When bulk cargoes shift, liquefy, catch fire or explode as a consequence of poor loading procedures, the consequences can be massive. Ships may capsize, lose stability or sustain severe structural damage.

Such happenings enhance the risks----and the occurrence----of death, injury, insurance claims, operational delay and considerable expense.

This has prompted the UK P&I Club, Lloyd's Register and Intercargo to produce a pocket guide and checklist for ships' officers and agents who arrange cargoes for loading.

Carrying solid bulk cargoes safely: Guidance for crews on the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code outlines the precautions to be taken before accepting solid bulk cargoes for shipment; sets out procedures for safe loading and carriage; and details the primary hazards associated with different types of cargoes. A quick reference checklist and flowchart summarise the steps to be followed.

The guide reflects the compliance requirements of the IMSBC Code, which became mandatory on January 1st 2011 under the SOLAS Convention. It addresses the Code's three key groups: A (which may liquefy), B (chemical hazards) and C (all others). Appendices cover IMO regulations and guidance relating to the transport of solid bulk cargoes and provide an overview of the IMSBC Code.

It comes in a laminated flipover format for on-the-spot use and for enhancing awareness among operators, shippers and charterers.

Lloyd's Register and the UK P&I Club have produced a number of checklists to aid safety and regulation compliance. Subjects have included Port State Control detention, marine fire safety and the Maritime Labour Convention.

For further information, the Carrying solid bulk cargoes safely guide is available via the following links:

and

http://www.ukpandi.com/loss-prevention/checklists/

Notes for Editors

Lloyd’s Register

Lloyd's Register provides independent assurance to companies operating high-risk, capital-intensive assets in the energy and transportation sectors. We enhance the safety of life, property and the environment by helping our clients to ensure the quality construction and operation of critical infrastructure.

For media enquiries contact:

Nicholas Brown

Marine Communications Manager

Lloyd's Register

T +44 23 8024 9638

M + 44 77 5987 8501

E

nick.brown@lr.org

Intercargo

Intercargo represents over 160 bulk carrier owners/operators (vessels engaged in the transport of dry bulk commodities such as coal, grain and iron ore) and associates. With Non-Governmental Organisation status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Intercargo's objective is the creation of a "safe, efficient and environmentally friendly" dry cargo sector. Intercargo, founded in 1980, works within the Round Table of international maritime associations comprising BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, Intercargo and Intertanko.

The United Kingdom Mutual Steam Ship Assurance Association (Bermuda) Limited is generally known as the UK P&I Club. As a mutual association, the UK Club has no outside shareholders and no financial links with other organisations. Since its establishment in 1869, the Club has existed solely for the benefit of its members. Its structure as a mutual insurance association enables it to respond to the changing needs of its assureds and allows it to provide superior service, attention and coverage.

The UK P&I Club is directed by the members. Overall control lies with the directors, elected by the members from amongst themselves. The directors normally meet four times a year to formulate policy on calls, the scope of cover, finance, underwriting and claims matters, reinsurance and issues affecting the P&I world. They resolve specific claims which may not fall clearly within the cover.

Thomas Miller, the Club's managers, is organised to respond promptly to requests for assistance and to provide informed advice and help with members' claims. Individual support goes far beyond that normally provided by a commercial insurer.

The Thomas Miller Group manages a number of world-leading mutual insurance organisations or "clubs," providing insurance for shipping, transport and professional indemnity risks. The firm incorporated in 1999 and is owned and controlled by its 550 employees worldwide.

Issued by:

Martin Rowland

Dunelm Public Relations

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7345 5232

Email:

Website:

On behalf of:

Nick Whitear

Thomas Miller P&I Ltd

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7283 4646

Email:

Website: