What are the hazards associated with loading of sulphur ?

Flammability

A research report on the properties of formed sulphur was produced in 1989 by Alberta Sulphur Research Ltd., focussing on whether formed sulphur was a flammable solid within the meaning of the IMDG Code (IMO International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code) Class 4.1: Flammable Solids definition.

The result of tests included in the report led to the following declaration from the Canadian Coastguard on 7 August 1989 that: “Based upon the results of the tests, as submitted, it is agreed that formed sulphur does not meet the criteria for classification in Class 4.1.”

Corrosion

When sulphur is loaded, any retained free water filters to the bottom of the holds during the voyage. From there it is pumped out via the bilges. Some water remains on the tank tops, and together with the fines, produces a sulphurous mud.

There are two processes whereby a corrosion reaction can occur, namely