The safety implications of loading bulk cargoes that may be subject to liquefaction but are, nevertheless, not categorised as such under the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code 2009, are known to the maritime industry. Carriage of iron ore fines and nickel ore has been a matter of particular concern. In many cases, and sometimes under extreme pressure or intimidation, shipowners and their representatives have been denied the opportunity to sample cargoes for moisture content prior to loading.
Officer of the Watch 