IS Code 2008

International Code on Intact Stability

Res. MSC.267(85) adopted 2008

 IS Code 2008
Preamble page 1/83

International Code on Intact Stabilitry, 2008 (2008 IS Code)

Preamble

1 This Code has been assembled to provide, in a single document, mandatory requirements in the
introduction and in part A and recommended provisions in part B relating to intact stability, based primarily on
existing IMO instruments. Where recommendations in this Code appear to differ from other IMO Codes, the
other Codes should be taken as the prevailing instrument. For the sake of completeness and for the
convenience of the user, this Code also contains relevant provisions from mandatory IMO instruments.

2 Criteria included in the Code are based on the best .state-of-the-art. concepts, available at the time
they were developed, taking into account sound design and engineering principles and experience gained
from operating ships. Furthermore, design technology for modern ships is rapidly evolving and the Code
should not remain static but should be re-evaluated and revised, as necessary. To this end, the Organization
will periodically review the Code taking into consideration both experience and further development.

3 A number of influences such as the dead ship condition, wind on ships with large windage area, rolling
characteristics, severe seas, etc., were taken into account based on the state-of-the-art technology and
knowledge at the time of the development of the Code.

4 It was recognized that in view of a wide variety of types, sizes of ships and their operating and
environmental conditions, problems of safety against accidents related to stability have generally not yet been
solved. In particular, the safety of a ship in a seaway involves complex hydrodynamic phenomena which up to
now have not been fully investigated and understood. Motion of ships in a seaway should be treated as a
dynamical system and relationships between ship and environmental conditions like wave and wind
excitations are recognized as extremely important elements. Based on hydrodynamic aspects and stability
analysis of a ship in a seaway, stability criteria development poses complex problems that require further
research.
 IS Code 2008
Introduction page 2/83

Introduction

1 Purpose

1.1 The purpose of the Code is to present mandatory and recommendatory stability criteria and other
measures for ensuring the safe operation of ships, to minimize the risk to such ships, to the personnel on
board and to the environment. This introduction and part A of the Code address the mandatory criteria and
part B contains recommendations and additional guidelines.

1.2 This Code contains intact stability criteria for the following types of ships and other marine vehicles of
24 m in length and above, unless otherwise stated:

.1 cargo ships;

.2 cargo ships carrying timber deck cargoes;

.3 passenger ships;

.4 fishing vessels;

.5 special purpose ships;

.6 offshore supply vessels;

.7 mobile offshore drilling units;

.8 pontoons; and

.9 cargo ships carrying containers on deck and containerships.

1.3 Administrations may impose additional requirements regarding the design aspects of hips of novel
design or ships not otherwise covered by the Code.

2 Definitions

For the purpose of this Code the definitions given hereunder shall apply. For terms used, but not defined in
this Code, the definitions as given in the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended, shall apply.

2.1 Administration means the Government of the State whose flag the ship is entitled to fly.

2.2 Passenger ship is a ship which carries more than twelve passengers as defined in regulation I/2 of the
1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended.

2.3 Cargo ship is any ship which is not a passenger ship, a ship of war and troopship, a ship which is not
propelled by mechanical means, a wooden ship of primitive build, a fishing vessel or a mobile offshore drilling
unit.

2.4 Oil tanker means a ship constructed or adapted primarily to carry oil in bulk in its cargo spaces and
includes combination carriers and any chemical tanker as defined in Annex II of the MARPOL Convention
when it is carrying a cargo or part cargo of oil in bulk.

2.4.1 Combination carrier means a ship designed to carry either oil or solid cargoes in bulk.
 IS Code 2008
Introduction page 3/83

2.4.2 Crude oil tanker means an oil tanker engaged in the trade of carrying crude oil.

2.4.3 Product carrier means an oil tanker engaged in the trade of carrying oil other than crude oil.

2.5 Fishing vessel is a vessel used for catching fish, whales, seals, walrus or other living resources of the
sea.

2.6 Special purpose ship has the same definition as in the Code of Safety for Special Purpose Ships, 2008
(resolution MSC.266(84)).

2.7 Offshore supply vessel means a vessel which is engaged primarily in the transport of stores, materials
and equipment to offshore installations and designed with accommodation and bridge erections in the forward
part of the vessel and an exposed cargo deck in the after part for the handling of cargo at sea.

2.8 Mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU or unit) is a ship capable of engaging in drilling operations for the
exploration or exploitation of resources beneath the sea-bed such as liquid or gaseous hydrocarbons, sulphur
or salt.

2.8.1 Column-stabilized unit is a unit with the main deck connected to the underwater hull or footings by
columns or caissons.

2.8.2 Surface unit is a unit with a ship- or barge-type displacement hull of single or multiple hull construction
intended for operation in the floating condition.

2.8.3 Self-elevating unit is a unit with moveable legs capable of raising its hull above the surface of the sea.

2.8.4 Coastal State means the Government of the State exercising administrative control over the drilling
operations of the unit.

2.8.5 Mode of operation means a condition or manner in which a unit may operate or function while on
location or in transit. The modes of operation of a unit include the following:

.1 operating conditions means conditions wherein a unit is on location for the purpose of
conducting drilling operations, and combined environmental and operational loadings are within the
appropriate design limits established for such operations. The unit may be either afloat or supported
on the sea-bed, as applicable;

.2 severe storm conditions means conditions wherein a unit may be subjected to the most severe
environmental loadings for which the unit is designed. Drilling operations are assumed to have been
discontinued due to the severity of the environmental loadings, the unit may be either afloat or
supported on the sea-bed, as applicable; and

.3 transit conditions means conditions wherein a unit is moving from one geographical location to
another.
equal to or exceeding:

2.9 High-speed craft (HSC) * is a craft capable of a maximum speed, in metres per second (m/s), equal to

*
The Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft, 2000 (2000 HSC Code) has been developed following a thorough revision of
the Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft, 1994 (1994 HSC Code) which was derived from the previous Code of Safety
for Dynamically Supported Craft (DSC Code) adopted by IMO in 1977, recognizing that safety levels can be significantly
 IS Code 2008
Introduction page 4/83

or exceeding:

3.7 * ∇0.1667

where: ∇ = displacement corresponding to the design waterline (m³).

2.10 Containership means a ship which is used primarily for the transport of marine containers.

2.11 Freeboard is the distance between the assigned load line and freeboard deck * .

2.12 Length of ship. The length should be taken as 96% of the total length on a waterline at 85% of the
least moulded depth measured from the top of the keel, or as the length from the fore side of the stem to the
axis of the rudder stock on the waterline, if that be greater. In ships designed with a rake of keel the waterline
on which this length is measured should be parallel to the designed waterline.

2.13 Moulded breadth is the maximum breadth of the ship measured amidships to the moulded line of the
frame in a ship with a metal shell and to the outer surface of the hull in a ship with a shell of any other
material.

2.14 Moulded depth is the vertical distance measured from the top of the keel to the top of the freeboard
deck beam at side. In wood and composite ships, the distance is measured from the lower edge of the keel
rabbet. Where the form at the lower part of the midship section is of a hollow character, or where thick
garboards are fitted, the distance is measured from the point where the line of the flat of the bottom continued
inwards cuts the side of the keel. In ships having rounded gunwales, the moulded depth should be measured
to the point of intersection of the moulded lines of the deck and side shell plating, the lines extending as
though the gunwale were of angular design. Where the freeboard deck is stepped and the raised part of the
deck extends over the point at which the moulded depth is to be determined, the moulded depth should be
measured to a line of reference extending from the lower part of the deck along a line parallel with the raised
part.

2.15 Near-coastal voyage means a voyage in the vicinity of the coast of a State as defined by the
Administration of that State.

2.16 Pontoon is considered to be normally:

.1 non self-propelled;

.2 unmanned;

.3 carrying only deck cargo;

.4 having a block coefficient of 0.9 or greater;

.5 having a breadth/depth ratio of greater than 3; and

enhanced by the infrastructure associated with regular service on a particular route, whereas the conventional ship
safety philosophy relies on the ship being self-sustaining with all necessary emergency equipment being carried on
board.
*
For the purposes of application of chapters I and II of Annex I of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or
the Protocol of 1988 as amended, as applicable to open-top containerships, .freeboard deck. is the freeboard deck
according to the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 as amended, as applicable as if
hatch covers are fitted on top of the hatch cargo coamings.
 IS Code 2008
Introduction page 5/83

.6 having no hatchways in the deck except small manholes closed with gasketed covers.

2.17 Timber means sawn wood or lumber, cants, logs, poles, pulpwood and all other types of timber in
loose or packaged forms. The term does not include wood pulp or similar cargo.

2.18 Timber deck cargo means a cargo of timber carried on an uncovered part of a freeboard or
superstructure deck. The term does not include wood pulp or similar cargo. *

2.19 Timber load line means a special load line assigned to ships complying with certain conditions related
to their construction set out in the International Convention on Load Lines and used when the cargo complies
with the stowage and securing conditions of the Code of Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck
Cargoes, 1991 (resolution A.715(17)).

2.20 Certification of the inclining test weights is the verification of the weight marked on a test weight. Test
weights should be certified using a certificated scale. The weighing should be performed close enough in time
to the inclining test to ensure the measured weight is accurate.

2.21 Draught is the vertical distance from the moulded baseline to the waterline.

2.22 The inclining test involves moving a series of known weights, normally in the transverse direction, and
then measuring the resulting change in the equilibrium heel angle of the ship. By using this information and
applying basic naval architecture principles, the ship’s vertical centre of gravity (VCG) is determined.

2.23 Lightship condition is a ship complete in all respects, but without consumables, stores, cargo, crew
and effects, and without any liquids on board except that machinery and piping fluids, such as lubricants and
hydraulics, are at operating levels.

2.24 A lightweight survey involves taking an audit of all items which should be added, deducted or relocated
on the ship at the time of the inclining test so that the observed condition of the ship can be adjusted to the
lightship condition. The mass, longitudinal, transverse and vertical location of each item should be accurately
determined and recorded. Using this information, the static waterline of the ship at the time of the inclining test
as determined from measuring the freeboard or verified draught marks of the ship, the ship’s hydrostatic data,
and the sea water density, the lightship displacement and longitudinal centre of gravity (LCG) can be
obtained. The transverse centre of gravity (TCG) may also be determined for mobile offshore drilling units
(MODUs) and other ships which are asymmetrical about the centreline or whose internal arrangement or
outfitting is such that an inherent list may develop from off-centre mass.

2.25 An in-service inclining test means an inclining test which is performed in order to verify the pre-
calculated GMC and the deadweight.s centre of gravity of an actual loading condition.

2.26 A stability instrument is an instrument installed on board a particular ship by means of which it can be
ascertained that stability requirements specified for the ship in the Stability Booklet are met in any operational
loading condition. A Stability Instrument comprises hardware and software.

*
Refer to regulation 42(1) of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 as amended, as
applicable.
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 6/83

Part A
Mandatory Criteria

Chapter 1
General

1.1 Application

1.1.1 The criteria stated under chapter 2 of this part present a set of minimum requirements that shall apply
to cargo * and passenger ships of 24 m in length and over.

1.1.2 The criteria stated under chapter 3 are special criteria for certain types of ships. For the purpose of
part A the definitions given in the Introduction apply.

1.2 Dynamic stability phenomena in waves

Administrations shall be aware that some ships are more at risk of encountering critical stability situations in
waves. Necessary precautionary provisions may need to be taken in the design to address the severity of
such phenomena. The phenomena in seaways which may cause large roll angles and/or accelerations have
been identified hereunder.

