What are the codes related to bulk carriers?
Short answer
| Code | Mandatory | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| IMSBC Code | Yes (SOLAS VI) | Solid bulk cargo safety, liquefaction and shift prevention |
| Grain Code | Yes (SOLAS VI) | Grain stability criteria, Document of Authorization |
| BLU Code | No | Safe loading/unloading, hull stress prevention |
| SOLAS Chapter XII | Yes | Structural/flooding safety for bulk carriers |
| ESP Code | Yes | Enhanced surveys, thickness measurements |
- IMSBC Code: Mandatory under SOLAS chapter VI, classifies solid bulk cargoes into Group A (may liquefy), Group B (chemical hazard) and Group C, with individual schedules for properties, stowage, ventilation and precautions
- Grain Code: Mandatory under SOLAS chapter VI (resolution MSC.23(59)), sets grain stability criteria and requires a Document of Authorization to carry grain
- BLU Code: Recommendatory (resolution A.862(20)), governs safe loading/unloading, ship-shore interface, loading/unloading plan and safety checklist to prevent hull over-stressing
- SOLAS Chapter XII: Mandatory, additional safety measures for bulk carriers including damage stability to survive flooding of any one hold (150 m+ single-side-skin ships), water-ingress detection and alarms
- ESP Code: Mandatory, International Code on the Enhanced Programme of Inspections, requires close-up surveys and thickness measurements for bulk carriers
- Indian framework: MS Act 2025 section 147 gives effect to SOLAS VI/XII and the codes; DGMA/its RO surveys and issues documents
- Chief Engineer: Maintains survival machinery (water-ingress alarms, bilge/ballast systems) that SOLAS XII relies on
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.