Intertanko sets record straight

He says the calculations are simple and done by the Class Society, and once a tank is designated by HBL loading, it will always be loaded in that way. While the crew will have to calculate the cargo allowable in each HBL tank depending on its density, a simple table can be used, he says.

As to monitoring compliance, he says measurements of the ullage space is a standard procedure for commercial purposes, and PSC authorities will also seek to confirm a vessel using HBL is indeed conforming to the regulations. Also Stena says it will pay for a surveyor nominated by the charterer to come aboard its HBL ships to check the calculations and volumes loaded and unloaded.