by Capt.T.K .Panda
10. October 2009 22:58
IMSBC Code 2009
International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, 2009 Edition.
The IMSBC Code replaces the Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes (BC Code). The IMSBC Code, adopted on 4 December 2008 by resolution MSC.268(85), may be applied from 1 January 2009 on a voluntary basis, anticipating its envisaged official entry into force on 1 January 2011.
The primary aim of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, which replaces the Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes, is to facilitate the safe stowage and shipment of solid bulk cargoes by providing information on the dangers associated with the shipment of certain types of solid bulk cargoes and instructions on the procedures to be adopted when the shipment of solid bulk cargoes is contemplated.
Timeline
The IMSBC Code may be applied from 1 January 2009 on a voluntary basis, anticipating its envisaged official entry into force on 1 January 2011, from which date it will be mandatory under the provision of the SOLAS Convention under Chapte VI (Carriage of Cargoes ) and VII (carriage of Dangerous Goods) .
Changes
In ordr to keep pace with the expansion and progress of industry, in recent years, the Code has undergone many changes, including:
· Fully updated individual schedules for solid bulk cargoes
· New individual schedules for such cargoes as spent cathodes and granulated tyre rubber
· New provisions about sulphur
· References to the most recent SOLAS amendments
This publication presents additional information that supplements the IMSBC Code , such as the Code of Practice for the Safe Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers (BLU Code)and Recommendations on the Safe Use of Pesticides in Ships applicable to the fumigation of cargo holds.
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code and Supplement is recommended to Administrations, shipowners, shippers and masters and all others concerned with the standards to be applied in the safe stowage and shipment of solid bulk cargoes, excluding grain.
This code has 13 Sections and 4 appendices as compared 2004 edition BC Code which was having 12 sections and 5 appendices. Section 11 – Security provision which was the additional section in IMSBC Code. Appendix 5 is deleted exemption for fixed firefighting system amd appenidx 4 is replaced with index. Try interprete with the words Shall,Should and may as below.
Shall - Mandatory
Should- Recommened
May – Optional
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