Question & AnswerQ&A (PTBP MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 02-96)
The Memorandum Circular prescribes policies and procedures for the safe handling, carriage, and transfer of dangerous goods to promote safety of life and property at sea.
The circular does not apply to vessels of Groups IV, VI, VII, and all wooden vessels carrying passengers, vessels prohibited from carrying dangerous goods, and those specifically designed to carry bulk dangerous cargo.
Dangerous cargo means goods or merchandise in solid, gas, or liquid form that exhibit dangerous properties and are taken on board a vessel.
Dangerous goods are classified into Classes 1 to 9, including explosives, gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizing substances, poisons, radioactive materials, corrosives, and miscellaneous dangerous substances.
Packaging must be well made, in good condition, not adversely affected by contents, capable of withstanding handling and carriage risks, and for liquids, include absorbent materials to minimize hazards and allow for safe ullage.
Packages must be durably marked with the correct technical name (not trade names), distinctive labels or stencils or placards to show dangerous properties, and markings must be durable to survive at least three months immersion in seawater.
It provides detailed information on dangerous cargo on board, including vessel details, cargo names, packaging, classification, stowage, loading/discharge points, permits, and signatures to ensure proper management and regulation.
They must submit a letter of application stating correct technical names, cargo owner, source, destination, and use; and the Dangerous Cargo Manifest with Stowage Plan detailing cargo storage, stowage, safety measures, and persons in charge.
First offense: 25% of cargo value or P3,000 whichever is higher; second offense: 50% or P6,000 plus recommendation for 30-day CPC suspension; third offense: 100% or P10,000 plus recommendation for indefinite CPC suspension.
No unnecessary fires, supervised necessary fires, spark screens on smoke pipes, segregation of incompatible goods, prohibition of welding/cutting except emergencies, clean bilges, proper display of flags and lights, and maintenance of propulsion and towing readiness.
The Coast Guard Station Commander or authorized representative after verification and inspection of compliance with safety requirements.
The permit is valid for one voyage only.
The master or person in charge must report the incident immediately and fully to the nearest Coast Guard Station or Detachment. If the ship is abandoned or no report is available, the owner, charterer, manager, operator, or their agents must assume these obligations.
The vessel master must carry or transfer dangerous cargo only with a valid permit, observe safety procedures, and assign watches to monitor cargo condition throughout the voyage and transfer.