Cargo Securing Manual and Cargo Lashing
The Cargo Securing Manual follows SOLAS applicability and cargo type, not the cargo-ship label alone; the 2026 CIC checks compliance with existing requirements and creates no new ones.
Operational Explanation
SOLAS VI/5.6 concerns cargoes other than solid and liquid bulk, cargo units and cargo transport units on ships to which the chapter applies. A passenger or ro-ro passenger ship carrying such units is not excluded merely by ship type. The approved CSM governs stowage and securing of the actual configuration.
Regulatory Reference
SOLAS VI/5.6 and VII/5 require the approved CSM within their respective scope. Check ship, voyage, cargo and flag provisions: 500 GT is not a universal exclusion. Carriage of cargo units on a passenger ship may bring it within scope.
MCA MGN 699, Annex C; MSC.1/Circ.1353/Rev.2 — CSM; Paris/Tokyo MoU — CIC 2026. The CSS Code and CSM guidance support implementation; check national implementation and the approved manual. MCA guidance also describes UK-specific arrangements.
Scope of Application
Ships and cargoes subject to SOLAS VI/5.6 and, for dangerous goods, VII/5: cargo units and cargo transport units other than solid and liquid bulk. Check certification, approved CSM and the configuration actually carried.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Check that the CSM is approved and covers every specific stowage situation on board.
- Check stack/tier, tank-top, hatch-cover and deck weights and limits.
- Verify VGM in the cargo plan where applicable.
- Use sufficient approved securing devices of the correct type, compatible and maintained under the CSM.
- Check bridge visibility, CSAP where relevant and heavy-weather/SMS procedures.
Practical Example
Hypothetical example: worn turnbuckles are identified before departure. They are replaced with compatible components meeting the CSM; securing in the actual configuration is checked and the work recorded. The CIC does not change the need to maintain these checks throughout the year.
What Typically Goes Wrong
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 |
What the PSCO Checks
The Paris/Tokyo CIC runs from 1 September to 30 November 2026 during PSC inspections. Its questionnaire covers the CSM, configurations, weights, VGM, devices, maintenance, visibility and heavy weather. Question 6 on CSAP is informational; a negative answer does not by itself create a deficiency. Findings depend on applicable requirements and severity, without automatic detention.
Operational Tips
- During the active 2026 CIC period, keep the CSM, actual arrangements and securing equipment ready for the questionnaire checks.
- 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.
Preparation checklist
- Applicability determined by cargo and SOLAS
- Approved CSM and instructions for all actual configurations
- Officers familiar with weights and limits
- VGM reflected in cargo plan
- Correct securing devices maintained
- CSAP checked only where relevant
- Heavy-weather procedures available and followed
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 15 September 2026 · page fingerprint eae7f297c189