Having regard to the phenomena described in this section, the Administration may for a particular ship or
group of ships apply criteria demonstrating that the safety of the ship is sufficient. Any Administration which
applies such criteria should communicate to the Organization particulars thereof. It is recognized by the
Organization that performance oriented criteria for the identified phenomena listed in this section need to be
developed and implemented to ensure a uniform international level of safety.

1.2.1 Righting lever variation

Any ship exhibiting large righting lever variations between wave trough and wave crest condition may
experience parametric roll or pure loss of stability or combinations thereof.

1.2.2 Resonant roll in dead ship condition

Ships without propulsion or steering ability may be endangered by resonant roll while drifting freely.

1.2.3 Broaching and other manoeuvring related phenomena

Ships in following and quartering seas may not be able to keep constant course despite maximum steering
efforts which may lead to extreme angles of heel.

*
For containerships of 100 m in length and over, provisions of chapter 2.3 of part B may be applied as an alternative to
the application of chapter 2.2 of this part. Offshore supply vessels and special purpose ships are not required to comply
with provisions of chapter 2.3 of part A. For offshore supply vessels, provisions of chapter 2.4 of part B may be applied
as an alternative to the application of chapter 2.2 of this part. For special purpose ships, provisions of chapter 2.5 of part
B may be applied as an alternative to the application of chapter 2.2 of this part.
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 7/83

Chapter 2
General Criteria

2.1 General

2.1.1 All criteria shall be applied for all conditions of loading as set out in part B, 3.3 and 3.4.

2.1.2 Free surface effects (part B, 3.1) shall be accounted for in all conditions of loading as set out in part B,
3.3 and 3.4.

2.1.3 Where anti-rolling devices are installed in a ship, the Administration shall be satisfied that the criteria
can be maintained when the devices are in operation and that failure of power supply or the failure of the
device(s) will not result in the vessel being unable to meet the relevant provisions of this Code.

2.1.4 A number of influences such as icing of topsides, water trapped on deck, etc., adversely affect stability
and the Administration is advised to take these into account, so far as is deemed necessary.

2.1.5 Provisions shall be made for a safe margin of stability at all stages of the voyage, regard being given
to additions of weight, such as those due to absorption of water and icing (details regarding ice accretion are
given in part B, chapter 6 − Icing considerations) and to losses of weight such as those due to consumption of
fuel and stores.

2.1.6 Each ship shall be provided with a stability booklet, approved by the Administration, which contains
sufficient information (see part B, 3.6) to enable the master to operate the ship in compliance with the
applicable requirements contained in the Code. If a stability instrument is used as a supplement to the stability
booklet for the purpose of determining compliance with the relevant stability criteria such instrument shall be
subject to the approval by the Administration (see part B, chapter 4 − Stability calculations performed by
stability instruments).

2.1.7 If curves or tables of minimum operational metacentric height (GM) or maximum centre of gravity
(VCG) are used to ensure compliance with the relevant intact stability criteria those limiting curves shall
extend over the full range of operational trims, unless the Administration agrees that trim effects are not
significant. When curves or tables of minimum operational metacentric height (GM) or maximum centre of
gravity (VCG) versus draught covering the operational trims are not available, the master must verify that the
operating condition does not deviate from a studied loading condition, or verify by calculation that the stability
criteria are satisfied for this loading condition taking into account trim effects.

2.2 Criteria regarding righting lever curve properties

2.2.1 The area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) shall not be less than 0.055 metre-radians up to ϕ
= 30° angle of heel and not less than 0.09 metre-radians up to ϕ = 40° or the angle of down-flooding ϕf * if this
angle is less than 40°. Additionally, the area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) between the angles of
heel of 30° and 40° or between 30° and ϕf, if this angle is less than 40°, shall not be less than 0.03 metre-
radians.

2.2.2 The righting lever GZ shall be at least 0.2 m at an angle of heel equal to or greater than 30°.

*
ϕf is an angle of heel at which openings in the hull, superstructures or deckhouses which cannot be closed
weathertight immerse. In applying this criterion, small openings through which progressive flooding cannot take place
need not be considered as open.
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 8/83

2.2.3 The maximum righting lever shall occur at an angle of heel not less than 25°. If this is not practicable,
alternative criteria, based on an equivalent level of safety * , may be applied subject to the approval of the
Administration.

2.2.4 The initial metacentric height GM0 shall not be less than 0.15 m.

2.3 Severe wind and rolling criterion (weather criterion)

2.3.1 The ability of a ship to withstand the combined effects of beam wind and rolling shall be demonstrated,
with reference to figure 2.3.1 as follows:

.1 the ship is subjected to a steady wind pressure acting perpendicular to the ship’s centreline
which results in a steady wind heeling lever (lw1);

.2 from the resultant angle of equilibrium (ϕ0), the ship is assumed to roll owing to wave action to
an angle of roll (ϕ1) to windward. The angle of heel under action of steady wind (ϕ0) should not exceed
16° or 80% of the angle of deck edge immersion, whichever is less;

.3 the ship is then subjected to a gust wind pressure which results in a gust wind heeling lever
(lw2); and

.4 under these circumstances, area b shall be equal to or greater than area a, as indicated in
figure 2.3.1 below:

Figure 2.3.1 - Severe wind and rolling

*
Refer to the Explanatory Notes to the International Code on Intact Stability, 2008 (MSC.1/Circ.1281).
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 9/83

where the angles in figure 2.3.1 are defined as follows:

ϕ0 = angle of heel under action of steady wind

ϕ1 = angle of roll to windward due to wave action (see 2.3.1.2, 2.3.4 and footnote 6)

ϕ2 = angle of down-flooding (ϕf) or 50° or ϕc, whichever is less,

where:

ϕf = angle of heel at which openings in the hull, superstructures or deckhouses which

cannot be closed weathertight immerse. In applying this criterion, small openings through which
progressive flooding cannot take place need not be considered as open

ϕc = angle of second intercept between wind heeling lever lw2 and GZ curves.

2.3.2 The wind heeling levers lw1 and lw2 referred to in 2.3.1.1 and 2.3.1.3 are constant values at all angles
of inclination and shall be calculated as follows:

where:

P = wind pressure of 504 Pa. The value of P used for ships in restricted service may
be reduced subject to the approval of the Administration

A = projected lateral area of the portion of the ship and deck cargo above the
2
waterline (m )

Z = vertical distance from the centre of A to the centre of the underwater lateral area
or approximately to a point at one half the mean draught (m)

Δ = displacement (t)

g = gravitational acceleration of 9.81 m/s2.

2.3.3 Alternative means for determining the wind heeling lever (lw1) may be accepted, to the satisfaction of
the Administration, as an equivalent to calculation in 2.3.2. When such alternative tests are carried out,
reference shall be made based on the Guidelines developed by the Organization * . The wind velocity used in
the tests shall be 26 m/s in full scale with uniform velocity profile. The value of wind velocity used for ships in
restricted services may be reduced to the satisfaction of the Administration.

*
Refer to the Interim Guidelines for alternative assessment of the weather criterion (MSC.1/Circ.1200).
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 10/83

2.3.4 The angle of roll (ϕ1) * referred to in 2.3.1.2 shall be calculated as follows:

where:

X1 = factor as shown in table 2.3.4-1

X2 = factor as shown in table 2.3.4-2

k = factor as follows:

k = 1.0 for round-bilged ship having no bilge or bar keels

k = 0.7 for a ship having sharp bilges

k = as shown in table 2.3.4-3 for a ship having bilge keels, a bar keel or both

r = 0.73 + 0.6 OG/d

with:

OG = KG - d

d = mean moulded draught of the ship (m)

s = factor as shown in table 2.3.4-4, where T is the ship roll natural

period. In absence of sufficient information, the following approximate formula
can be used:

Rolling period

where:

C = 0.373 + 0.023(B/d) - 0.043(Lwl/100).

The symbols in tables 2.3.4-1, 2.3.4-2, 2.3.4-3 and 2.3.4-4 and the formula for
the rolling period are defined as follows:

Lwl = length of the ship at waterline (m)

B = moulded breadth of the ship (m)

d = mean moulded draught of the ship (m)

*
The angle of roll for ships with anti-rolling devices should be determined without taking into account the operation of
these devices unless the Administration is satisfied with the proof that the devices are effective even with sudden
shutdown of their supplied power.
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 11/83

CB = block coefficient (-)

Ak = total overall area of bilge keels, or area of the lateral projection of

the bar keel, or sum of these areas (m²)

GM = metacentric height corrected for free surface effect (m).

Table 2.3.4-1 - Values of factor X1

B/d X1
≤ 2.4 1.0
2.5 0.98
2.6 0.96
2.7 0.95
2.8 0.93
2.9 0.91
3.0 0.90
3.1 0.88
3.2 0.86
3.4 0.82
≥ 3.5 0.80

Table 2.3.4-2 - Values of factor X2

CB X2
≤ 0.45 0.75
0.50 0.82
0.55 0.89
0.60 0.95
0.65 0.97
≥ 0.70 1.00

Table 2.3.4-3 - Values of factor k

0 1.0
1.0 0.98
1.5 0.95
2.0 0.88
2.5 0.79
3.0 0.74
3.5 0.72
≥ 4.0 0.70
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 12/83

Table 2.3.4-4 - Values of factor s

T s
≤6 0.100
7 0.098
8 0.093
12 0.065
14 0.053
16 0.044
18 0.038
≥ 20 0.035

(Intermediate values in these tables shall be obtained by linear interpolation)

2.3.5 The tables and formulae described in 2.3.4 are based on data from ships having:

.1 B/d smaller than 3.5;

.2 (KG/d-1) between - 0.3 and 0.5; and

.3 T smaller than 20 s.

For ships with parameters outside of the above limits the angle of roll (ϕ1) may be determined with model
experiments of a subject ship with the procedure described in MSC.1/Circ.1200 as the alternative. In addition,
the Administration may accept such alternative determinations for any ship, if deemed appropriate.

Chapter 3
Special Criteria for Certain Types of Ships

3.1 Passenger ships

Passenger ships shall comply with the requirements of 2.2 and 2.3.

3.1.1 In addition, the angle of heel on account of crowding of passengers to one side as defined below shall
not exceed 10°.

3.1.1.1 A minimum weight of 75 kg shall be assumed for each passenger except that this value may be
increased subject to the approval of the Administration. In addition, the mass and distribution of the luggage
shall be approved by the Administration.

3.1.1.2 The height of the centre of gravity for passengers shall be assumed equal to:

.1 1 m above deck level for passengers standing upright. Account may be taken, if necessary, of
camber and sheer of deck; and

.2 0.3 m above the seat in respect of seated passengers.

3.1.1.3 Passengers and luggage shall be considered to be in the spaces normally at their disposal, when
assessing compliance with the criteria given in 2.2.1 to 2.2.4.

3.1.1.4 Passengers without luggage shall be considered as distributed to produce the most unfavourable
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 13/83

combination of passenger heeling moment and/or initial metacentric height, which may be obtained in
practice, when assessing compliance with the criteria given in 3.1.1 and 3.1.2, respectively. In this
connection, a value higher than four persons per square metre is not
necessary.

3.1.2 In addition, the angle of heel on account of turning shall not exceed 10° when calculated using the
following formula:

where:

MR = heeling moment (kNm)

vo = service speed (m/s)

LWL = length of ship at waterline (m)

Δ = displacement (t)

d = mean draught (m)

KG = height of centre of gravity above baseline (m).

