Canada introduced a simplified Grain Form for Type II vessels

Transport Canada has released a new simplified Grain Form (82-0579B) specifically for Type II vessels loading grain in bulk at Canadian ports for export.

This form simplifies the process of calculating grain stability for vessels that already meet the requirements set out in the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk (International Grain Code), as incorporated into Canadian regulations under the Cargo, Fumigation and Tackle Regulations (CFTR). The aim is to streamline the documentation process while maintaining compliance with safety standards for grain transportation.

Purpose of the New Grain Form

The simplified Grain Form (82-0579B) is to be used exclusively by Type II vessels, which are equipped with a grain stability booklet approved according to the International Grain Code. This booklet includes essential data such as:

Volumes of grain in different compartments
Vertical centers of these volumes
Assumed volumetric heeling moments (forces causing the ship to tilt) for each compartment, whether fully or partially filled
Maximum permissible heeling moments, factoring in the vessel's displacement and center of gravity

These details are vital for ensuring that the grain's movement during transport does not compromise the ship's stability, a critical safety issue given that grain cargo can shift during a voyage, potentially causing the vessel to capsize if improperly managed.

Harmonization and Efficiency

The new form is aligned with the grain form used by the National Cargo Bureau of the United States, facilitating harmonization of procedures for vessels operating between Canada and the U.S. This harmonization is part of Transport Canada's broader efforts to modernize marine operations and reduce the workload for ship Masters and crew. The form simplifies grain stability calculations for ships that already meet the grain stability standards, making it easier for both vessel operators and Transport Canada inspectors to ensure compliance.

Background and Context

Canada regulates the loading and transport of bulk cargoes, including grain, under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and the Cargo, Fumigation and Tackle Regulations (CFTR). Since grain is one of Canada's most significant exports, with a large volume being shipped out of the country regularly, ensuring safe loading, stowing, and leveling of grain is a critical aspect of maritime safety.

The Grain Form (82-0579A) was established in Canada long before the adoption of the International Grain Code. It was intended to ensure that all vessels provided appropriate stability calculations, regardless of their design or onboard equipment. However, with the International Grain Code's requirement for vessels built after January 1, 1994, to have grain stability data on board, the long form became less necessary for most modern vessels. Still, the detailed form remains in use for vessels that require special stability checks, such as those traveling in sheltered waters with reduced stability criteria.

Scope of the Bulletin

This bulletin is directed primarily at Masters of vessels that come to Canadian ports to load grain in bulk for export. It reminds these Masters that they must use the appropriate Grain Form to comply with Transport Canada regulations. The simplified form (82-0579B) is for Type II vessels, while the more detailed version (82-0579A) is still available for other vessels that either lack a grain stability booklet or face specific stability challenges, such as reduced stability requirements in sheltered waters.

Key Points to Know

Mandatory Use: The use of the Grain Form is mandatory for vessels loading grain in Canada to meet safety requirements. Masters must ensure that their vessel complies with the stability criteria outlined in the International Grain Code and CFTR section 123.
Inspection Requirement: Section 128 of the CFTR mandates that vessels loading grain in bulk be inspected to verify compliance with stability regulations.
Restricted Use of Loading Computers: The bulletin specifies that data from Loading Computers cannot be used for grain stability calculations, reinforcing the need to rely on the approved Grain Forms for these assessments.
Availability of the Grain Form: Inspectors will provide the Grain Form to vessels or agents as required or upon request. It is essential for ship operators to use the correct version of the form based on their vessel type and grain stability setup.

Simplifying Safety Procedures

This initiative to introduce a simplified grain stability form is part of Transport Canada’s modernization efforts across the marine sector. By reducing the complexity of grain stability calculations for vessels with approved stability booklets, the new form aims to ease the burden on ship Masters and crew, allowing them to prepare more efficiently for inspections. This update also helps inspectors verify that vessels are in compliance with safety regulations, ensuring that grain cargo is transported safely and efficiently without risking vessel stability.