1 This Code of Practice for the Safe Loading and
Unloading of Bulk Carriers has been developed by the International
Maritime Organization to minimize the losses of bulk carriers.
2 The purpose of the Code is to assist persons
responsible for the safe loading or unloading of bulk carriers to
carry out their functions and to promote the safety of bulk carriers.
3 The Code primarily covers the safety of ships
loading and unloading solid bulk cargoes and reflects current issues,
best practices and legislative requirements. Broader safety and pollution
issues such as those covered by the SOLAS, MARPOL and Load Line Conventions are not specifically
included in the Code.
4 The recommendations in this Code provide guidance
to shipowners, masters, shippers, operators of bulk carriers, charterers
and terminal operators for the safe handling, loading, and unloading
of solid bulk cargoes. The recommendations are subject to terminal
and port requirements, or national regulations. Persons responsible
for the loading or unloading of bulk carriers should also be aware
of such regulations and requirements.
5 Masters and terminal loading and unloading solid
bulk cargoes possessing chemical hazards should also refer to SOLAS
chapters II-2 and VII and MSC/Circ.675 - Recommendations on
the Safe Transport of Dangerous Cargoes and Related Activities in
Port Areas.
6 The requirements of individual terminals and
port authorities should be published in terminal and port information
books. The type of information usually given in these books is listed
in appendix 1. The books should be given
to the masters of ships where possible before or on arrival at a port
or terminal.
7 It is recommended that a copy of this Code be
made available to every ship, charterer and bulk loading or unloading
terminal so that advice on operational procedures is readily available
and respective responsibilities identified.
8 In the event of a conflict between this Code
and the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk
(International Grain Code), the provisions
of the International Grain Code should prevail.