Key Amendments To The International Grain Code
The International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk (Grain Code), mandatory under SOLAS Chapter VI, is undergoing a significant update to enhance safety and operational flexibility in the maritime transport of bulk grain.
Adopted by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108) in May 2024 via Resolution MSC.552(108), these amendments are set to enter into force on January 1, 2026.
They address a specific, previously undefined, partly filled cargo condition, bringing the regulatory framework in line with loading operations on modern bulk carriers.
The new requirements apply to both new and existing ships that intend to carry grain under this newly defined loading condition starting from that date.
The New Fourth Loading Condition
The core of the amendments is the introduction of a fourth permissible loading condition to the Grain Code.
Previously, the Code recognised three main conditions:
- Filled compartment, trimmed
- Filled compartment, untrimmed
- Partly filled compartment
The new amendment formally introduces and defines:
A specially suitable compartment, partly filled in the way of the hatch opening, with ends untrimmed.
This new condition is specifically designed for a cargo hold that:
- Is defined as a “specially suitable compartment” (which may be exempted from trimming requirements under specific conditions).
- is not filled to the maximum extent possible.
- Is filled to a level equal to or above the bottom edge of the hatch end beams.
- Has untrimmed ends outside the periphery of the hatch opening, where the grain can rest at its natural angle of repose (typically 30 degrees is assumed for stability calculations).
- Requires only the free grain surface in the way of the hatch opening to be level (trimmed).
This provision provides increased flexibility for ship operators, particularly when the vessel cannot be loaded to full capacity (due to draft restrictions, port limits, or cargo volume) but the ends of the hold would otherwise require trimming under the previous “partly filled” condition.
Stability Calculation Updates in Part B
To ensure the new loading condition does not compromise vessel safety, Part B of the Grain Code, which governs the calculation of assumed heeling moments and general assumptions, has been updated.
Revised Heeling Moment Assumptions
The amendments mandate new calculation assumptions for the volumetric heeling moment in this new loading condition.
- Assumed Slope: For the untrimmed ends, the grain surface is assumed to slope in all directions away from the filling area at an angle of 30 degrees from the horizontal. This assumption is crucial for accurately calculating the potential heeling moment caused by grain shifting during the voyage.
- Vertical Shift Allowance: For both standard “partly filled compartments” and the new condition, the adverse effect of the vertical shift of grain surfaces must be taken into account by multiplying the calculated transverse heeling moment by a factor of 1.12.
- New Curves: Shipowners must now include additional curves for the grain shift moment and volume in the vessel’s approved Grain Loading Manual to cover this new “specially suitable compartment, partly filled…” scenario
Action Required for Existing Vessels
To utilise the new, flexible loading condition, shipowners and operators of existing vessels must:
- Update the Grain Loading Manual: The vessel’s approved Grain Loading Manual must be revised or have an Addendum prepared to incorporate the new loading condition and its associated heeling moment/volume curves (both graphical and tabular).
- RO/Flag Administration Approval: The updated manual or addendum must be submitted for approval by the vessel’s Flag Administration or a Recognised Organisation (RO).
- Loading Computer Update: Any on-board loading computer used for stability calculations must be updated and re-approved to incorporate the new stability data and the revised loading pattern option.
Key Benefits
These amendments represent a pragmatic step by the IMO to align safety standards with real-world operations in the bulk shipping sector.
- Safety Assurance: By providing explicit calculation methods for the previously ambiguous “partly filled and untrimmed ends” condition, the amendments formally address potential safety risks from excessive grain shift and stability loss.
- Trade Efficiency: The new condition significantly improves operational flexibility, reducing the need for time-consuming and costly trimming operations in specially suitable holds when the full capacity is not required.
- Regulatory Compliance: The updates solidify the statutory framework, providing clarity to Masters, ship planners, and surveyors regarding compliance for the safe carriage of bulk grain cargo.
You might also like to read-
- Top 5 Biggest Bulk Carriers In the World
- Understanding Design Of Bulk Carriers
- Different Types of Bulk Carriers
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Posts
About Author
Zahra is an SEO-Strategist & a Technical Writer with over 5 years of experience crafting top-tier content for the shipping world. From news, articles, ebooks, blogs and marketing pieces to industry white papers, she has written it all and now brings that experience to her role as Senior Editor. She makes complex maritime stories clear, sharp, and engaging.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Latest Maritime Law Articles
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT