by Keith Wallis

JAPANs Mitsui OSK Lines has launched a training programme for officers and ratings operating very large ore carriers to help overcome safety concerns raised by sailing such large vessels.

The simulator-based system, which uses a generic 300,000 dwt VLOC, has been jointly developed in conjunction with MOL�s wholly-owned subsidiary MO Marine Consulting to help improve the safe handling of large ore carriers and capesize vessels.

The shipping company, which has a fleet of five 300,000 dwt VLOCs and 20 large bulkers of more than 200,000 dwt, said large ore carriers face difficulties when making port calls for loading, discharging and bunkering. The challenges include navigating through narrow channels, strong tidal currents, congested vessel traffic and ships at anchorage.

MOL coal and iron ore carrier division associate general manager Matsunori Mizoguchi told Lloyd�s List that the system was demonstrated last Friday to 35 people representing 25 shipowners with close ties to MOL.

He said these were all Japanese shipowners and shipmanagers.

Aside from MOL, a raft of shipping companies, including Shinwa Kaiun Kaisha and Nippon Steel Shipping, operate large ore carriers of around 230,000 dwt.

Mr Mizoguchi said the system would be made available to shipowners in Japan and shipmanagers in the Philippines, as well as being incorporated into the syllabus at MOL�s training centres in Tokyo, Manila and Mumbai in India.

Mr Mizoguchi said the company had to introduce a new simulator system in Manila and that VLOC training would start next year.

The shipping line has already implemented a variety of measures to enhance safe operation of VLOCs.

These include appointing experienced Japanese captains as maritime advisers at loading and discharging ports to assist bridge crews, and providing onboard support during maiden voyages of VLOCs.