2.1.1 Ship cargo spaces, tank top ceilings and
other parts of the ship should be kept in a good state of repair to
avoid infestation. Many ports of the world have rules and by-laws
dealing specifically with the maintenance of ships intended to carry
grain cargoes; for example, boards and ceilings should be completely
grain tight.
2.1.2 Cleanliness, or good housekeeping, is as
important a means of controlling pests on a ship as it is in a home,
warehouse, mill or factory. Since insect pests on ships become established
and multiply in debris, much can be done to prevent their increase
by simple, thorough cleaning. Box beams and stiffeners, for example,
become filled with debris during discharge of cargo and unless kept
clean can become a source of heavy infestation. It is important to
remove thoroughly all cargo residues from deckhead frames and longitudinal
deck girders at the time of discharge, preferably when the cargo level
is suitable for convenient cleaning. Where available, industrial vacuum
cleaners are of value for the cleaning of cargo spaces and fittings.
2.1.3 The material collected during cleaning should
be disposed of, or treated, immediately so that the insects cannot
escape and spread to other parts of the ship or elsewhere. In port
it may be burnt or treated with a pesticide, but in many countries
such material may only be landed under phytosanitary supervision.
Where destruction ashore is not practicable, the sweepings should
be jettisoned well out to sea. If any part of the ship is being fumigated
the material may be left exposed to the gas.