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There was some confusion as to the safety of LNG transportation during Germanischer Lloyd’s press dinner in London when the German classification seemed to make a U-turn on the generally accepted view that there is no risk of LNG exploding.

During a presentation in which GL outlined its involvement in a study with the Port of Hamburg to assess the technical feasibility of LNG storage and bunkering stations, journalists sought clarification on the risk factors surrounding LNG transportation.


 
 
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A team consisting of the chief officer and a number of deck crew were engaged in the renewal of the runner wire of a deck crane on a cargo ship. When the joint between the old and new wire ropes would not pass through the jib head sheave, one of the seamen climbed on top of the block to push the wire through the block.

 
 
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Lower earnings for tankers that carry energy products are sparking concern about possible cuts in spending on maintenance and crews, according to an industry group representing companies including BP Plc.“We’re beginning to see the start of a trend,” David Cotterell, director of the London-based Oil Companies International Marine Forum, said by phone today. Four “serious” tanker fires took place in the first quarter, resulting in the loss of 15 lives, he said separately by e-mail.

 
 
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At a prominent Far Eastern port, during a spot inspection by authorities, a very unsafe method of inter-barge transfer of diesel oil was observed.