Cargo Securing Manual and Cargo Lashing
The manual that will become the focus of PSC inspections in the second half of 2026: how to keep it consistent with the ship's actual configuration and its lashing equipment in good condition.
Operational Explanation
The Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) sets out how cargo must be stowed and secured on board to withstand the stresses expected during the voyage (rolling, pitching, accelerations), with specific reference to the securing equipment actually available on board and its load capacities.
The CSM is not a generic document: it must be specific to the ship, updated every time the securing equipment or the configuration of holds/decks changes, and approved by the Flag Administration or by a recognised organisation.
Regulatory Reference
SOLAS Chapter VI, Regulation 5 and Chapter VII, together with the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code): every cargo ship carrying cargo other than solid bulk cargo or bulk liquids/gases must have an approved Cargo Securing Manual.
Scope of Application
Every cargo ship subject to SOLAS Chapter VI/VII; particularly relevant for container ships, general cargo ships and ro-ro ships, the subject of the Paris MOU/Tokyo MOU Concentrated Inspection Campaign from 1 September to 30 November 2026.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Verify that the Cargo Securing Manual on board is the approved version and consistent with the ship's current configuration (securing equipment, holds, decks).
- Periodically inspect the securing equipment (chains, turnbuckles, twist locks), replacing worn or damaged components.
- Verify that every stowage plan complies with the CSM's indications regarding weight distribution and the securing points to be used.
- Train the deck crew on the specific securing procedures set out in the CSM, not on generic procedures.
- Update the CSM and have it re-approved every time the ship's equipment or configuration changes significantly.
Practical Example
Example verification: a container ship, ahead of the 2026 CIC on Cargo Securing, carries out a full inspection of the deck lashing equipment, replacing 12 worn turnbuckles and verifying the consistency of the stowage plan with the CSM's indications for reefer containers.
Real Cases
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Securing Manual not updated after changes to the securing equipment | The manual no longer reflects the ship's actual securing capacity | Update and have the CSM re-approved after every significant change |
| Worn securing equipment not replaced for reasons of time/cost | Reduction in actual holding capacity compared with what the CSM specifies | Schedule dedicated periodic inspections and the preventive replacement of worn components |
| Generic deck crew training, not specific to the ship's CSM | Securing not compliant with the manual's specific indications | Train the crew on the specific CSM procedures actually in use on board |
PSC Observations
Operational Tips
- Do not wait for the start of the 2026 CIC to check the state of the CSM and the securing equipment: start now.
- Schedule periodic inspections dedicated to the securing equipment, not just occasional visual checks.
- Make sure deck crew training is specific to the ship's CSM, not generic.
Checklist
- CSM updated and consistent with the current securing equipment
- Securing equipment periodically inspected, worn components replaced
- Stowage plans verified against the CSM's indications
- Deck crew trained on the CSM's specific procedures
- CSM re-approved after every significant change to the ship