Web alerts: amendments proposed for coal cargoes under IMSBC Code

The club understands that Australia has made proposals for the IMSBC Code to be amended in relation to coal cargoes.  The proposals include an amended schedule for coal under Appendix 2 of the IMSBC Code. This includes a new test to determine a TML for coal by means of a screening criteria to exclude certain coal cargoes from the need to test them for a TML based on particle size distribution. The proposals follow Australian studies that there is a greater potential for liquefaction of coal cargoes than previously considered.
 
The proposals include the use of a modified Proctor-Fagerberg Test considered suitable for coal up to 50mm in size, whereby only coal cargoes with a particle size distribution of:

• less than or equal to 10% by weight of particles passing 1 mm, or
• less than or equal to 45% by weight of particles passing 10 mm

may be declared as Group B.

The proposed change to the existing schedule also includes the removal of the current reference in the hazard section that coal 'can liquefy if predominantly fine 75% less than 5mm'.
 
Members are advised to take suitable precautions when carrying coal cargoes and to be aware of the potential for liquefaction.  The club will continue to monitor developments and provide members with further updates.​