Chemical Tanker Jobs

Chemical tankers carry liquid chemicals such as acids, alcohols, vegetable oils and petrochemical products. Each tank can hold a different grade, and cargo lines must be kept clean. Cargo operations include loading through manifold connections, pumping, heating or cooling, sampling and stripping tanks. Main risks are toxic vapours, fire, explosion, chemical burns, reactions between incompatible cargoes and pollution. Cargo tanks are cleaned and inspected between grades. Crew use gas detectors, vapour return lines and inert gas where required. Any mistake can damage cargo quality or harm people, so work follows strict checklists and permit systems.

Deck officers plan cargo loads, stability, tank cleaning and ports. The Chief Officer normally supervises cargo work. The Pumpman operates cargo pumps, valves and manifolds. AB and OS handle mooring, watches, and deck duties. Engine ratings look after cargo pumps, hydraulic power packs, inert gas plants and steam heating. The Electro-Technical Officer and Electrician maintain gas detection, alarm and control systems. The Master has final responsibility for safe cargo operations. All crew follow chemical handling rules and use full protective equipment for tank work.

Chemical tanker training is required under STCW V/1-1. Officers and ratings with duties related to cargo or cargo equipment must hold a certificate in basic training for oil and chemical tanker cargo operations. This basic training needs STCW basic training (STCW VI/1) plus approved seagoing service on oil or chemical tankers or an approved basic tanker training course. Masters, chief mates, chief engineers, second engineers and anyone with immediate responsibility for cargo operations must hold advanced training for chemical tanker cargo operations. Advanced training needs approved seagoing service on chemical tankers or supervised onboard training including loading and unloading operations, plus an approved advanced course.

Basic tanker training requires STCW basic training plus approved seagoing service on oil or chemical tankers or an approved basic tanker training course. Advanced chemical tanker training requires approved seagoing service on chemical tankers or supervised onboard training including loading and unloading operations, plus an approved advanced course. No separate sea service rule applies beyond these training requirements.

Seafarers must hold a valid medical certificate before beginning work on a chemical tanker. The certificate states that hearing, sight and colour vision (where relevant) are satisfactory. It must be provided at least in English on ships ordinarily engaged on international voyages.