Abstract:
This research is motivated by the high operational risk on the car carrier vessel
MV. Spring Wind, specifically regarding cargo damage in the form of scratches on
vehicle bodies during loading and unloading processes. Such damage leads to a decrease
in the aesthetic and resale value of the vehicles, which could diminish the vessel's
operational reputation and reduce charterer trust if it continues to reoccur. This study aims
to evaluate the implementation of the vehicle loading and unloading process in terms of
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) compliance and to identify the causal factors
triggering the scratch damage.
The methodology employed in this study is descriptive qualitative. Data collection
was carried out during the Sea Practice (PRALA) period from August 1, 2024, to August
5, 2025, onboard MV. Spring Wind within Southeast Asian operational routes. Data were
gathered through a triangulation method combining direct observations of cargo handling
activities (stevedoring, cargodoring, receiving/delivery), semi-structured interviews with
the Chief Officer, Bosun, and Able Seamen (AB), as well as documentation reviews of
Cargo Handling Procedures for PCC, cargo manifests, tally sheets, and damage reports.
The results indicate that the loading and unloading operations on MV. Spring
Wind do not fully comply with the established SOP. It was observed that some vehicle
operators performed maneuvers hastily and carelessly inside the car deck due to
operational time pressure and the port wage system. This condition was not in accordance
with the vehicle loading and unloading procedures, which emphasize the prevention of
rough driving during both loading and unloading operations. Furthermore, the tight
spacing of vehicles in areas like Deck No. 8 Hold 4 to maximize cargo capacity severely
restricted safe maneuvering space. Overall, the primary factors causing scratch damage
on vehicles include a combination of limited maneuvering space, suboptimal supervision
due to a shortage of personnel, dim cargo hold lighting affecting visibility, and human
error from rushed operators. To minimize these risks, it is recommended to tighten SOP
discipline, conduct routine safety briefings, improve lighting conditions, and consider
integrating IoT and AI-based monitoring technologies as a long-term solution.
