The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code 2020 Edition

The IMSBC Code & Supplement, 2020 Edition was published by the IMO in October 2019. This new edition incorporates amendment 05-19 (Resolution MSC.462(101)), which may be applied from 1 January 2020 on a voluntary basis[1], anticipating its envisaged official entry into force on 1 January 2021.

To keep pace with the expansion and progress of the industry, the IMSBC Code, as amended, includes:

• Fully updated individual schedules for solid bulk cargoes. In addition, the following 10 new schedules have been added to Appendix 1:

  • Bauxite Fines (Bauxite schedule also amended)

  • Brucite

  • Calcium Fluoride, Calcium Sulphate, Calcium Carbonate Mixture

  • Chlorite

  • Ferronickel Slag (granulated)

  • Flue Dust, Containing Lead and Zinc

  • Matte Containing Copper and Lead

  • Metal Sulphide Concentrates, Self-Heating UN 3190

  • Seed Cakes and Other Residues of Processed Oily Vegetables

  • Zinc Oxide Enriched Flue Dust

• References to the text of SOLAS 1974 as most recently amended;

• Updated information from the 2018 edition of the IMDG Code.

Other notable updates to the IMSBC Code include the following:

• In Appendix 2, a new, modified Proctor/Fagerberg test procedure for bauxite.

• MSC.1/Circ.1395/Rev.4 Lists of solid bulk cargoes for which a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may be exempted or for which a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system is ineffective (updated from MSC.1/Circ.1395/Rev.2 in 2018 edition);

• MSC.1/Circ.1396 Amendment to the Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships applicable to the fumigation of cargo holds (MSC.1/Circ.1264);

• BC.1/Circ.74/Corr.1 Contact names and addresses of designated national competent authorities responsible for the safe carriage of grain and solid bulk cargoes.

Want More Information?

For further information on how we can assist your company with transport compliance requirements for solid bulk cargoes please contact Davoren Environmental  maria@davorenenvironmental.com.au

[1] In accordance with Marine Order 34, the IMSBC Code in voluntary effect may be used – so the 2020 edition can be used from 1 January 2020 in Australia. This new edition will not render obsolete the previous 2018 edition which remains valid until December 31, 2020.