IMSBC Code

The IMSBC Code governs the safe carriage of solid bulk cargoes other than grain, mandatory under SOLAS Chapter VI from 1 January 2011. It groups cargoes as Group A (may liquefy when the moisture limit is exceeded), Group B (possessing a chemical hazard such as self-heating or oxygen depletion), and Group C (neither). For each listed cargo it gives a schedule of stowage, trimming, ventilation, and emergency procedures, and it sets the transportable moisture limit test for Group A cargoes. The grain trade is handled separately under the International Grain Code.