3.2 Oil tankers of 5,000 dwt and above

Oil tankers, as defined in section 2 (Definitions) of the Introduction, shall comply with regulation 27 of Annex I
to MARPOL 73/78.

3.3 Cargo ships carrying timber deck cargoes

Cargo ships carrying timber deck cargoes shall comply with the requirements of 2.2 and 2.3 unless the
Administration is satisfied with the application of alternative provision 3.3.2.

3.3.1 Scope

The provisions given hereunder apply to all ships of 24 m in length and over engaged in the carriage of timber
deck cargoes. Ships that are provided with, and make use of, their timber load line shall also comply with the
requirements of regulations 41 to 45 of the 1966 Load Line Convention.

3.3.2 Alternative stability criteria

For ships loaded with timber deck cargoes and provided that the cargo extends longitudinally between
superstructures (where there is no limiting superstructure at the after end, the timber deck cargo shall extend
at least to the after end of the aftermost hatchway) * transversely for the full beam of ship, after due allowance
for a rounded gunwale, not exceeding 4% of the breadth of the ship and/or securing the supporting uprights
and which remains securely fixed at large angles of heel may be:

*
Refer to regulation 44(2) of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto,
as amended, as applicable.
 IS Code 2008
Part A page 14/83

3.3.2.1 The area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) shall not be less than 0.08 metre-radians up to ϕ =
40° or the angle of flooding if this angle is less than 40°.

3.3.2.2 The maximum value of the righting lever (GZ) shall be at least 0.25 m.

3.3.2.3 At all times during a voyage, the metacentric height GM0 shall not be less than 0.1 m, taking into
account the absorption of water by the deck cargo and/or ice accretion on the exposed surfaces (details
regarding ice accretion are given in part B, chapter 6 (Icing considerations)).

3.3.2.4 When determining the ability of the ship to withstand the combined effects of beam wind and rolling
according to 2.3, the 16° limiting angle of heel under action of steady wind shall be complied with, but the
additional criterion of 80% of the angle of deck edge immersion may be ignored.

3.4 Cargo ships carrying grain in bulk

The intact stability of ships engaged in the carriage of grain shall comply with the requirements of the
International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk adopted by resolution MSC.23(59). *

3.5 High-speed craft

High-speed craft, as defined in section 2 (Definitions) of the Introduction, constructed on or after 1 January
1996 but before 1 July 2002, to which chapter X of the 1974 SOLAS Convention applies, shall comply with
stability requirements of the 1994 HSC Code (resolution MSC.36(63)). Any high-speed craft to which chapter
X of the 1974 SOLAS Convention applies, irrespective of its date of construction, which has undergone
repairs, alterations or modifications of a major character; and a high-speed craft constructed on or after 1 July
2002, shall comply with stability requirements of the 2000 HSC Code (resolution MSC.97(73)).

*
Refer to part C of chapter VI of the 1974 SOLAS Convention as amended by resolution MSC.23(59).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 15/83

Part B
Recommendations for certain types of ships
and additional guidelines

Chapter 1
General

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this part of the Code is to:

.1 recommend stability criteria and other measures for ensuring the safe operation of certain
types of ships to minimize the risk to such ships, to the personnel on board and to the environment;
and

.2 provide guidelines for stability information, operational provisions against capsizing, icing
considerations, considerations for watertight integrity and the determination of lightship parameters.

1.2 Application

1.2.1 This part of the Code contains recommended intact stability criteria for certain types of ships and other
marine vehicles not included in part A or intended to supplement those of part A in particular cases regarding
size or operation.

1.2.2 Administrations may impose additional requirements regarding the design aspects of ships of novel
design or ships not otherwise covered by the Code.

1.2.3 The criteria stated in this part should give guidance to Administrations if no national requirements are
applied.

Chapter 2
Recommended design criteria for certain types of ships

2.1 Fishing vessels

2.1.1 Scope

The provisions given hereunder apply to decked seagoing fishing vessels as defined in section 2 (Definitions)
of the Introduction. The stability criteria given in 2.1.3 and 2.1.4 below should be complied with for all
conditions of loading as specified in 3.4.1.6, unless the Administration is satisfied that operating experience
justifies departures therefrom.

2.1.2 General precautions against capsizing

Apart from general precautions referred to in part B, 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3, the following measures should be
considered as preliminary guidance on matters influencing safety as related to stability:

.1 all fishing gear and other heavy material should be properly stowed and placed as low in the
vessel as possible;

.2 particular care should be taken when pull from fishing gear might have a negative effect on
stability, e.g., when nets are hauled by power-block or the trawl catches obstructions on the sea-bed.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 16/83

The pull of the fishing gear should be from as low a point on the vessel, above the waterline, as
possible;

.3 gear for releasing the deck load in fishing vessels which carry the catch on deck, e.g., herring,
should be kept in good working condition;

.4 when the main deck is prepared for carrying deck load by dividing it with pound boards, there
should be slots between them of suitable size to allow easy flow of water to freeing ports, thus
preventing trapping of water;

.5 to prevent a shift of the fish load carried in bulk, portable divisions in the holds should be
properly installed;

.6 reliance on automatic steering may be dangerous as this prevents changes to course which
may be needed in bad weather;

.7 necessary care should be taken to maintain adequate freeboard in all loading conditions, and
where load line regulations are applicable they should be strictly adhered to at all times; and

.8 particular care should be taken when the pull from fishing gear results in dangerous heel
angles. This may occur when fishing gear fastens onto an underwater obstacle or when handling
fishing gear, particularly on purse seiners, or when one of the trawl wires tears off. The heel angles
caused by the fishing gear in these situations may be eliminated by employing devices which can
relieve or remove excessive forces applied through the fishing gear. Such devices should not impose a
danger to the vessel through operating in circumstances other than those for which they were
intended.

2.1.3 Recommended general criteria *

2.1.3.1 The general intact stability criteria given in part A, 2.2.1 to 2.2.3 should apply to fishing vessels having
a length of 24 m and over, with the exception of requirements on the initial metacentric height GM (part A,
2.2.4), which, for fishing vessels, should not be less than 0.35 m for single-deck vessels. In vessels with
complete superstructure or vessels of 70 m in length and over the metacentric height may be reduced to the
satisfaction of the Administration but in no case should be less than 0.15 m.

2.1.3.2 The adoption by individual countries of simplified criteria which apply such basic stability values to their
own types and classes of vessels is recognized as a practical and valuable method of economically judging
the stability.

2.1.3.3 Where arrangements other than bilge keels are provided to limit the angle of roll, the Administration
should be satisfied that the stability criteria referred to in 2.1.3.1 are maintained in all operating conditions.

2.1.4 Severe wind and rolling criterion (weather criterion) for fishing vessels

2.1.4.1 The Administration may apply the provisions of part A, 2.3 to fishing vessels of 45 m length and over.

*
Refer to regulation III/2 of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 17/83

2.1.4.2 For fishing vessels in the length range between 24 m and 45 m, the Administration may apply the
provisions of part A, 2.3. Alternatively the values of wind pressure (see part A, 2.3.2) may be taken from the
following table:

h (m) 1 2 3 4 5 6 and over

P (Pa) 316 386 429 460 485 504

where h is the vertical distance from the centre of the projected vertical area of the vessel above the
waterline, to the waterline.

2.1.5 Recommendation for an interim simplified stability criterion for decked fishing vessels under
30 m in length

2.1.5.1 For decked vessels with a length less than 30 m, the following approximate formula for the minimum
metacentric height GMmin (in metres) for all operating conditions should be used as the criterion:

where:

L is the length of the vessel on the waterline in maximum load condition (m)

ls is the actual length of enclosed superstructure extending from side to side of the vessel (m)

B is the extreme breadth of the vessel on the waterline in maximum load condition (m)

D is the depth of the vessel measured vertically amidships from the base line to the top of the
upper deck at
side (m)

f is the smallest freeboard measured vertically from the top of the upper deck at side to the
actual waterline (m).

The formula is applicable for vessels having:

.1 f/B between 0.02 and 0.2;

.2 ls/L smaller than 0.6;

.3 B/D between 1.75 and 2.15;

.4 sheer fore and aft at least equal to or exceeding the standard sheer prescribed in regulation
38(8) of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 as amended, as
applicable; and

.5 height of superstructure included in the calculation is not less than 1.8 m.

For ships with parameters outside the above limits the formula should be applied with special care.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 18/83

2.1.5.2 The above formula is not intended as a replacement for the basic criteria given in 2.1.3 and 2.1.4 but is
to be used only if circumstances are such that cross curves of stability, KM curve and subsequent GZ curves
are not and cannot be made available for judging a particular vessels stability.

2.1.5.3 The calculated value of GM, should be compared with actual GM values of the vessel in all loading
conditions. If an inclining experiment based on estimated displacement, or another approximate method of
determining the actual GM is used, a safety margin should be added to the calculated GMmin.

2.2 Pontoons

2.2.1 Application

The provisions given hereunder apply to seagoing pontoons. A pontoon is considered to be normally:

.1 non self-propelled;

.2 unmanned;

.3 carrying only deck cargo;

.4 having a block coefficient of 0.9 or greater;

.5 having a breadth/depth ratio of greater than 3; and

.6 having no hatchways in the deck except small manholes closed with gasketed covers.

2.2.2 Stability drawings and calculations

The following information is typical of that required to be submitted to the Administration for approval:

.1 lines drawing;

.2 hydrostatic curves;

.3 cross curves of stability;

.4 report of draught and density readings and calculation of lightship displacement and
longitudinal centre of gravity;

.5 statement of justification of assumed vertical centre of gravity; and

.6 simplified stability guidance such as a loading diagram, so that the pontoon may be loaded in
compliance with the stability criteria.

2.2.3 Concerning the performance of calculations

The following guidance is suggested:

.1 no account should be taken of the buoyancy of deck cargo (except buoyancy credit for
adequately secured timber);
.2 consideration should be given to such factors as water absorption (e.g., timber), trapped water
in cargo (e.g., pipes) and ice accretion;
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 19/83

.3 in performing wind heel calculations:

.3.1 the wind pressure should be constant and for general operations be considered to act on a
solid mass extending over the length of the cargo deck and to an assumed height above the deck;

.3.2 the centre of gravity of the cargo should be assumed at a point mid-height of the cargo; and

.3.3 the wind lever should be taken from the centre of the deck cargo to a point at one half the
mean draught;

.4 calculations should be performed covering the full range of operating draughts; and

.5 the down-flooding angle should be taken as the angle at which an opening through which
progressive flooding may take place is immersed. This would not be an opening closed by a watertight
manhole cover or a vent fitted with an automatic
closure.

2.2.4 Intact stability criteria

2.2.4.1 The area under the righting lever curve up to the angle of maximum righting lever should not be less
than 0.08 metre-radians.

2.2.4.2 The static angle of heel due to a uniformly distributed wind load of 540 Pa (wind speed 30 m/s) should
not exceed an angle corresponding to half the freeboard for the relevant loading condition, where the lever of
wind heeling moment is measured from the centroid of the windage area to half the draught.

2.2.4.3 The minimum range of stability should be:

for L ≤ 100 m: 20°;

for L ≥ 150 m: 15°;

for intermediate length: by interpolation.

2.3 Containerships greater than 100 m

2.3.1 Application *

These requirements apply to containerships greater than 100 m in length as defined in section 2 (Definitions)
of the Introduction. They may also be applied to other cargo ships in this length range with considerable flare
or large water plane areas. The Administration may apply the following criteria instead of those in part A, 2.2.

