Operational guide · Operational procedure

BLU Code: Safety in the Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers

SOLAS VI/7 contains the Convention requirements for bulk-carrier loading and unloading; the BLU Code is linked operational guidance and the IMSBC Code governs solid bulk cargo under a distinct framework.

BLU Codebulk carrierIMSBC Codeship-shore interface

Operational Explanation

The correct architecture starts with SOLAS VI/7. The BLU Code, adopted by A.862(20), is a recommendatory Code of Practice providing guidance to the Master, terminal operator and other parties. Specific measures become binding when they derive from SOLAS VI/7, national/regional law or applicable procedures.

Regulatory Reference

SOLAS VI/7; IMO — BLU Code and Manual (A.862(20), MSC.238(82), MSC.304(87)). Distinguish Convention requirements and national/regional legislation from BLU guidance. MCA MGN 699, Annex B also explains UK implementation, which must not be generalized to other jurisdictions.

IMSBC Amendment 08-25 — MSC.575(110): voluntary application by Contracting Governments from 1 January 2026; scheduled entry into force on 1 January 2027. Verify the regime accepted by the relevant authorities for the voyage. Bulk grain is subject to the International Grain Code, not the IMSBC Code.

Scope of Application

Bulk carriers and terminals loading or unloading solid bulk cargo, with any additional duties from regional/national law, SMS and terminal procedures. Always distinguish mandatory basis from guidance.

Procedure / How to Complete It

Exchange ship/terminal and cargo information; distinguish this exchange from the plan and ship/shore safety checklist.
Before starting, agree and sign the loading/unloading plan: hold quantities and sequences, rates, ballast stages, structural and stability limits including intermediate stages.
Complete the safety checklist and agree communications and stopping arrangements; lodge the plan and revisions with the appropriate authority under SOLAS VI/7.3 and local provisions.
Monitor quantities, sequence, ballast and stresses. Prepare an agreed, signed revision for changes; stop operations if safety is compromised.
Record damage and deviations, completion checks and required documents; retain accessible copies on board and at the terminal.

Practical Example

During ore loading the terminal proposes bringing one hold forward. The officer informs the Master; intermediate stresses and ballast are checked and a revised plan agreed before changing the sequence. The initial information exchange does not authorize an unassessed verbal change.

What Typically Goes Wrong

An acceptable final condition can hide excessive intermediate stresses. Cargo sequencing and ballast handling must remain coordinated; signed plans and checklists do not replace monitoring during operations.

Common Mistakes Mistake Library

Using the information exchange instead of the agreed plan and checklist.
Changing sequence without reassessing stresses, ballast and limits.
Assuming permission to apply 08-25 allows a unilateral crew decision.

What the PSCO Checks

May check the agreed plan and revisions, cargo information, relevant checklists and records, ship limits and consistency with actual operations. Distinguish ship inspection from authority responsibilities for the terminal; do not assume BLU documents are excluded from inspection.

Operational Tips

Make the current plan and stopping communications available to officers and terminal staff.
Check intermediate stages and ballast/cargo coordination.
Confirm the applicable IMSBC regime during transition with the Company and authorities.

Preparation checklist

Educational checklist. This summary supports learning and preparation only. It does not replace the vessel’s approved procedures, manuals, statutory documents, company SMS, or applicable official requirements. Completing it demonstrates neither compliance nor readiness for an inspection: it shows that a list has been read, not that the ship is in order. Always verify the current documents carried on board.

Ship/terminal and cargo information exchanged
Plan and revisions agreed, signed and lodged as required
Checklist, communications and stopping arrangements agreed
Sequences, ballast and intermediate limits monitored
Applicable IMSBC regime checked with relevant authorities

FAQ

Is the BLU Code by itself a standalone mandatory source?

It is a recommendatory Code of Practice providing guidance linked to SOLAS VI/7; obligation comes from the Convention, applicable law or a binding procedure.

What is the basis of the loading/unloading plan?

SOLAS VI/7, applied with BLU guidance and other relevant requirements.

Do IMSBC and BLU do the same thing?

No. IMSBC governs classification and carriage of solid bulk cargo; BLU concerns the ship/terminal loading and unloading process.