Safety of container ship (un)loading operations in the Port of Antwerp: Impact of passing shipping traffic. Issue 1 (18th March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Zwijnsvoorde, Thibaut; Vantorre, Marc; Eloot, Katrien; Ides, Stefaan
• Is Part Of: Maritime business review. Volume 4:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 106
• Page End: 127
• Publication Date: 2019-03-18
• Subjects: Ultra large container ship -- Safety of container handling -- Passing vessel effects -- Mooring line arrangement -- Mitigating measures; Shipping -- Periodicals; 387.5
• DOI: 10.1108/MABR-09-2018-0033
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2397-3757

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Economies of scale drive container ship owners towards ordering larger vessels. Terminals need to ensure a safe (un)loading operation of these vessels, which can only be guaranteed if the mooring equipment is not overloaded (lines, fenders and bollards) and if the motions of the vessel remain below set limits, under external forces. This paper aims to focus on the passing vessel effect as a potential disturbing factor in the Port of Antwerp. Design/methodology/approach: Motion criteria for allowing safe (un)loading of container vessels are established by considering the container handling process and existing international standards (PIANC). A case study simulation is presented where the behaviour of the moored vessel under ship passages is evaluated. Starting from a representative event, the effect of changes in passing speed and distance is discussed. Findings: The study illustrates the influence of passing velocity and distance on the behaviour of the moored vessel, showing that when passing speeds are higher and/or distances lower than the reference event, safety limits are potentially exceeded. Possible mitigating measures, including the use of stiffer mooring lines and/or a change in arrangement, are discussed. Research limitations/implications: This paper serves as a basis for future research on safety criteria and optimisation of the mooring equipment and configuration to deal with passing vessel effects. Practical implications: The presented results can be used by ship and terminal designers to gain familiarity with passing vessel effects and adopt suggested best practice. Social implications: By restricting the motions of the passing vessels, the focus and general well-being of the crane operator is enhanced, as is the safety of workers. Originality/value: The paper provides a unique combination of container fleet observation, safety criteria establishment and case study application.