2.3.2 Intact stability

2.3.2.1 The area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) should not be less than 0.009/C metre-radians up
to ϕ = 30° angle of heel, and not less than 0.016/C metre-radians up to ϕ = 40° or the angle of flooding ϕf (as
defined in part A, 2.2) if this angle is less than 40°.

*
Since the criteria in this section were empirically developed with the data of containerships less than 200 m in length,
they should be applied to ships beyond such limits with special care.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 20/83

2.3.2.2 Additionally, the area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) between the angles of heel of 30° and
40° or between 30° and ϕf, if this angle is less than 40°, should not be less than 0.006/C metre-radians.

2.3.2.3 The righting lever GZ should be at least 0.033/C m at an angle of heel equal or greater than 30°.

2.3.2.4 The maximum righting lever GZ should be at least 0.042/C m.

2.3.2.5 The total area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) up to the angle of flooding ϕf should not be
less than 0.029/C metre-radians.

2.3.2.6 In the above criteria the form factor C should be calculated using the formula and figure 2.3-1:

where:

d = mean draught (m)

D’ = moulded depth of the ship, corrected for defined parts of volumes within
the hatch coamings according to the formula:

D = moulded depth of the ship (m);

BD = moulded breadth of the ship (m);

KG = height of the centre of mass above base, corrected for free surface effect,
not be taken as less than d (m);

CB = block coefficient;

CW = water plane coefficient;

lH = length of each hatch coaming within L/4 forward and aft from amidships
(m) (see figure 2.3-1);

b = mean width of hatch coamings within L/4 forward and aft from amidships
(m) (see figure 2.3-1);

h = mean height of hatch coamings within L/4 forward and aft from amidships
(m) (see figure 2.3-1);

L = length of the ship (m);

B = breadth of the ship on the waterline (m);

 IS Code 2008
Part B page 21/83

Bm = breadth of the ship on the waterline at half mean draught (m).

Figure 2.3-1

The shaded areas in figure 2.3-1 represent partial volumes within the hatch coamings considered contributing
to resistance against capsizing at large heeling angles when the ship is on a wave crest.

2.3.2.7 The use of electronic loading and stability instrument is encouraged in determining the ship’s trim and
stability during different operational conditions.

2.4 Offshore supply vessels

2.4.1 Application

2.4.1.1 The provisions given hereunder apply to offshore supply vessels, as defined in section 2 (Definitions)
of the Introduction, of 24 m in length and over. The alternative stability criteria contained in 2.4.5 apply to
vessels of not more than 100 m in length.

2.4.1.2 For a vessel engaged in near-coastal voyages, as defined in section .Definitions., the principles given
in 2.4.2 should guide the Administration in the development of its national standards. Relaxations from the
requirements of the Code may be permitted by an Administration for vessels engaged in near-coastal
voyages off its own coasts provided the operating conditions are, in the opinion of that Administration, such as
to render compliance with the provisions of the Code unreasonable or unnecessary.

2.4.1.3 Where a ship other than an offshore supply vessel, as defined in section .Definitions., is employed on
a similar service, the Administration should determine the extent to which compliance with the provisions of
the Code is required.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 22/83

2.4.2 Principles governing near-coastal voyages

2.4.2.1 The Administration defining near-coastal voyages for the purpose of the present Code should not
impose design and construction standards for a vessel entitled to fly the flag of another State and engaged in
such voyages in a manner resulting in a more stringent standard for such a vessel than for a vessel entitled to
fly its own flag. In no case should the Administration impose, in respect of a vessel entitled to fly the flag of
another State, standards in excess of the Code for a vessel not engaged in near-coastal voyages.

2.4.2.2 With respect to a vessel regularly engaged in near-coastal voyages off the coast of another State the
Administration should prescribe design and construction standards for such a vessel at least equal to those
prescribed by the Government of the State off whose coast the vessel is engaged, provided such standards
do not exceed the Code in respect of a vessel not engaged in near-coastal voyages.

2.4.2.3 A vessel which extends its voyages beyond a near-coastal voyage should comply with the present
Code.

2.4.3 Constructional precautions against capsizing

2.4.3.1 Access to the machinery space should, if possible, be arranged within the forecastle. Any access to
the machinery space from the exposed cargo deck should be provided with two weathertight closures. Access
to spaces below the exposed cargo deck should preferably be from a position within or above the
superstructure deck.

2.4.3.2 The area of freeing ports in the side bulwarks of the cargo deck should at least meet the requirements
of regulation 24 of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto,
as amended, as applicable. The disposition of the freeing ports should be carefully considered to ensure the
most effective drainage of water trapped in pipe deck cargoes or in recesses at the after end of the forecastle.
In vessels operating in areas where icing is likely to occur, no shutters should be fitted in the freeing ports.

2.4.3.3 The Administration should give special attention to adequate drainage of pipe stowage positions
having regard to the individual characteristics of the vessel. However, the area provided for drainage of the
pipe stowage positions should be in excess of the required freeing port area in the cargo deck bulwarks and
should not be fitted with shutters.

2.4.3.4 A vessel engaged in towing operations should be provided with means for quick release of the towing
hawser.

2.4.4 Operational procedures against capsizing

2.4.4.1 The arrangement of cargo stowed on deck should be such as to avoid any obstruction of the freeing
ports or of the areas necessary for the drainage of pipe stowage positions to the freeing ports.

2.4.4.2 A minimum freeboard at the stern of at least 0.005 L should be maintained in all operating conditions.

2.4.5 Stability criteria

2.4.5.1 The stability criteria given in part A, 2.2 should apply to all offshore supply vessels except those having
characteristics which render compliance with part A, 2.2 impracticable.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 23/83

2.4.5.2 The following equivalent criteria should be applied where a vessels characteristics render compliance
with part A, 2.2 impracticable:

.1 the area under the curve of righting levers (GZ curve) should not be less than 0.07 metre-
radians up to an angle of 15° when the maximum righting lever (GZ) occurs at 15° and 0.055 metre-
radians up to an angle of 30° when the maximum righting lever (GZ) occurs at 30° or above. Where
the maximum righting lever (GZ) occurs at angles of between 15° and 30°, the corresponding area
under the righting lever curve should be:

0.055 + 0.001 (30° -. ϕmax) metre-radians * ;

.2 the area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) between the angles of heel of 30° and 40°,
or between 30° and ϕf if this angle is less than 40°, should be not less than 0.03 metre-radians;

.3 the righting lever (GZ) should be at least 0.2 m at an angle of heel equal to or greater than 30°;

.4 the maximum righting lever (GZ) should occur at an angle of heel not less than 15°;

.5 the initial transverse metacentric height (GMo) should not be less than 0.15 m; and

.6 reference is made also to part A, 2.1.3 to 2.1.5 and part B, 5.1.

2.5 Special purpose ships

2.5.1 Application

The provisions given hereunder apply to special purpose ships, as defined in section 2 (Definitions) of the
Introduction, of not less than 500 gross tonnage. The Administration may also apply these provisions as far as
reasonable and practicable to special purpose ships of less than 500 gross tonnage.

2.5.2 Stability criteria

The intact stability of special purpose ships should comply with the provisions given in part A, 2.2 except that
the alternative criteria given in part B, 2.4.5 which apply to offshore supply vessels may be used for special
purpose ships of less than 100 m in length of similar design and characteristics.

2.6 Mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs)

2.6.1 Application

2.6.1.1 The provisions given hereunder apply to mobile offshore drilling units as defined in section 2
(Definitions) of the Introduction, the keels of which are laid or which are at a similar stage of construction on or
after 1 May 1991. For MODUs constructed before that date, the corresponding provisions of chapter 3 of
resolution A.414(XI) should apply.

2.6.1.2 The coastal State may permit any unit designed to a lesser standard than that of this chapter to
engage in operations, having taken account of the local environmental conditions. Any such unit should,
however, comply with safety requirements which in the opinion of the coastal State are adequate for the
intended operation and ensure the overall safety of the unit and

*
ϕmax is the angle of heel in degrees at which the righting lever curve reaches its maximum.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 24/83

the personnel on board.

2.6.2 Righting moment and wind heeling moment curves

2.6.2.1 Curves of righting moments and of wind heeling moments similar to figure 2.6-1 with supporting
calculations should be prepared covering the full range of operating draughts, including those in transit
conditions, taking into account the maximum deck cargo and equipment in the most unfavourable position
applicable. The righting moment curves and wind heeling moment curves should be related to the most critical
axes. Account should be taken of the free surface of liquids in tanks.

Figure 2.6-1 - Righting moment and wind heeling moment curves

2.6.2.2 Where equipment is of such a nature that it can be lowered and stowed, additional wind heeling moment curves
may be required and such data should clearly indicate the position of such equipment.

2.6.2.3 The curves of wind heeling moment should be drawn for wind forces calculated by the following
formula:

F = 0.5 * CS * CH * ρ * V2 * A

where:

F is the wind force (N)

CS is the shape coefficient depending on the shape of the structural member

exposed to the wind (see table 2.6.2.3-1)

CH is the height coefficient depending on the height above sea level of the
structural member exposed to wind (see table 2.6.2.3-2)

ρ is the air mass density (1.222 kg/m³)

 IS Code 2008
Part B page 25/83

V is the wind velocity (m/s)

A is the projected area of all exposed surfaces in either the upright or the heeled
condition (m²).

Table 2.6.2.3-1 - Values of the coefficient CS

Shape CS
Spherical 0.40
Cylindrical 0.50
Large flat surface (hull, deck-house, smooth under-deck areas) 1.00
Drilling derrick 1.25
Wires 1.20
Exposed beams and girders under deck 1.30
Small parts 1.40
Isolated shapes (crane, beam, etc.) 1.50
Clustered deck-houses or similar structures 1.10

Table 2.6.2.3-2 - Values of the coefficient CH

Height above sea level (m) CH

0 − 15.3 1
15.3 − 30.5 1.1
30.5 − 46 1.2
46.0 − 61 1.3
61.0 − 76 1.37
76.0 − 91.5 1.43
91.5 − 106.5 1.48
106.5 − 122 1.52
122.0 − 137 1.56
137.0 − 152.5 1.6
152.5 − 167.5 1.63
167.5 − 183 1.67
183.0 − 198 1.7
198.0 − 213.5 1.72
213.5 − 228.5 1.75
228.5 − 244 1.77
244.0 − 256 1.79
Above 256 1.8

2.6.2.4 Wind forces should be considered from any direction relative to the unit and the value of the wind
velocity should be as follows:

.1 in general, a minimum wind velocity of 36 m/s (70 knots) for offshore service should be used for
normal operating conditions and a minimum wind velocity of 51.5 m/s (100 knots) should be used for
the severe storm conditions; and

.2 where a unit is to be limited in operation to sheltered locations (protected inland waters such as
lakes, bays, swamps, rivers, etc.), consideration should be given to a reduced wind velocity of not less
than 25.8 m/s (50 knots) for normal operating conditions.

2.6.2.5 In calculating the projected areas to the vertical plane, the area of surfaces exposed to wind due to
heel or trim, such as under decks, etc., should be included, using the appropriate shape factor. Open truss
work may be approximated by taking 30% of the projected block area of both the front and back section, i.e.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 26/83

60% of the projected area of one side.

2.6.2.6 In calculating the wind heeling moments, the lever of the wind overturning force should be taken
vertically from the centre of pressure of all surfaces exposed to the wind to the centre of lateral resistance of
the underwater body of the unit. The unit is to be assumed floating free of mooring restraint.

