Cargo Securing Manual and Cargo Lashing
The approved Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) connects the actual cargo with the ship’s stowage arrangements, limits and securing devices. It is used before departure and during the voyage; applicability follows the ship and cargo, while the 2026 CIC checks existing requirements.
Operational Explanation
The approved CSM explains how to stow and secure cargo in the actual configuration. 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.
To use it, identify the drawings and instructions for the proposed configuration, mass and distribution limits, usable securing points and fixed and portable devices with their maximum securing load (MSL). Compare these with the actual cargo and installed equipment: the number and geometry of lashings, compatibility and component condition must be checked together.
The inspection and maintenance scheme and its records complete this comparison. A worn or damaged device whose quality is impaired must be replaced under the instructions; having the manual on board does not demonstrate that the installation or equipment complies with it.
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 | Revise the CSM for new or alternative device types and follow the applicable Administration revision/approval procedure |
| 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
Certified substantive revision: 15 October 2026 · page fingerprint 98d32e0640de