What is the IMSBC Code?

The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code sets out the mandatory standards for the safe carriage of solid bulk cargoes. This code is essential for preventing accidents at sea related to the transport of solid bulk materials. The latest amendments, coming into force on January 1, 2025, include updated provisions to enhance the safety of ships and crews. These amendments address issues such as:

• Cargo classification,
• Documentation
• Procedures for safe handling.

The upcoming amendments to the IMSBC Code, effective from January 1, 2025, are likely to introduce new:

• cargo entries
• and update existing ones

These amendments, reflect advances in technology and changes in industry practices. In addition these changes ensure that the Code remains relevant and continues to provide guidance on the safe transport of solid bulk cargoes. While I don’t have the specifics of the new cargo types being added or updated, these amendments typically involve:

• Clarifications on the properties of materials,
• Precautions for carriage, 
• Handling procedures.

In particular the 2025 amendments introduce two new cargoes – one updated and one new cargo.

There updated requirement is for Direct Reduced Iron which has a history of self ignition:

Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) is a type of iron produced from iron ore through a process called direct reduction. In this method, the iron ore is reduced in its solid state, using a reducing gas or elemental carbon, rather than being melted in a blast furnace. The result is a porous, sponge-like form of iron with a high iron content.

Uses of DRI

DRI is used as a raw material in steelmaking, particularly in electric arc furnaces, because of its purity and uniform composition. It’s often favoured for its lower impurities compared to scrap steel.

Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) has several hazardous properties that require careful handling and storage:

1. Reactivity with Water: DRI can react with moisture to produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and can create an explosive atmosphere if not properly vented.
2. Oxidation: When exposed to air, DRI can oxidise, generating heat. In large quantities, this can lead to self-heating and, potentially, spontaneous combustion.
3. Pyrophoricity: Fine particles of DRI can be pyrophoric, meaning they may ignite spontaneously when exposed to air.
4. Dust Explosion: DRI fines (small particles) can form an explosive dust cloud if dispersed in the air under certain conditions.

Due to these hazards, DRI must be handled and transported with precautions, such as:

• Maintaining a dry environment within the hold,
• Monitoring for hydrogen gas, 
• Avoiding situations that could lead to self-heating or dust formation.

IMSBC Code Amendments – Part 2

The second cargo focused upon is a completely new cargo listed in the IMSBC Code know as Electric Arc Furnace Dust.

What is Electric arc furnace dust?

Electric Arc Furnace Dust (EAF dust) is a byproduct generated during the steelmaking process in electric arc furnaces. When steel scrap is melted in the furnace, dust and fumes are produced, which are then captured by the furnace’s filtration system. This dust contains various metals and oxides, including:

• iron,
• zinc,
• lead, 
• cadmium,

This makes it a hazardous waste. However, EAF dust can also be processed to recover valuable metals, especially zinc, making it an important material for recycling in the steel industry. It’s this recycling use that has generated increased cargoes of this type and thus forced the introduction into the code.

Electric arc furnace dust (EAF dust) poses several dangers due to its composition. It contains hazardous metals like lead, cadmium, and chromium, as well as other toxic substances. The primary dangers include:

1. Toxicity: The heavy metals in EAF dust can be toxic if inhaled or ingested, leading to serious health issues such as neurological damage, kidney damage, and respiratory problems.
2. Environmental impact: If not properly managed, EAF dust can contaminate soil and water, posing risks to ecosystems and human health.
3. Reactivity: Certain components in EAF dust can be reactive, potentially leading to fire or explosion hazards under certain conditions.

Proper handling, storage, and disposal of EAF dust are crucial to minimise these risks and protect both human health and the environment.

Because both these cargoes contain chemical reactivity properties,this makes them a Dangerous Cargo within the IMDG Code and SOLAS Chapter VII. Fundamentally it means that in order to carry these cargoes, even in bulk, they must be listed on a valid Dangerous Goods Document of Compliance issued in compliance with SOLAS Chapter II.

When is a DGDOC Issued?

The DGDOC will only be issued after survey to verify the additional equipment that must be carried including the provision of fixed FFE in the holds. Without a DGDOC, even in compliance with requirements of the IMSBC Code, these cargoes cannot be carried.