2.6.2.7 The wind heeling moment curve should be calculated for a sufficient number of heel angles to define
the curve. For ship-shaped hulls the curve may be assumed to vary as the cosine function of ship heel.

2.6.2.8 Wind heeling moments derived from wind-tunnel tests on a representative model of the unit may be
considered as alternatives to the method given in 2.6.2.3 to 2.6.2.7. Such heeling moment determination
should include lift and drag effects at various applicable heel angles.

2.6.3 Intact stability criteria

2.6.3.1The stability of a unit in each mode of operation should meet the following criteria (see also figure 2.6-
2):

.1 for surface and self-elevating units the area under the righting moment curve to the second
intercept or down-flooding angle, whichever is less, should be not less than 40% in excess of the area
under the wind heeling moment curve to the same limiting angle;

.2 for column-stabilized units the area under the righting moment curve to the angle of down-
flooding should be not less than 30% in excess of the area under the wind heeling moment curve to
the same limiting angle; and

.3 the righting moment curve should be positive over the entire range of angles from upright to the
second intercept.

Figure 2.6-2 . Righting moment and heeling moment curves

2.6.3.2 Each unit should be capable of attaining a severe storm condition in a period of time consistent with
the meteorological conditions. The procedures recommended and the approximate length of time required,
considering both operating conditions and transit conditions, should be contained in the operating manual, as
referred to in 3.6.2. It should be possible to achieve the severe storm condition without the removal or
relocation of solid consumables or other variable load. However, the Administration may permit loading a unit
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 27/83

past the point at which solid consumables would have to be removed or relocated to go to severe storm
condition under the following conditions, provided the allowable KG requirement is not exceeded:

.1 in a geographic location where weather conditions annually or seasonally do not become

sufficiently severe to require a unit to go to severe storm condition; or

.2 where a unit is required to support extra deckload for a short period of time that is well within
the bounds of a favourable weather forecast.

The geographic locations and weather conditions and loading conditions when this is permitted should be
identified in the operating manual.

2.6.3.3 Alternative stability criteria may be considered by the Administration provided an equivalent level of
safety is maintained and if they are demonstrated to afford adequate positive initial stability. In determining
the acceptability of such criteria, the Administration should consider at least the following and take into
account as appropriate:

.1 environmental conditions representing realistic winds (including gusts) and waves appropriate
for world-wide service in various modes of operation;

.2 dynamic response of a unit. Analysis should include the results of wind-tunnel tests, wave tank
model tests, and non-linear simulation, where appropriate. Any wind and wave spectra used should
cover sufficient frequency ranges to ensure that critical motion responses are obtained;

.3 potential for flooding taking into account dynamic responses in a seaway;

.4 susceptibility to capsizing considering the unit.s restoration energy and the static inclination due
to the mean wind speed and the maximum dynamic response; and

.5 an adequate safety margin to account for uncertainties.

An example of alternative criteria for twin-pontoon column-stabilized semi-submersible units is

given in section 2.6.4.

2.6.4 An example of alternative intact stability criteria for twin-pontoon column-stabilized semi-
submersible units

2.6.4.1 The criteria given below apply only to twin-pontoon column-stabilized semi-submersible units in severe
storm conditions which fall within the following ranges of parameters:

Vp/Vt is between 0.48 and 0.58

Awp/(Vc)2/3 is between 0.72 and 1.00

Lwp/[Vc * (Lptn/2)] is between 0.40 and 0.70

The parameters used in the above equations are defined in paragraph 2.6.4.3.

2.6.4.2 Intact stability criteria

The stability of a unit in the survival mode of operation should meet the following criteria.

2.6.4.2.1 Capsize criteria

 IS Code 2008
Part B page 28/83

These criteria are based on the wind heeling moment and righting moment curves calculated as shown in
section 2.6.2 of the Code at the survival draught. The reserve energy area .B. should be equal to or greater
than 10% of the dynamic response area .A. as shown in figure 2.6-3.

Area ‘B’/Area ‘A’ ≥ 0.10

where:
Area ‘A’ is the area under the righting moment curve measured from ϕ1 to (ϕ1 + 1.15 *
ϕdyn)

Area ‘B’ is the area under the righting moment curve measured from (ϕ1 + 1.15 * ϕdyn) to
ϕ2

ϕ1 is the first intercept with the 100 knot wind moment curve

ϕ2 is the second intercept with the 100 knot wind moment curve

ϕdyn is the dynamic response angle due to waves and fluctuating wind

ϕdyn = (10.3 + 17.8 * C)/(1 + GM/(1.46 + 0.28 * BM))

C= (Lptn 5/3 * VCPw1 * Aw* Vp * Vc 1/3)/( Lwp 5/3 * Vt)

Parameters used in the above equations are defined in paragraph 2.6.4.3.

Figure 2.6-3 - Righting moment and heeling moment curves

2.6.4.2.2 Down-flooding criteria

These criteria are based on the physical dimensions of the unit and the relative motion of the unit about a
static inclination due to a 75 knot wind measured at the survival draught. The initial down-flooding distance
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 29/83

(DFD0) should be greater than the reduction in down-flooding distance at the survival draught as shown in
figure 2.6-4.

DFD0 - RDFD > 0.0

where:

DFD0 is the initial down-flooding distance to Dm (m)

RDFD is the reduction in down-flooding distance (m) equal to SF (k * QSD1 + RMW)

SF is equal to 1.1, which is a safety factor to account for uncertainties in the

analysis, such as non-linear effects

k (correlation factor) is equal to 0.55 + 0.08 * (a - 4) + 0.056 * (1.52 - GM);

(GM cannot be taken to be greater than 2.44 m)

a is equal to (FBD0/Dm)*(Sptn * Lcc)/Awp (a cannot be taken to be less than 4)

QSD1 is equal to DFD0 minus quasi-static down-flooding distance at ϕ1 (m), but not to
be taken less than 3 m

RMW is the relative motion due to waves about ϕ1 (m), equal to 9.3 + 0.11 * (X - 12.19)

X is equal to Dm *(Vt/Vp)*(Awp 2/Iwp)*(Lcc/Lptn)

(X cannot be taken to be less than 12.19 m).

Figure 2.6-4 - Definition of down-flooding distance and relative motion

The parameters used in the above equations are defined in paragraph 2.6.4.3.

2.6.4.3 Geometric parameters

Awp is the waterplane area at the survival draught, including the effects of bracing members as
applicable (m²).

Aw is the effective wind area with the unit in the upright position (i.e. the product of projected area,
shape coefficient and height coefficient) (m2).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 30/83

BM is the vertical distance from the metacentre to the centre of buoyancy with the unit in the
upright position (m).

Dm is the initial survival draught (m).

FBD0 is the vertical distance from Dm, to the top of the upper exposed weathertight deck at the side
(m).

GM for paragraph 2.6.4.2.1, GM is the metacentric height measured about the roll or diagonal axis,
whichever gives the minimum reserve energy ratio, ‘B’/’A’. This axis is usually the diagonal axis as it
possesses a characteristically larger projected wind area which influences the three characteristic
angles mentioned above (m).

GM for paragraph 2.6.4.2.2, GM is the metacentric height measured about the axis which gives the
minimum down-flooding distance margin (i.e. generally the direction that gives the largest QSD1) (m).

Iwp is the water plane second moment of inertia at the survival draught, including the effects of
bracing members as applicable (m4).

Lccc is the longitudinal distance between centres of the corner columns (m).

Lptn is the length of each pontoon (m).

Sptn is the transverse distance between the centrelines of the pontoons (m).

Vc is the total volume of all columns from the top of the pontoons to the top of the column
structure, except for any volume included in the upper deck (m3).

Vp is the total combined volume of both pontoons (m3).

Vt is the total volume of the structures (pontoons, columns and bracings) contributing to the
buoyancy of the unit, from its baseline to the top of the column structure, except for any volume
included in the upper deck (m3).

VCPw1 is the vertical centre of wind pressure above Dm (m).

2.6.4.4 Capsize criteria assessment form

Input data

GM ............................................................................... = .......... m

BM ............................................................................... = .......... m

VCPw1 .......................................................................... = .......... m

AW ............................................................................... = .......... m2

Vt ............................................................................... = .......... m3

Vc ............................................................................... = .......... m3
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 31/83

Vp ............................................................................... = .......... m3

Iwp ............................................................................... = .......... m4

Lptn ............................................................................... = .......... m

Determine
ϕ1 ............................................................................... = .......... deg

ϕ2 ............................................................................... = .......... deg

C = (Lptn 5/3 * VCPw1 * Aw * Vp * Vc 1/3)/(Iwp 5/3 * Vt) ... = .......... m-1

ϕdyn = (10.3 + 17.8C)/(1 + GM/(1.46 + 0.28BM)) ....... = .......... deg

Area ‘A’ ......................................................................... = .......... m-deg

Area ‘B’ .......................................................................... = .......... m-deg

Results Reserve energy ratio:

‘B’/’’A’ = .............................. (minimum = 0.1)

GM = .......................... m (KG = ............ m)

Note: The minimum GM is that which produces a ‘B’/’A’ ratio = 0.1

2.6.4.5 Down-flooding criteria assessment form

Input data

DFD0 ............................................................................ = .............. m

FBD0 ........................................................................... = .............. m

GM ............................................................................... = .............. m

Dm ............................................................................... = .............. m

Vt ............................................................................... = .............. m3

Vp ............................................................................... = .............. m3

Awp ............................................................................... = .............. m2

Iwp ............................................................................... = .............. m4

Lccc ............................................................................... = .............. m

Lptn ............................................................................... = .............. m

 IS Code 2008
Part B page 32/83

Sptn ............................................................................... = .............. m

SF ............................................................................... = 1.1

Determine
ϕ1 ..................................................................... = .... deg

DFD1 ..................................................................... = .... m

QSD3 = DFD0 - DFD1 ............................................. = .... m

a = (FBD0/Dm)*(Sptn * Lccc)/Awp ...................... = .... (amin = 4)

k = 0.55 + 0.08*(a - 4) + 0.056*(1.52 - GM) ..... = .... m (GMmax = 2.44 m)

X = Dm*(Vt/Vp)*(Awp² /Iwp) )(Lccc/Lptn) .............. = .... m (Xmin = 12.19 m)

RMW = 9.3 + 0.11*(X - 12.19) ............................... = .... m

RDFD = SF*(k * QSD1 + RMW) ............................. = .... m

Results Down-flooding margin:

DFD0 - RDFD = ...................... (minimum = 0.0 m)

GM = .............. m (KG =..............m)

Note: The minimum GM is that which produces a down-flooding margin = 0.0 m.

Chapter 3
Guidance in preparing stability information

3.1 Effect of free surfaces of liquids in tanks

3.1.1 For all loading conditions, the initial metacentric height and the righting lever curve should be corrected
for the effect of free surfaces of liquids in tanks.

3.1.2 Free surface effects should be considered whenever the filling level in a tank is less than 98% of full
condition. Free surface effects need not be considered where a tank is nominally full, i.e. filling level is 98% or
above. Free surface effects for small tanks may be ignored under condition specified in 3.1.12. *

But nominally full cargo tanks should be corrected for free surface effects at 98% filling level. In doing so, the
correction to initial metacentric height should be based on the inertia moment of liquid surface at 5° of heeling
angle divided by displacement, and the correction to righting lever is suggested to be on the basis of real
shifting moment of cargo liquids.

