ICS - Ship to ship transfer guide for petroleum, chemicals and liquefied gases

Master the complexities of ship-to-ship transfers with the definitive industry guide
Navigating the challenges of transferring petroleum, chemicals, and liquefied gases between vessels demands precision, expertise, and unwavering adherence to safety protocols. The Ship to Ship Transfer Guide for Petroleum, Chemicals and Liquefied Gases is the most trusted resource for maritime professionals, offering a complete framework for planning, executing, and monitoring STS operations. Developed by a coalition of industry leaders—including OCIMF, SIGTTO, CDI, and ICS—this guide bridges the gap between regulatory compliance and real-world operational excellence.

Comprehensive coverage for high-stakes cargo transfers
This guide addresses every critical aspect of STS operations, from risk assessment and vessel compatibility to crew workload management and fatigue prevention. It provides actionable recommendations for minimum equipment standards, safety protocols, and operational best practices, ensuring that transfers are conducted with the highest level of precision. Whether handling crude oil, refined products, or liquefied gases like LPG and LNG, users gain access to proven strategies that minimize risks while maximizing efficiency.

Updated chapters and practical tools for modern maritime challenges
The latest edition introduces a dedicated chapter on human factors, emphasizing the role of crew preparedness and decision-making in safe operations. Key updates also include revised sections on personnel transfers and cargo operations for petroleum, chemicals, and gas, reflecting the latest industry advancements. To further enhance operational reliability, the guide includes six Ship to Ship Safety Checklists, aligned with ISGOTT standards, providing a structured approach to verifying safety measures before, during, and after transfers.

Built on decades of industry expertise and regulatory alignment
With over 50 years of collective experience, this guide consolidates the knowledge of leading maritime organizations into a single, authoritative resource. It replaces previous editions, including the Ship to Ship Transfer Guide (Petroleum) and Ship to Ship Transfer Guide (Liquefied Gas), ensuring users have access to the most current and comprehensive information. Published by Witherby-Seamanship, this guide is designed to evolve alongside regulatory changes, making it an indispensable tool for professionals committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

This essential industry guide is available in both printed and eBook formats, offering flexibility for maritime professionals. The printed edition, published in September 2025, weighs 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) with a shipping weight of 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs). It is the 2nd edition, updated to include critical revisions such as a dedicated chapter on human factors, enhanced sections on personnel and cargo transfers, and six Ship to Ship Safety Checklists aligned with ISGOTT standards. Written in English, this 2013 edition remains the current reference for STS operations, replacing earlier guides for petroleum and liquefied gases.

With a legacy of shaping global maritime standards, this publisher is a trusted name in the industry, known for producing authoritative guides that bridge the gap between regulatory requirements and practical application. Their publications are developed in collaboration with leading organizations, ensuring that each resource reflects the latest advancements in safety, technology, and operational best practices. Designed for professionals who demand precision and reliability, their guides are essential tools for navigating the complexities of modern maritime operations.

• This guide delivers unparalleled value by combining decades of industry expertise with practical, actionable insights for safe and efficient ship-to-ship transfers. Its comprehensive coverage of risk assessment, vessel compatibility, and operational best practices ensures compliance with the highest safety standards, while updated chapters on human factors and cargo operations address modern maritime challenges. The inclusion of structured safety checklists and alignment with ISGOTT standards further enhances operational reliability, making it an indispensable resource for professionals handling petroleum, chemicals, and liquefied gases.