Applicability: All shipowners and operators involved in the carriage of solid bulk cargoes

Amendments to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code (03-15) are under development by the Carriage of Containers and Cargoes (CCC) Sub-Committee (formerly the DSC Sub-Committee). Member governments are urged to voluntarily implement the amendments as soon as possible.

The amendments include:

  • a draft individual schedule for iron ore fines (group A) which addresses the dangers relating to liquefaction
  • a revised individual schedule for iron ore (group C)
  • a new draft test procedure – "Modified Proctor/ Fagerberg test procedure for iron ore fines" – for inclusion in appendix 2 to the IMSBC Code.

Owners and Masters are reminded that cargoes with a moisture content higher than the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML) must not be accepted for loading.

Guidance on carrying solid bulk cargoes safely

Lloyd’s Register, the UK P&I Club, and Intercargo have produced a pocket guide for ships’ officers and agents who arrange cargoes for loading.

This outlines the precautions to be taken before accepting solid bulk cargoes for shipment; sets out procedures for safe loading and carriage; details the primary hazards associated with different types of cargo; and underlines the importance of proper cargo declarations. A quick reference checklist and flowchart summarise the steps to be followed.

For further information 

Speak to one of our experts at your local Lloyd's Register office.