3.1.3 Tanks which are taken into consideration when determining the free surface correction may be in one
of two categories:

*
Refer to the intact stability design criteria, contained in MARPOL regulation I/27, together with the associated Unified
Interpretation 45.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 33/83

.1 tanks with filling levels fixed (e.g., liquid cargo, water ballast). The free surface correction
should be defined for the actual filling level to be used in each tank; or

.2 tanks with filling levels variable (e.g., consumable liquids such as fuel oil, diesel oil and fresh
water, and also liquid cargo and water ballast during liquid transfer operations). Except as permitted in
3.1.5 and 3.1.6, the free surface correction should be the maximum value attainable between the filling
limits envisaged for each tank, consistent with any operating instructions.

3.1.4 In calculating the free surface effects in tanks containing consumable liquids, it should be assumed
that for each type of liquid at least one transverse pair or a single centreline tank has a free surface and the
tank or combination of tanks taken into account should be those where the effect of free surfaces is the
greatest.

3.1.5 Where water ballast tanks, including anti-rolling tanks and anti-heeling tanks, are to be filled or
discharged during the course of a voyage, the free surface effects should be calculated to take account of the
most onerous transitory stage relating to such operations.

3.1.6 For ships engaged in liquid transfer operations, the free surface corrections at any stage * of the liquid
transfer operations may be determined in accordance with the filling level in each tank at that stage of the
transfer operation.

3.1.7 The corrections to the initial metacentric height and to the righting lever curve should be addressed
separately as follows.

3.1.8 In determining the correction to initial metacentric height, the transverse moments of inertia of the
tanks should be calculated at 0° angle of heel according to the categories indicated in 3.1.3.

3.1.9 The righting lever curve may be corrected by any of the following methods subject to the agreement of
the Administration:

.1 correction based on the actual moment of fluid transfer for each angle of heel calculated; or

.2 correction based on the moment of inertia, calculated at 0° angle of heel, modified at each
angle of heel calculated.

3.1.10 Corrections may be calculated according to the categories indicated in 3.1.2.

3.1.11 Whichever method is selected for correcting the righting lever curve, only that method should be
presented in the ship’s stability booklet. However, where an alternative method is described for use in
manually calculated loading conditions, an explanation of the differences which may be found in the results,
as well as an example correction for each alternative, should
be included.

3.1.12 Small tanks which satisfy the following condition corresponding to an angle of inclination of 30°, need
not be included in the correction:

Mfs / Δmin< 0.01 m

*
A sufficient number of loading conditions representing the initial, intermediate and final stages of the filling or discharge
operation using the free surface correction at the filling level in each tank at the considered stage may be evaluated to
fulfil this recommendation.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 34/83

where:

Mfs free surface moment (mt)

Δmin is the minimum ship displacement calculated at dmin (t)

dmin is the minimum mean service draught of the ship without cargo, with 10% stores
and minimum water ballast, if required (m).

3.1.13 The usual remainder of liquids in empty tanks need not be taken into account in calculating the
corrections, provided that the total of such residual liquids does not constitute a significant free surface effect.

3.2 Permanent ballast

If used, permanent ballast should be located in accordance with a plan approved by the Administration and in
a manner that prevents shifting of position. Permanent ballast should not be removed from the ship or
relocated within the ship without the approval of the Administration. Permanent ballast particulars should be
noted in the ship’s stability booklet.

3.3 Assessment of compliance with stability criteria *

3.3.1 Except as otherwise required by this Code, for the purpose of assessing in general whether the
stability criteria are met, stability curves using the assumptions given in this Code should be drawn for the
loading conditions intended by the owner in respect of the ship’s operations.

3.3.2 If the owner of the ship does not supply sufficiently detailed information regarding such loading
conditions, calculations should be made for the standard loading conditions.

3.4 Standard conditions of loading to be examined

3.4.1 Loading conditions

The standard loading conditions referred to in the text of the present Code are as follows.

3.4.1.1 For a passenger ship:

.1 ship in the fully loaded departure condition with cargo, full stores and fuel and with the full
number of passengers with their luggage;

.2 ship in the fully loaded arrival condition, with cargo, the full number of passengers and their
luggage but with only 10% stores and fuel remaining;

.3 ship without cargo, but with full stores and fuel and the full number of passengers and their
luggage; and

.4 ship in the same condition as at 0 above with only 10% stores and fuel remaining.

3.4.1.2 For a cargo ship:

*
Care should be taken in the assessment of compliance with stability criteria, especially conditions in which liquid
transfer operations might be expected or anticipated, to insure that the stability criteria is met at all stages of the voyage
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 35/83

.1 ship in the fully loaded departure condition, with cargo homogeneously distributed throughout
all cargo spaces and with full stores and fuel;

.2 ship in the fully loaded arrival condition with cargo homogeneously distributed throughout all
cargo spaces and with 10% stores and fuel remaining;

.3 ship in ballast in the departure condition, without cargo but with full stores and fuel; and

.4 ship in ballast in the arrival condition, without cargo and with 10% stores and fuel remaining.

3.4.1.3 For a cargo ship intended to carry deck cargoes:

.1 ship in the fully loaded departure condition with cargo homogeneously distributed in the holds
and with cargo specified in extension and mass on deck, with full stores and fuel; and

.2 ship in the fully loaded arrival condition with cargo homogeneously distributed in holds and with
a cargo specified in extension and mass on deck, with 10% stores and fuel.

3.4.1.4 For a ship intended to carry timber deck cargoes:

The loading conditions which should be considered for ships carrying timber deck cargoes are specified in
3.4.1.3. The stowage of timber deck cargoes should comply with the provisions of chapter 3 of the Code of
Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck Cargoes, 1991 (resolution A.715(17)). *

3.4.1.5 For an offshore supply vessel the standard loading conditions should be as follows:

.1 vessel in fully loaded departure condition with cargo distributed below deck and with cargo
specified by position and weight on deck, with full stores and fuel, corresponding to the worst service
condition in which all the relevant stability criteria are met;

.2 vessel in fully loaded arrival condition with cargo as specified in 3.4.1.5.1, but with 10% stores
and fuel;

.3 vessel in ballast departure condition, without cargo but with full stores and fuel;

.4 vessel in ballast arrival condition, without cargo and with 10% stores and fuel remaining; and

.5 vessel in the worst anticipated operating condition.

3.4.1.6 For fishing vessels the standard loading conditions referred to in 2.1.1 are as follows † :

.1 departure conditions for the fishing grounds with full fuel, stores, ice, fishing gear, etc.;

.2 departure from the fishing grounds with full catch and a percentage of stores, fuel, etc., as
agreed by the Administration;

.3 arrival at home port with 10% stores, fuel, etc. remaining and full catch; and

*
Refer to chapter VI of the 1974 SOLAS Convention and to part C of chapter VI of the 1974 SOLAS Convention as
amended by resolution MSC.22(59).
†
Refer to regulation III/7 of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 36/83

.4 arrival at home port with 10% stores, fuel, etc. and a minimum catch, which should normally be
20% of full catch but may be up to 40% provided the Administration is satisfied that operating patterns
justify such a value.

3.4.2 Assumptions for calculating loading conditions

3.4.2.1 For the fully loaded conditions mentioned in 3.4.1.2.1, 3.4.1.2.2, 3.4.1.3.1 and 3.4.1.3.2 if a dry cargo
ship has tanks for liquid cargo, the effective deadweight in the loading conditions therein described should be
distributed according to two assumptions, i.e. with cargo tanks full, and with cargo tanks empty.

3.4.2.2 In the conditions mentioned in 3.4.1.1.1, 3.4.1.2.1 and 3.4.1.3.1 it should be assumed that the ship is
loaded to its subdivision load line or summer load line or if intended to carry a timber deck cargo, to the
summer timber load line with water ballast tanks empty.

3.4.2.3 If in any loading condition water ballast is necessary, additional diagrams should be calculated taking
into account the water ballast. Its quantity and disposition should be stated.

3.4.2.4 In all cases, the cargo in holds is assumed to be fully homogeneous unless this condition is
inconsistent with the practical service of the ship.

3.4.2.5 In all cases, when deck cargo is carried, a realistic stowage mass should be assumed and stated,
including the height of the cargo.

3.4.2.6 Considering timber deck cargo the following assumptions are to be made for calculating the loading
conditions referred to in 3.4.1.4:

.1 the amount of cargo and ballast should correspond to the worst service condition in which all
the relevant stability criteria of part A 2.2 or the optional criteria given in part A 3.3.2, are met. In the
arrival condition, it should be assumed that the weight of the deck cargo has increased by 10% owing
to water absorption.

3.4.2.7 For offshore supply vessels, the assumptions for calculating loading conditions should be as follows:

.1 if a vessel is fitted with cargo tanks, the fully loaded conditions of 3.4.1.5.1 and 3.4.1.5.2 should
be modified, assuming first the cargo tanks full and then the cargo tanks empty;

.2 if in any loading condition water ballast is necessary, additional diagrams should be calculated,
taking into account the water ballast, the quantity and disposition of which should be stated in the
stability information;

.3 in all cases when deck cargo is carried a realistic stowage weight should be assumed and
stated in the stability information, including the height of the cargo and its centre of gravity;

.4 where pipes are carried on deck, a quantity of trapped water equal to a certain percentage of
the net volume of the pipe deck cargo should be assumed in and around the pipes. The net volume
should be taken as the internal volume of the pipes, plus the volume between the pipes. This
percentage should be 30 if the freeboard amidships is equal to or less than 0.015 L and 10 if the
freeboard amidships is equal to or greater than 0.03 L. For intermediate values of the freeboard
amidships the percentage may be obtained by linear interpolation. In assessing the quantity of trapped
water, the Administration may take into account positive or negative sheer aft, actual trim and area of
operation; or
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 37/83

.5 if a vessel operates in zones where ice accretion is likely to occur, allowance for icing should
be made in accordance with the provisions of chapter 6 (Icing considerations).

3.4.2.8 For fishing vessels the assumptions for calculating loading conditions should be as follows:

.1 allowance should be made for the weight of the wet fishing nets and tackle, etc., on deck;

.2 allowance for icing, where this is anticipated to occur, should be made in accordance with the
provisions of 6.3;

.3 in all cases the cargo should be assumed to be homogeneous unless this is inconsistent with
practice;

.4 in conditions referred to in 3.4.1.6.2 and 3.4.1.6.3 deck cargo should be included if such a
practice is anticipated;

.5 water ballast should normally only be included if carried in tanks which are specially provided
for this purpose.

3.4 Standard conditions of loading to be examined

3.4.1 Loading conditions

The standard loading conditions referred to in the text of the present Code are as follows.

3.4.1.1 For a passenger ship:

.1 ship in the fully loaded departure condition with cargo, full stores and fuel and with the full
number of passengers with their luggage;

3.5 Calculation of stability curves

3.5.1 General

Hydrostatic and stability curves should be prepared for the trim range of operating loading conditions taking
into account the change in trim due to heel (free trim hydrostatic calculation). The calculations should take
into account the volume to the upper surface of the deck sheathing. Furthermore, appendages and sea
chests need to be considered when calculating hydrostatics and cross curves of stability. In the presence of
port-starboard asymmetry, the most unfavourable righting lever curve should be used.

3.5.2 Superstructures, deckhouses, etc., which may be taken into account

3.5.2.1 Enclosed superstructures complying with regulation 3(10)(b) of the 1966 Load Line Convention and
the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended, may be taken into account.

