Which codes apply exclusively to bulk carriers, and what does each one do?
Short answer
| Instrument | Status | Guards against |
|---|---|---|
| IMSBC Code | mandatory, SOLAS chapter VI | liquefaction, chemical hazard, cargo shift |
| Grain Code (MSC.23(59)) | mandatory, SOLAS chapter VI | grain shift and loss of stability |
| BLU Code (A.862(20)) | recommendatory | hull over-stress during loading and unloading |
| SOLAS chapter XII | mandatory | structural failure and flooding of a hold |
| ESP Code | mandatory enhanced surveys | structural deterioration over the ship’s life |
- IMSBC Code (mandatory, SOLAS chapter VI): solid bulk cargoes in Group A (may liquefy), B (chemical hazard, MHB) and C with a schedule per cargo; unlisted cargoes assessed before loading (§1.3.1).
- Grain Code (mandatory, MSC.23(59)): grain settles and shifts, so grain stability criteria and a Document of Authorization based on approved grain loading information.
- BLU Code (A.862(20), recommendatory) with the BLU Manual: the ship-shore interface, the agreed loading and unloading plan and sequence, against hull over-stressing from rapid or uneven loading.
- SOLAS chapter XII: additional safety measures for bulk carriers: structural strength, surviving flooding of one hold (150 m and over, high-density cargo), water-ingress alarms.
- ESP Code: the enhanced survey programme (close-up survey, thickness measurements) for bulk carriers and tankers.
- As Chief Engineer: the IMSBC monitoring and bilges, loading stress, and the SOLAS XII water-ingress alarms and bilge and ballast systems are mine.
Full answer
The full answer explains each point step by step, with the regulations and figures behind it and the discussion from other candidates. It is in the MEO Class I section of the Marine One forum, open to members enrolled for the MEO Class I exam.