo safely – from super yachts to substructures. Its main recommendations are also available in a pocket-sized checklist entitled “How to handle project cargoes.”

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