Saudi Arabia adopts bulk cargo regulations to enhance maritime safety
The Public Transport Authority has issued the implementing regulations for the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargo Code (IMSBC), a strategic step aimed at regulating bulk cargo and achieving the highest standards of safety and environmental protection in the territorial waters of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These regulations establish a precise regulatory framework governing the relationship between shippers and captains, ensuring the safety of lives and property at sea.
International standards and maritime safety
This regulation is based on a broad international framework aimed at standardizing maritime safety procedures. The International Maritime Safety Code (IMSBC) is a globally binding standard under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Historically, solid bulk cargo has posed a significant challenge to the maritime transport industry due to its associated chemical and physical hazards, such as the potential for liquefaction, which can lead to loss of stability and sinking. Therefore, the Kingdom's adherence to these standards is crucial to ensuring its maritime sector aligns with international requirements, thereby enhancing the reliability of the Saudi maritime fleet and national ports.
Broad powers for the captain and responsibility for the shipper
Under the new regulations, the authority mandates strict requirements for shippers and captains, effective immediately upon official publication. These requirements apply to all Saudi and foreign vessels sailing in Saudi waters and carrying this type of cargo. The regulations grant the ship's captain absolute authority to refuse to load any cargo that poses a threat to life or violates standards, as the captain is ultimately responsible for the safety of the voyage. The captain is also obligated to conduct visual and laboratory inspections to ensure the cargo is free of hazardous moisture before granting permission to load.
Conversely, the shipper bears full legal responsibility for providing accurate information to the captain by submitting a detailed cargo declaration specifying the classification and weights. A recent laboratory certificate, no more than seven days old, is also required, confirming that the moisture content of the liquefiable goods does not exceed the safe transport limit.
Enhancing the Kingdom's logistical standing
The impact of this regulation extends beyond the purely organizational aspect, encompassing significant economic and strategic dimensions. By implementing the highest safety standards in the transport of bulk cargo, the Kingdom strengthens its position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. Strict adherence to international codes enhances the efficiency of Saudi ports and attracts global shipping lines seeking a safe and organized operating environment, positively impacting international trade and supply chains.
Preventive measures and strict procedures
To ensure the stability of the ship's hull, regulations mandate precise load distribution to prevent excessive stress, particularly when loading high-density cargo. Ships are also required to level the cargo deck at specific stability angles to minimize the risk of displacement. Corrosive materials or materials that release toxic gases are subject to stringent protective measures to safeguard crew members, the marine environment, and ventilation systems.
The regulations prohibit entry into enclosed storage areas before ensuring that oxygen levels are within safe limits and that gas detectors and personal protective equipment are in place. Handling chemically incompatible goods simultaneously is strictly forbidden; they must be kept separate in designated storage areas to prevent accidents. Violators will be subject to strict penalties according to an approved schedule, with the possibility of exceptional exemptions of up to five years if safe alternatives are available.
