SOLAS Regulations & Container Weighing
Approved weighing systems for SOLAS regulations
SOLAS regulations require shippers to determine the verified gross weight of a loaded container before it is loaded onto a seagoing vessel. This weight is referred to as the Verified Gross Mass (VGM). In principle, a loaded container may not be loaded onto the vessel unless a VGM is provided in a timely manner.
Accurately determining the gross weight is essential for safe ship loading planning. Incorrect weight data can lead to improper container distribution, unstable container stacks, and risks to ships, port workers, and crew members.
How is the verified gross weight determined?
According to the SOLAS regulations, the VGM can be determined in two ways:
- Method 1: The fully loaded and closed container is weighed as a whole using a suitable and certified weighing system.
- Method 2: All goods, packaging, pallets, and fasteners are weighed separately. The container’s tare weight is then added to these weights. This method must be carried out in accordance with a procedure approved by the competent authority.
Who is responsible for HSE?
The shipper listed as such in the transport document is responsible for determining,_text> correctly determining, and documenting the verified gross weight. The VGM must be provided to the shipping line and the terminal in a timely manner so that the weight can be included in the ship’s stowage plan.
SOLAS-compliant weighing systems for containers
AE Weighing Systems supplies certified weighing systems that can accurately determine the gross weight of loaded containers. Depending on the application, the weighing system can be integrated into, for example, a container stacker or another container-handling system.
This way, the container is weighed directly during the operational process, providing you with reliable weight data for VGM reporting in accordance with applicable SOLAS regulations.
