Russian initiatives inform new IMO solid bulk cargo requirements
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has approved Russia's proposals for the transportation of apatite concentrate, which were developed under Russian initiatives with the participation of Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS).
During the 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee, IMO approved amendments to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC Code), including new requirements for the transportation of apatite concentrate, following proposals made by the Russian Federation.
A new individual schedule for “apatite concentrate” has been added to the Code, featuring a standard set of characteristics and requirements related to storage, loading, carriage, unloading, specific considerations regarding the cargo’s properties and weather conditions during handling, as well as ventilation of cargo spaces.
The new requirements, designed to simplify documentation procedures for this type of bulk cargo, were developed in 2024 with the active involvement of Russian Maritime Register of Shipping. Our experts helped prepare the initial draft and participated in its discussions during specialized IMO sessions and working meetings.
The amendments to the IMSBC Code are expected to enter into force on 1 January 2027 in accordance with the SOLAS Convention procedures.
Additional information:
Founded in 1913, Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) is a world-renowned classification society that operates within all spheres of the maritime industry with the goal of improving the operational and environmental safety of marine transportation. RS reviews technical documentation, surveys ships and offshore facilities under construction and in service, certifies vessels and companies for compliance with international conventions, recognizes and certifies industrial products and manufacturers, certifies quality management systems for compliance with international and national standards.
Today, RS is actively implementing the concept "More than class" by expanding its scope of services in the field of engineering and consulting, the development of technical documentation for vessels in service, marine warranty surveys and certification. In addition, RS surveys all container types, including tank containers and offshore containers, confirms compliance of packaging for dangerous goods, as well as renders services on the declaration and certification of dangerous goods and bulk cargoes.