3.5.2.2 Additional tiers of similarly enclosed superstructures may also be taken into account. As guidance
windows (pane and frame) that are considered without deadlights in additional tiers above the second tier if
considered buoyant should be designed with strength to sustain a safety margin * with regard to the required

*
As a guidance for Administrations a safety margin of 30% should be applied.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 38/83

strength of the surrounding structure. *

3.5.2.3 Deckhouses on the freeboard deck may be taken into account, provided that they comply with the
conditions for enclosed superstructures laid down in regulation 3(10)(b) of the 1966 Load Line Convention
and the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended.

3.5.2.4 Where deckhouses comply with the above conditions, except that no additional exit is provided to a
deck above, such deckhouses should not be taken into account; however, any deck openings inside such
deckhouses should be considered as closed even where no means of closure are provided.

3.5.2.5 Deckhouses, the doors of which do not comply with the requirements of regulation 12 of the 1966
Load Line Convention and the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended, should not be taken into
account; however, any deck openings inside the deckhouse are regarded as closed where their means of
closure comply with the requirements of regulations 15, 17 or 18 of the 1966 Load Line Convention and the
Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended.

3.5.2.6 Deckhouses on decks above the freeboard deck should not be taken into account, but openings within
them may be regarded as closed.

3.5.2.7 Superstructures and deckhouses not regarded as enclosed can, however, be taken into account in
stability calculations up to the angle at which their openings are flooded (at this angle, the static stability curve
should show one or more steps, and in subsequent computations the flooded space should be considered
non-existent).

3.5.2.8 In cases where the ship would sink due to flooding through any openings, the stability curve should be
cut short at the corresponding angle of flooding and the ship should be considered to have entirely lost its
stability.

3.5.2.9 Small openings such as those for passing wires or chains, tackle and anchors, and also holes of
scuppers, discharge and sanitary pipes should not be considered as open if they submerge at an angle of
inclination more than 30°. If they submerge at an angle of 30° or less, these openings should be assumed
open if the Administration considers this to be a source of
significant flooding.

3.5.2.10 Trunks may be taken into account. Hatchways may also be taken into account having regard to the
effectiveness of their closures.

3.5.3 Calculation of stability curves for ships carrying timber deck cargoes

In addition to the provisions given above, the Administration may allow account to be taken of the buoyancy of
the deck cargo assuming that such cargo has a permeability of 25% of the volume occupied by the cargo.
Additional curves of stability may be required if the Administration considers it necessary to investigate the
influence of different permeabilities and/or assumed effective height of the deck cargo.

3.6 Stability booklet

3.6.1 Stability data and associated plans should be drawn up in the working language of the ship and any
other language the Administration may require. Reference is also made to the International Safety
Management (ISM) Code, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.741(18). All translations of the stability
booklet should be approved.

*
IMO guidance for testing these windows is to be developed.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 39/83

3.6.2 Each ship should be provided with a stability booklet, approved by the Administration, which contains
sufficient information to enable the master to operate the ship in compliance with the applicable requirements
contained in the Code. The Administration may have additional requirements. On a mobile offshore drilling
unit, the stability booklet may be referred to as an operating manual. The stability booklet may include
information on longitudinal strength. This Code addresses only the stability-related contents of the booklet. *

3.6.3 For ships carrying timber deck cargoes:

.1 comprehensive stability information should be supplied which takes into account timber deck
cargo. Such information should enable the master, rapidly and simply, to obtain accurate guidance as
to the stability of the ship under varying conditions of service. Comprehensive rolling period tables or
diagrams have proved to be very useful aids in verifying the actual stability conditions; †

.2 the Administration may deem it necessary that the master be given information setting out the
changes in deck cargo from that shown in the loading conditions, when the permeability of the deck
cargo is significantly different from 25% (refer
to 3.5.3); and

.3 conditions should be shown indicating the maximum permissible amount of deck cargo having
regard to the lightest stowage rate likely to be met in service.

3.6.4 The format of the stability booklet and the information included will vary dependent on the ship type
and operation. In developing the stability booklet, consideration should be given to including the following
information ‡ :

.1 a general description of the ship;

.2 instructions on the use of the booklet;

.3 general arrangement plans showing watertight compartments, closures, vents, downflooding

angles, permanent ballast, allowable deck loadings and freeboard diagrams;

.4 hydrostatic curves or tables and cross curves of stability calculated on a free-trimming basis,
for the ranges of displacement and trim anticipated in normal operating conditions;

.5 capacity plan or tables showing capacities and centres of gravity for each cargo stowage
space;

.6 tank sounding tables showing capacities, centres of gravity, and free surface data for each
tank;

.7 information on loading restrictions, such as maximum KG or minimum GM curve or table that

can be used to determine compliance with the applicable stability criteria;

.8 standard operating conditions and examples for developing other acceptable loading conditions
*
Refer to regulation II-1/22 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended, regulation 10 of the International Convention
on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 as amended, as applicable and regulation III/10 of the 1993 Torremolinos
Protocol.
†
Refer to regulation II-1/22 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended, and regulation 10(2) of the International
Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended, as applicable.
‡
Refer to the Model Loading and Stability Manual (MSC/Circ.920).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 40/83

using the information contained in the stability booklet;

.9 a brief description of the stability calculations done including assumptions;

.10 general precautions for preventing unintentional flooding;

.11 information concerning the use of any special cross-flooding fittings with descriptions of
damage conditions which may require cross-flooding;

.12 any other necessary guidance for the safe operation of the ship under normal and emergency
conditions;

.13 a table of contents and index for each booklet;

.14 inclining test report for the ship, or:

.14.1 where the stability data is based on a sister ship, the inclining test report of that sister
ship along with the lightship measurement report for the ship in question; or

.14.2 where lightship particulars are determined by other methods than from inclining of the
ship or its sister, a summary of the method used to determine those particulars;

.15 recommendation for determination of ship’s stability by means of an in-service inclining test.

3.6.5 As an alternative to the stability booklet mentioned in 3.6.1, a simplified booklet in an approved form
containing sufficient information to enable the master to operate the ship in compliance with the applicable
provisions of the Code as may be provided at the discretion of the Administration concerned.

3.7 Operational measures for ships carrying timber deck cargoes

3.7.1 The stability of the ship at all times, including during the process of loading and unloading timber deck
cargo, should be positive and to a standard acceptable to the Administration. It should be calculated having
regard to:

.1 the increased weight of the timber deck cargo due to:

.1.1 absorption of water in dried or seasoned timber, and

.1.2 ice accretion, if applicable (chapter 6 (Icing considerations));

.2 variations in consumables;

.3 the free surface effect of liquid in tanks; and

.4 weight of water trapped in broken spaces within the timber deck cargo and especially logs.

3.7.2 The master should:

.1 cease all loading operations if a list develops for which there is no satisfactory explanation and
it would be imprudent to continue loading;

.2 before proceeding to sea, ensure that:

 IS Code 2008
Part B page 41/83

.2.1 the ship is upright;

.2.2 the ship has an adequate metacentric height; and

.2.3 the ship meets the required stability criteria.

3.7.3 The masters of ships having a length less than 100 m should also:

.1 exercise good judgement to ensure that a ship which carries stowed logs on deck has sufficient
additional buoyancy so as to avoid overloading and loss of stability at sea;

.2 be aware that the calculated GM0 in the departure condition may decrease continuously owing
to water absorption by the deck cargo of logs, consumption of fuel, water and stores and ensure that
the ship has adequate GM0 throughout the voyage; and

.3 be aware that ballasting after departure may cause the ship’s operating draught to exceed the
timber load line. Ballasting and deballasting should be carried out in accordance with the guidance
provided in the Code of Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck Cargoes, 1991 (resolution
A.715(17)).

3.7.4 Ships carrying timber deck cargoes should operate, as far as possible, with a safe margin of stability
and with a metacentric height which is consistent with safety requirements but such metacentric height should
not be allowed to fall below the recommended minimum, as specified in part A, 3.3.2.

3.7.5 However, excessive initial stability should be avoided as it will result in rapid and violent motion in
heavy seas which will impose large sliding and racking forces on the cargo causing high stresses on the
lashings. Operational experience indicates that metacentric height should preferably not exceed 3% of the
breadth in order to prevent excessive accelerations in rolling provided that the relevant stability criteria given
in part A, 3.3.2 are satisfied. This recommendation may not apply to all ships and the master should take into
consideration the stability information obtained from the ship’s stability booklet.

3.8 Operating booklets for certain ships

3.8.1 Special purpose ships and novel craft, should be provided with additional information in the stability
booklet such as design limitations, maximum speed, worst intended weather conditions or other information
regarding the handling of the craft that the master needs to operate the ship safely.

3.8.2 For double hull oil tankers of single cargo tank across design, an operation manual for loading and
unloading cargo oil should be provided, including operational procedures of loading and unloading cargo oil
and detailed data of the initial metacentric height of the oil tanker and that of free surface correction of liquids
in cargo oil tanks and ballast tanks during loading and unloading cargo oil (including ballasting and
discharging) and cargo oil washing of tanks. *

3.8.3 The stability booklet of ro-ro passenger ships should contain information concerning the importance of
securing and maintaining all closures watertight due to the rapid loss of stability which may result when water
enters the vehicle deck and the fact that capsize can rapidly follow.

*
Refer to the Guidance on intact stability of existing tankers during liquid transfer operations (MSC/Circ.706-
MEPC/Circ.304).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 42/83

Chapter 4
Stability calculations performed by stability instruments

4.1 Stability instruments *

A stability instrument installed onboard should cover all stability requirements applicable to the ship. The
software is subject to approval by the Administration. Active and passive systems are defined in 4.1.2. These
requirements cover passive systems and the off-line operation mode of active systems only.

4.1.1 General

4.1.1.1 The scope of stability calculation software should be in accordance with the approved stability booklet
and should at least include all information and perform all calculations or checks as necessary to ensure
compliance with the applicable stability requirements.

4.1.1.2 An approved stability instrument is not a substitute for the approved stability booklet, and is used as a
supplement to the approved stability booklet to facilitate stability calculations.

4.1.1.3 The input/output information should be easily comparable with the approved stability booklet so as to
avoid confusion and possible misinterpretation by the operator.

4.1.1.4 An operation manual should be provided for the stability instrument.

4.1.1.5 The language in which the stability calculation results are displayed and printed out as well as the
operation manual is written should be the same as used in the ship’s approved stability booklet. A translation
into a language considered appropriate may be required.

4.1.1.6 The stability instrument is ship specific equipment and the results of the calculations are only
applicable to the ship for which it has been approved.

4.1.1.7 In case of modifications of the ship which cause alterations in the stability booklet, the specific
approval of any original stability calculation software is no longer valid. The software should be modified
accordingly and re-approved.

4.1.1.8 Any change in software version related to the stability calculation should be reported to and be
approved by the Administration.

4.1.2 Data entry system

4.1.2.1 A passive system requires manual data entry.

4.1.2.2 An active system replaces partly the manual entry with sensors reading and entering the contents of
tanks, etc.

4.1.2.3 Any integrated system which controls or initiates actions based on the sensor-supplied inputs is not
within the scope of this Code except the part calculating the stability.

4.1.3 Types of stability software

Three types of calculations performed by stability software are acceptable depending upon a vessels stability

*
Refer to the Guidelines for the approval of stability instruments (MSC.1/Circ.1229).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 43/83

requirements:

Type 1

Software calculating intact stability only (for vessels not required to meet a damage stability criterion).

Type 2

Software calculating intact stability and checking damage stability on basis of a limit curve (e.g., for
vessels applicable to SOLAS part B-1 damage stability calculations, etc.) or previously approved
loading conditions.

