The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (Intercargo) previously made a submission to MSC 84 concerning increasing pressure to load bulk carriers at high rates, bringing to the attention of the Committee the results of the Intercargo survey on loading rates. The paper was referred to the Sub-committee on Dangerous Goods, Solid Cargoes and Containers (DSC) for consideration and the Sub-committee recommended that further guidance to supplement the Code of Practice for the Safe Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers (BLU Code) should be developed, and drafted the Circular for approval by the parent (MSC) Committee.
Speaking of the Circular, Ian Harrison, Intercargo Technical Manager said 'this approval brings into focus the large amount of work carried out by Intercargo following our survey on loading rates carried out in 2007. Our survey information was escalated and debated through various IMO meetings culminating in the creation of the Circular which addresses industry concerns on the speed of loading bulk carriers including both structural and manoeuvrability issues'. He continued, 'the Circular represents best practice and has been brought in support of all those with responsibility for the safe loading of ships. It also supports the ships' master who ultimately takes responsibility for the safety of the ship and its crew, and has the right to stop the loading of the ship at any time'.
In addition, the Committee further noted that an agreed loading/unloading plan between the terminal representative and master is a mandatory requirement under SOLAS regulation VI/7.3
