ANALISIS PROSES BONGKAR MUAT TERHADAP KERUSAKAN GORESAN (SCRATCH) PADA MUATAN KENDARAAN DI MV. SPRING WIND

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.