Longview Longshoremen Target Cargo Cranes

Cargo cranes on board vessels calling at Longview, WA in the United States are coming under scrutiny from International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) inspectors. 

Recent incidents concern calling vessels failing strict ILWU crane inspections carried out prior to cargo operations.

A common finding is grooving of crane sheaves which are deemed by ILWU inspectors to be excessive and in contravention of Rule 266 of the ILWU Code.

It would appear that Rule 266 is broad in scope so as a consequence any noticeable grooving, no matter how minor, is grounds for failing the inspection. Even if grooving is within the limits set by the crane manufacturer, it will be disregarded by the ILWU and they must be repaired before stevedores will commence work. The scope for negotiation is reported to be limited.

In most cases these problems have been resolved by appointing local workshops to carry out repairs to the sheaves, often at significant cost.

Berth/terminal fees are very high at Longview and can quickly accumulate if the vessel is sat waiting for repairs the while the various parties agree who is responsible for paying for repairs.

Stevedores in the port of Longview are reportedly very busy. If a vessel misses a slot whilst repair works are negotiated or carried out, the vessel falls to the bottom of the queue and may have to wait several days before stevedores are allocated again.

North thanks the following for their advice on this issue:

• James McCurdy at Lindsay & Hart LLP
• John Stacey of Alexander Gow