INTERCARGO calls for continued vigilance on bulk carrier safety
INTERCARGO is closely monitoring developments following the loss of the bulk carrier MV Ocean Winner in the Bay of Bengal on 22 August and is deeply concerned by reports that 22 seafarers remain missing following the casualty. This follows the earlier loss of the bulk carrier Devon Bay in January, in which lives were also lost.
INTERCARGO extends its deepest sympathies to the families, colleagues and loved ones of all those affected by these tragic casualties. Our immediate thoughts remain with the missing seafarers ofOcean Winner, their families, and those involved in the continuing search and rescue operation.
Casualties of this nature are a matter of concern for the entire dry bulk shipping community. Every serious casualty must reinforce our collective determination to protect the lives of those serving at sea.
INTERCARGO believes three actions are now essential
First, the causes and contributing factors surrounding the loss of Ocean Winner must be established through a thorough, independent and timely investigation. The relevant authorities should complete and publish their findings as soon as possible, so that verified lessons can be shared transparently and acted upon across the industry.
Second, the industry must continue to apply the lessons already identified through long-term casualty analysis. INTERCARGO’s Bulk Carrier Casualty Report 2026, published annually since 1994, shows that significant progress has been made in reducing bulk carrier losses. During the period covered, the global bulk carrier fleet grew from approximately 10,400 vessels to more than 13,600, while the rate of vessel losses declined significantly. At the same time, the Report makes clear that serious and evolving risks remain.
Third, all parties involved in the cargo chain must maintain rigorous safeguards for the safe carriage of bulk cargoes, strictly in accordance with the IMSBC code.
Safe carriage is a shared responsibility across the entire cargo chain. Shipowners and Masters cannot carry it alone. Shippers, terminals, Charterers, competent authorities, laboratories, surveyors, and others involved in preparing, testing, declaring and loading cargo all have important roles to play in ensuring that cargo presented for shipment is safe.
Effective oversight at loading ports and terminals, properly conducted representative sampling, reliable testing and accurate cargo declarations remain fundamental safeguards. Masters must also be fully supported when legitimate concerns arise regarding cargo condition or the adequacy of the information and certification provided.
INTERCARGO continues to take practical steps to support its members in managing these risks, including its work with the International Group of P&I Clubs and Roxburgh to issue guidance in June on the safe carriage of nickel ore cargoes in the south-western Pacific Ocean.
The safety of seafarers must remain the overriding priority.