4.5 Interval between sampling/testing and loading for TML and moisture content determination
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - International Codes - IMSBC Code – International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code – Resolution MSC.268(85) - Section 4 – Assessment of acceptability of consignments for safe shipment - 4.5 Interval between sampling/testing and loading for TML and moisture content determination

4.5 Interval between sampling/testing and loading for TML and moisture content determination

  4.5.1 The shipper shall be responsible for ensuring that a test to determine the TML of a solid bulk cargo is conducted within six months to the date of loading the cargo. Notwithstanding this provision, where the composition or characteristics of the cargo are variable for any reason, the shipper shall be responsible for ensuring that a test to determine the TML is conducted again after it is reasonably assumed that such variation has taken place.

  4.5.2 The shipper shall be responsible for ensuring that sampling and testing for moisture content is conducted as near as practicable to the date of commencement of loading. The interval between sampling/testing and the date of commencement of loading shall never be more than seven days. If the cargo has been exposed to significant rain or snow between the time of testing and the date of completion of loading, the shipper shall be responsible for ensuring that the moisture content of the cargo is still less than its TML, and evidence of this is provided to the master as soon as practicable.

  4.5.3 Samples of frozen cargo shall be tested for the TML or the moisture content after the free moisture has completely thawed.


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