{"id":23747,"date":"2026-01-22T20:02:26","date_gmt":"2026-01-22T20:02:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/krogragg.com\/?p=23747"},"modified":"2026-01-22T20:02:26","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T20:02:26","slug":"ics-releases-new-deck-procedures-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/krogragg.com\/?p=23747","title":{"rendered":"ICS releases new Deck Procedures Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

ICS releases new Deck Procedures Guide
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The International Chamber of Shipping <\/a>(ICS) has released its new Deck Procedures Guide, which, it says, addresses a critical gap in maritime safety guidance by providing the industry\u2019s first comprehensive resource dedicated specifically to deck operations.<\/p>\n

Together with the ICS Bridge Procedures Guide and Engine Room Procedures Guide, the new publication completes a trilogy of core resources designed to harmonize best practice across all shipboard departments. Providing department-specific procedures, they form part of ICS\u2019s broader portfolio of safety publications that support shipowners and operators worldwide.<\/p>\n

Covering the full spectrum of deck-side activities, the guide includes practical procedures for cargo operations, mooring and anchoring, bunkering, heavy weather preparations, and maintenance of core equipment across all ship types. It also features guidance on compliance with the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, as well as an interactive risk assessment tool and adaptable checklists to support safe and efficient operations. One chapter addresses the emerging challenge of alternative fuel bunkering, including LNG, methanol, and ammonia, developed in collaboration with leading operators and reviewed by the Society for Gas as Marine Fuel (SGMF).<\/p>\n

\u201cDeck operations are fundamental to ship safety, and crews need clear, validated procedures for every scenario they face,\u201d said John Stawpert, principal director \u2013 marine at the International Chamber of Shipping. \u201cThis guide delivers that comprehensive knowledge, from traditional practices to new considerations such as alternative fuels, helping crews operate confidently while maintaining the highest safety standards.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Deck Procedures Guide has been developed through a review process involving representatives from Swire Shipping, Anglo-Eastern Univan Group, Japanese Shipowners Association, MISC Group, Intercargo, and CLIA.<\/p>\n

It provides structured guidance for all key deck operations, supported by practical checklists and risk assessment tools that help identify and mitigate hazards before they occur. The content is designed to be adaptable, enabling organisations to tailor procedures to their specific operational needs while ensuring compliance with international codes.<\/p>\n

The guide is designed as an invaluable tool for masters, chief officers, deck officers, bosuns and other members of deck crew, as well as engineering officers responsible for deck machinery and crew involved in bunkering operations. ICS recommends that a copy is carried on board every ship.<\/p>\n

It also serves ship superintendents, technical superintendents, HSEQ managers, shipping company shoreside safety teams, training institutions, terminal operators, and organisations transitioning to alternative fuel operations.<\/p>\n

\u201cEvery onboard department needs to work together to ensure the safety and security of the crew, ship, environment and cargo,\u201d commented Emily Yates, Commercial Director at the International Chamber of Shipping. \u201cThe Deck Procedures Guide complements the Bridge and Engine Room Procedures Guides, creating a harmonised set of resources that uphold best practice across ship operations. While aligned for consistency, each guide is tailored to its audience, ensuring masters, engineers, and deck crews receive guidance directly relevant to their responsibilities. These guides work together to improve operational coordination and inter-departmental communication throughout the vessel, alongside ICS\u2019s broader portfolio of safety publications.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Deck Procedures Guide offers an international alternative to region-specific guidance, reducing deck deficiencies while enhancing safety standards and port state control confidence. The guide emphasises best practice approaches rather than regulatory mandates, providing practical guidance applicable to today\u2019s global fleet.<\/p>\n