CG Final Rule to Allow IMSBC Codes, List More Solid Bulk Hazmats
The Coast Guard has issued a final rule, effective January 1, 2011, to amend its regulations in 46 CFR 97 and 148 to allow use of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code as an equivalent form of compliance for all domestic and foreign vessels operating in U.S. navigable waters, and to expand the list of solid hazardous materials authorized for bulk transportation by vessel.
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Final Rule to Harmonize Regs with International Requirements, Etc.
CG initiated this rulemaking to address requirements in the International Maritime Organization International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, (SOLAS), including requirements coming into effect on January 1, 2011 that require all vessels subject to SOLAS and carrying bulk solid cargoes other than grain to comply with the IMSBC Code.
IMSCB Code May be Used for Int'l Shipments Originating/Concluding in U.S.
CG's final rule will amend 46 CFR Part 148 (Carriage of Bulk Solid Materials that Require Special Handling) to allow the use of the IMSBC Code as an equivalent form of compliance for international shipments originating or concluding in the U.S., subject to certain conditions and limitations.
30 Solid Cargoes Added to List of Authorized Bulk Transports
The final rule also expands the list of solid hazardous materials authorized for bulk transportation by vessel in 46 CFR Part 97 (Bulk Solid Cargoes) to include 30 additional solid cargoes, and special handling procedures based on the IMSBC Code and existing special permits. This change reduces the need for the current special permits required for the carriage of certain solid hazardous materials in bulk.
(See ITT's Online Archives or 06/14/10 news, 10061442, for BP summary of the proposed rule.)
CG contact -- Richard Bornhorst (202) 372-1426
(D/N USCG-2009-0091, FR Pub 10/19/10)