BIMCO Basic IMSBC Code Chart: Step-by-Step Guide

(Non all-inclusive chart for basic compliance requirements of a bulk cargo)

IMSBC Code – The Basics IMSBC Code - Classification IMSBC Code -

Miscelleanous

The Code does not The Code does not Solid bulk cargoes categorized into three distinct groups in the Code:
cover grain cargoes cover solid cargoes in
– regulated by the bags, or similar
International Grain packaged goods – Entry into
Code regulated by the IMDG Group C: enclosed spaces;
Group A:
Code (International Group B: Non- A.1050 (27)
Cargoes that
Maritime Dangerous Cargoes that possess chemical hazards harzardous
may liquefy
Goods Code) cargoes Pesticides;
(cargoes Recommendations
that do not MSC .1/circ.1264
Before accepting cargo for shipment, shipper must meet Group & circ. 1396
Risk: Dangerous goods; Materials
provide master with cargo information and signed A
Liquefaction, (e.g. cargoes that Hazardous Only
cargo declaration form (ref. s 4) or B) Loading Plan
cargo shift, have been assigned in Bulk (MHB);
Cargoes that do agreed between
capsizing by a UN number by
not meet the Master and
the United Nations
criteria for Terminal
Sub-Committee of Some cargoes
Correct Bulk Cargo shipping Cargo’s physical inclusion in the Representative
Experts on the may still
name (BCSN) – Important and chemical IMDG classes for (SOLAS Reg. VI/7,
Cargoes prone Transport of carry some
(Implications) properties dangerous BLU Code)
to Dangerous Goods) risks e.g. iron
(s 4.2.2) goods.
liquefaction: ore and high
CO2 fire fighting
Contain a density
exemption (MSC
certain cargoes –
If cargo’s BCSN is not in the Code, 1/circ.1395/rev.1)
quantity of overstressing
it is considered a cargo not listed in the Code for certain solid
moisture and Risk: Fire or explosion due to chemical the tanktop.
bulk cargoes (ref:
small fine hazards, release of toxic gases and
SOLAS regulation
particles corrosion, damage to ship structures due to Trim level,
II-2/10.7.1.4)
Section 1.3 of the Code applies – Shipper’s poor loading procedures. consider ship
responsibility to provide cargo information to ballasting and
Cargo Residues,
competent authority at port of loading (CA-PL) for loading
hold washing
assessment of the appropriate carriage Requirements: sequences.
Requirements: water & HME
requirements (1) TML/moisture
(1) Doc of Compliance/dangerous substances
certificates Sand, cement
goods for ship. Special list, manifest (ref: MARPOL
(2) MC < TML – generation
or stowage plan. Instructions for Annex V)
If assessed as (3) Certificate on of dust.
If assessed as Group C, CA-PL Group A or B, shipper’s emergency response.
(2) Segregation requirements Contact details of
will authorise carriage and CA tripartite procedures Follow
important. CAs (BC.1/circ.72)
– port of discharge (CA-PD) agreement precautions in
and vessel’s Flag State (FS) required from Code.
DSC.1/circ.71-iron
will be informed CA-PL, CA-PD Disclaimer: The information contained in this chart is based on ore fines
and FS. information from the IMSBC Code and is provided for general guidance
and information purposes only. Whilst every effort is made to ensure
CA-PL provides master with certificate of cargo that the chart is accurate and up to date, BIMCO does not warrant, nor
schedule, i.e. cargo characteristics and carriage does it accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy or
requirements. CA-PL will also inform IMO of same. 14 Jan 2015
completeness of the chart or for any loss or damages which may arise
BIMCO Marine Department
from reliance on the information contained in the chart