The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC Code) 2016 Edition - What's new with MHB classification and how it will impact shippers

The Code

​The principal aim of the IMSBC Code is to enable 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 practices and procedures to be followed when planning to ship solid bulk cargoes.
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The IMSBC Code is subject to updates every two years to keep pace with the nature and variety of solid bulk cargoes presented for shipment, and developments in understanding regarding the safest ways to carry established solid bulk cargoes.

Recent Changes

In June 2015, the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) adopted the most recent amendments Resolution MSC.393 (95) specifying forthcoming changes to the IMSBC Code. Amongst the adopted amendments (03-15) are included specific changes to Section 9 of the Code Material Hazardous only in Bulk (MHB).

According to the adopted amendments, where a cargo is found to meet one or more of the chemical hazards for MHB designation as defined below, a notational reference for each hazard must be included in the “Class" cell. A summary of the notational references to be used is presented below:

Summary of Notational References for Classification of Relevant MHB Hazards

Chemical Hazard	Notational Reference
Combustible solids	CB
Self-heating solids	SH
Solids that evolve flammable gas when wet	WF
Solids that evolve toxic gas when wet	WT
Toxic solids	TX
Corrosive solids	CR
Other hazards*	OH

Resolution MSC.393(95), incorporating amendment 03-15, may be applied from the 1st of January 2016 on a voluntary basis, anticipating its envisaged official entry into force on the 1st of January 2017.

* Where deviations from the chemical hazards described in 9.2.3.2 to 9.2.3.7 of IMSBC Code have been determined (Other hazards (OH)), they shall be properly recorded with justifications. Other hazards are to be included in the section for “hazard” in the individual schedule.

Want More Information?

For further information on how to classify your solid bulk cargo to address the new MHB designation requirements or for any other maritime transport compliance query please contact Davoren Environmental  [email protected]