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LR strengthens Middle East naval presence with Hossam Edris appointment. Based in Dubai, Edris will lead LR's naval and defence business development activities across the region. Lloyd's Register (LR) has appointed Hossam Edris as Naval Business Director for the Middle East, strengthening its capability to support naval and defence programmes across one of the world's fastest-growing maritime defence markets. Based in Dubai, Edris will lead LR's naval and defence business development activities across the region, working closely with government and industry stakeholders as they modernise fleets, strengthen sovereign defence capabilities and adopt advanced maritime technologies. His appointment further enhances LR's ability to support navies and defence organisations in addressing evolving operational, assurance and technology challenges while enabling the safe adoption of innovation across the maritime defence sector. Edris brings more than 20 years of international experience across the aerospace, defence, aviation and technology sectors. Most recently, he managed International Defense Programs at Bombardier Defense, where he led complex defence programmes for customers worldwide, overseeing programme delivery, business performance, customer engagement and strategic growth initiatives. David Lloyd, Vice President, Naval and Government Business, LR, said: "The Middle East is one of the most dynamic naval markets in the world, with governments investing heavily in new fleet capabilities, defence shipbuilding and maritime security. "As these programmes grow in scale and complexity, the need for trusted independent assurance becomes increasingly important. Hossam's appointment strengthens our ability to support naval authorities, shipyards and defence partners with the technical expertise and confidence they need to deliver successful programmes. His understanding of both the regional landscape and the wider defence sector makes him exceptionally well placed to lead our growth in the Middle East." Hossam Edris, Naval Business Director, Middle East, LR, said: "The Middle East is undertaking some of the most ambitious naval and maritime defence programmes anywhere in the world. Governments across the region are investing in fleet renewal, domestic shipbuilding capability and advanced technologies to strengthen operational readiness and long-term resilience. "LR has a strong reputation for independent assurance and technical excellence, and I look forward to working closely with customers across the region to help them manage technical complexity, reduce programme risk and deliver capability with confidence."

Lloyd's Register, Jurong Port strengthen cargo securing guidance. September 30, 2026 Lloyd's Register and Singapore's Jurong Port have strengthened guidance on cargo securing, aiming to improve safety and operational standards for cargo handling and transportation. The collaboration focuses on reinforcing practices for securing cargo and ensuring that loads remain stable during handling and movement. Effective cargo securing is essential for preventing shifting, damage and safety incidents across the logistics chain. The updated guidance is expected to provide operators and cargo stakeholders with clearer practices for assessing cargo conditions, securing arrangements and handling requirements. It can support greater consistency in cargo operations and help reduce risks associated with improperly secured loads. Jurong Port handles a wide range of cargo and plays an important role in Singapore's maritime and logistics ecosystem. The port's operations include conventional and project cargo, making appropriate securing procedures particularly important for safe vessel and terminal operations. Lloyd's Register brings expertise in maritime safety, technical standards and risk management to the initiative. Its involvement is expected to support the application of recognised industry practices to cargo securing operations. The strengthened guidance comes as ports, shipowners and logistics operators continue to focus on improving cargo safety and reducing operational risks across increasingly complex supply chains. The initiative could also contribute to greater awareness among cargo owners, terminal operators and other stakeholders about the importance of proper securing procedures throughout the cargo-handling process. By strengthening cargo securing practices, Lloyd's Register and Jurong Port aim to support safer and more reliable cargo operations while promoting higher standards across the maritime logistics sector.

New cargo securing guidance prioritises personnel safety and reduces damage risks. Lloyd's Register (LR) has worked with Jurong Port in Singapore to revise its Best Practice Guidelines for Stowage and Securing of Steel & General Cargoes, placing personnel safety at the heart of cargo operations. The updated guidance aims to ensure the safety of all personnel engaged in cargo handling activities, while also helping prevent cargo damage and improve the efficiency of discharge operations across ports and supply chains. Despite advances in vessel design and cargo handling, poor stowage, inadequate securing arrangements and inconsistent cargo presentation continue to contribute to cargo damage, operational delays and safety incidents. As supply chains become more complex and project cargoes and steel products continue to grow in size and value, ensuring cargo is prepared correctly before it reaches the port has become increasingly important. The new guidance seeks to address these challenges by promoting a more consistent and practical approach to cargo preparation, stowage and securing. It provides practical recommendations for cargo owners, shippers, vessel operators, stevedores and terminal operators to reduce risk throughout the cargo handling process. The revised guidelines were assessed against key international regulations, including the IMO Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code), IMO MSC.1/Circ.1353 on Cargo Securing Manuals, relevant provisions of the ISM Code and recognised industry best practice for the transport and handling of general cargo. LR's review focused on the practical realities of transporting and discharging general cargoes, covering areas such as cargo accessibility, segregation, dunnage arrangements, bundling methods, lashing practices and the presentation of cargo for safe and efficient stevedoring operations. Discover more Cargo freight services Shipping news subscription The revised guidance also incorporates lessons learned from operational experience and common deficiencies observed in general cargo shipments. Taylor Wamburg, Regional Advisory Lead, Lloyd's Register, said: "The industry continues to see avoidable cargo damage, safety risks and operational disruption resulting from poor stowage, inadequate securing arrangements and insufficient consideration of discharge requirements. "Good guidance bridges the gap between regulatory requirements and the practical realities of cargo operations. By working with Jurong Port to update these guidelines, we are helping the industry adopt safer, more consistent practices that protect people, cargo and vessels while supporting more efficient port operations." Willie Liao, Senior Manager, Strategic Port Planning & Transformation, Jurong Port, said: "Good stowage, adequate securing and careful planning for discharge requirements are critical to safe and efficient cargo operations. "By working with Lloyd's Register to strengthen these guidelines, we aim to promote greater consistency in industry practices that reduce safety risks, cargo damage and operational disruptions, while improving the productivity and reliability of cargo handling." Source: Lloyd's Register