Following precautions shall be taken by the Master prior signing the Bill of Lading -

1. Ensure Bill of Lading is in a format which is approved by the Charters / Owners
2. Ensure the B/L is correctly dated
3. Ensure the B/L is in conformance with the Mate's Receipt
4. Ensure that Marginal Clauses, if really required, are inserted
5. Ensure if the freight is prepaid or not and you have clear permission from the Charter and Owners to sign the B/L
6. Ensure that owners right is always preserved
7. Ensure the number of copies of B/L issued and all are signed
6.