Fertilisers

Fertilisers, as raw materials or granulated for direct use in agriculture, are globally traded in a vast range of compositions, appearances and as both bulk (IMSBC Code) and packaged (IMDG Code) commodities. Whilst fertiliser claims in maritime trading are mostly related to their quality and condition (e.g. caking and/or wetting), some fertiliser grades, such as ammonium nitrate, are classified as dangerous goods and can cause serious incidents and casualties.

Cases that arise from fertiliser carriage range from quality disputes or damage claims, through to total loss of the ship and crew casualties due to violent decomposition of fertilisers. Common incidents include high loading temperatures, caking, water damage, contamination, ammonia smells, decomposition and explosion risks, and misdeclaration. At Brookes Bell, our experienced Scientists can apply their industry-leading expertise on fertiliser cargoes.