Type 3

Software calculating intact stability and damage stability by direct application of pre-programmed
damage cases for each loading condition (for some tankers, etc.). The results of the direct calculations
performed by the stability instrument could be accepted by the Administration even if they differ from
the required minimum GM or maximum VCG stated in the approved stability booklet. Such deviations
could be accepted under the condition that all relevant stability requirements will be complied with by
the results of the direct calculations.

4.1.4 Functional requirements

4.1.4.1 The stability instrument should present relevant parameters of each loading condition in order to assist
the master in his judgement on whether the ship is loaded within the approved limits. The following
parameters should be presented for a given loading condition:

.1 detailed deadweight data items including centre of gravity and free surfaces, if applicable;

.2 trim, list;

.3 draught at the draught marks and perpendiculars;

.4 summary of loading condition displacement, VCG, LCG, TCG, VCB, LCB, TCB, LCF, GM and
GML;

.5 table showing the righting lever versus heeling angle including trim and draught;

.6 down-flooding angle and corresponding down-flooding opening; and

.7 compliance with stability criteria: Listings of all calculated stability criteria, the limit values, the
obtained values and the conclusions (criteria fulfilled or not fulfilled).

4.1.4.2 If direct damage stability calculations are performed, the relevant damage cases according to the
applicable rules should be pre-defined for automatic check of a given loading condition.

4.1.4.3 A clear warning should be given on screen and in hard copy printout if any of the limitations are not
complied with.

4.1.4.4 The data should be presented on screen and in hard copy printout in a clear unambiguous manner.

4.1.4.5 The date and time of a saved calculation should be part of the screen display and hard copy printout.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 44/83

4.1.4.6 Each hard copy printout should contain identification of the calculation program including version
number.

4.1.4.7 Units of measurement should be clearly identified and used consistently within a loading calculation.

4.1.5 Acceptable tolerances

Depending on the type and scope of programs, the acceptable tolerances should be determined differently,
according to 4.1.5.1 or 4.1.5.2. Deviation from these tolerances should not be accepted unless the
Administration considers that there is a satisfactory explanation for the difference and that there will be no
adverse effect on the safety of the ship.

The accuracy of the results should be determined using an independent program or the approved stability
booklet with identical input.

4.1.5.1 Programs which use only pre-programmed data from the approved stability booklet as the basis for
stability calculations should have zero tolerances for the printouts of input data.

Output data tolerances should be close to zero, however, small differences associated with calculation
rounding or abridged input data are acceptable. Additionally differences associated with the use of hydrostatic
and stability data for trims and the method calculating free surface moments that differ from those in the
approved stability booklet are acceptable subject to review by the Administration.

4.1.5.2 Programs which use hull form models as their basis for stability calculations should have tolerances for
the printouts of basic calculated data established against either data from the approved stability booklet or
data obtained using the dministration.s approval model.

4.1.6 Approval procedure

4.1.6.1 Conditions of approval of the stability instrument

The software approval includes:

.1 verification of type approval, if any;

.2 verification that the data used is consistent with the current condition of the ship (refer to
4.1.6.2);

.3 verification and approval of the test conditions; and

.4 verification that the software is appropriate for the type of ship and stability calculations
required.

The satisfactory operation of the stability instrument is to be verified by testing upon installation (refer to
4.1.8). A copy of the approved test conditions and the operation manual for the stability instrument are to be
available on board.

4.1.6.2 Specific approval

4.1.6.2.1 The accuracy of the computational results and actual ship data used by the calculation program for
the particular ship on which the program will be installed should be to the satisfaction of the Administration.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 45/83

4.1.6.2.2 Upon application for data verification, minimum of four loading conditions should be taken from the
ship’s approved stability booklet, which should be used as the test conditions. For ships carrying liquids in
bulk, at least one of the conditions should include partially filled tanks. For ships carrying grain in bulk, one of
the grain loading conditions should include a partially filled grain compartment. Within the test conditions each
compartment should be loaded at least once. The test conditions normally should cover the range of load
draughts from the deepest envisaged loaded condition to the light ballast condition and should include at least
one departure and one arrival condition.

4.1.6.2.3 The following data, submitted by the applicant, should be consistent with arrangements and most
recently approved lightship characteristics of the ship according to current plans and documentation on file,
subject to possible further verification on board:

.1 identification of the calculation program including version number. Main dimensions, hydrostatic
particulars and, if applicable, the ship’s profile;

.2 the position of the forward and aft perpendiculars, and if appropriate, the calculation method to
derive the forward and aft draughts at the actual position of the ship’s draught marks;

.3 ship’s lightweight and centre of gravity derived from the most recently approved inclining
experiment or light weight survey;

.4 lines plan, offset tables or other suitable presentation of hull form data including all relevant
appendages, if necessary to model the ship;

.5 compartment definitions, including frame spacing, and centres of volume, together with
capacity tables (sounding/ullage tables), free surface corrections, if appropriate; and

.6 cargo and consumables distribution for each loading condition. Verification by the
Administration does not absolve the shipowner of responsibility for ensuring that the information
programmed into the stability instrument is consistent with the current condition of the ship and
approved stability booklet.

4.1.7 User manual

A simple and straightforward user manual written in the same language as the stability booklet should be
provided, containing descriptions and instructions, as appropriate, for at least the following:

.1 installation;

.2 function keys;

.3 menu displays;

.4 input and output data;

.5 required minimum hardware to operate the software;

.6 use of the test loading conditions;

.7 computer-guided dialogue steps; and

 IS Code 2008
Part B page 46/83

.8 list of warnings.

A user manual in electronic format may be provided in addition to the written manual.

4.1.8 Installation testing

4.1.8.1 To ensure correct working of the stability instrument after the final or updated software has been
installed, it is the responsibility of the ship’s master to have test calculations carried out according to the
following pattern in the presence of an Administration.s surveyor. From the approved test conditions at least
one load case (other than light ship) should be calculated.

Note: Actual loading condition results are not suitable for checking the correct working of the stability
instrument.

4.1.8.2 Normally, the test conditions are permanently stored in the stability instrument. Steps to be performed:

.1 retrieve the test load case and start a calculation run; compare the stability results with those in
the documentation;

.2 change several items of deadweight (tank weights and the cargo weight) sufficiently to change
the draught or displacement by at least 10%. The results should be reviewed to ensure that they differ
in a logical way from those of the approved test condition;

.3 revise the above modified load condition to restore the initial test condition and compare the
results. The relevant input and output data of the approved test condition should be replicated; and

.4 alternatively, one or more test conditions should be selected and the test calculations
performed by entering all deadweight data for each selected test condition into the program as if it
were a proposed loading. The results should be verified as identical to the results in the approved copy
of the test conditions.

4.1.9 Periodical testing

4.1.9.1 It is the responsibility of the ship’s master to check the accuracy of the stability instrument at each
annual survey by applying at least one approved test condition. If an Administration.s representative is not
present for the stability instrument check, a copy of the test condition results obtained by this check should be
retained on board as documentation of satisfactory testing for the Administration.s representative.s
verification.

4.1.9.2 At each renewal survey this checking for all approved test loading conditions should be done in the
presence of the Administration.s representative.

4.1.9.3 The testing procedure should be carried out in accordance with paragraph 4.1.8.

4.1.10 Other requirements

4.1.10.1 Protection against unintentional or unauthorized modification of programs and data should be
provided.

4.1.10.2 The program should monitor operation and activate an alarm when the program is incorrectly or
abnormally used.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 47/83

4.1.10.3 The program and any data stored in the system should be protected from corruption by loss of
power.

4.1.10.4 Error messages with regard to limitations such as filling a compartment beyond capacity or more
than once, or exceeding the assigned load line, etc., should be included.

4.1.10.5 If any software related to stability measures such as sea keeping abilities of the vessel, evaluation of
in-service inclining experiments and processing the results for further calculation, as well as the evaluation of
roll period measurements is installed on board, such software should be reported to the Administration for
consideration.

4.1.10.6 Program functionalities should include mass and moment calculations with numerical and graphical
presentation of the results, such as initial stability values, righting lever curve, areas under the righting lever
curve and range of stability.

4.1.10.7 All input data from automatically measuring sensors, such as gauging devices or draught reading
systems should be presented to the user for verification. The user should have the possibility to override
faulty readings manually.

Chapter 5
Operational provisions against capsizing

5.1 General precautions against capsizing

5.1.1 Compliance with the stability criteria does not ensure immunity against capsizing, regardless of the
circumstances, or absolve the master from his responsibilities. Masters should therefore exercise prudence
and good seamanship having regard to the season of the year, weather forecasts and the navigational zone
and should take the appropriate action as to speed and course warranted by the prevailing circumstances. *

5.1.2 Care should be taken that the cargo allocated to the ship is capable of being stowed so that
compliance with the criteria can be achieved. If necessary, the amount should be limited to the extent that
ballast weight may be required.

5.1.3 Before a voyage commences, care should be taken to ensure that the cargo, cargo handling cranes
and sizeable pieces of equipment have been properly stowed or lashed so as to minimize the possibility of
both longitudinal and lateral shifting, while at sea, under the effect of acceleration caused by rolling and
pitching. †

5.1.4 A ship, when engaged in towing operations, should possess an adequate reserve of stability to
withstand the anticipated heeling moment arising from the tow line without endangering the towing ship. Deck
cargo on board the towing ship should be so positioned as not to endanger the safe working of the crew on
deck or impede the proper functioning of the towing equipment and be properly secured. Tow line
arrangements should include towing springs and a method of quick release of the tow.

5.1.5 The number of partially filled or slack tanks should be kept to a minimum because of their adverse
effect on stability. The negative effect on stability of filled pool tanks should be taken into consideration.

5.1.6 The stability criteria contained in part A chapter 2 set minimum values, but no maximum values are

*
Refer to the Revised Guidance to the master for avoiding dangerous situations in adverse weather and sea conditions
(MSC.1/Circ.1228).
†
Refer to the Guidelines for the preparation of the Cargo Securing Manual (MSC/Circ.745).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 48/83

recommended. It is advisable to avoid excessive values of metacentric height, since these might lead to
acceleration forces which could be prejudicial to the ship, its complement, its equipment and to safe carriage
of the cargo. Slack tanks may, in exceptional cases, be used as a
means of reducing excessive values of metacentric height. In such cases, due consideration should be given
to sloshing effects.

5.1.7 Regard should be paid to the possible adverse effects on stability where certain bulk cargoes are
carried. In this connection, attention should be paid to the IMO Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes.

5.2 Operational precautions in heavy weather

5.2.1 All doorways and other openings, through which water can enter into the hull or deckhouses,
forecastle, etc., should be suitably closed in adverse weather conditions and accordingly all appliances for
this purpose should be maintained on board and in good condition.

5.2.2 Weathertight and watertight hatches, doors, etc., should be kept closed during navigation, except
when necessarily opened for the working of the ship and should always be ready for immediate closure and
be clearly marked to indicate that these fittings are to be kept closed except for access. Hatch covers and
flush deck scuttles in fishing vessels should be kept properly
secured when not in use during fishing operations. All portable deadlights should be maintained in good
condition and securely closed in bad weather.

5.2.3 Any closing devices provided for vent pipes to fuel tanks should be secured in bad weather.

5.2.4 Fish should never be carried in bulk without first being sure that the portable divisions in the holds are
properly installed.

5.3 Ship handling in heavy weather

5.3.1 In all conditions of loading necessary care should be taken to maintain a seaworthy freeboard.

5.3.2 In severe weather, the speed of the ship should be reduced if propeller emergence, shipping of water
on deck or heavy slamming occurs.

5.3.3 Special attention should be paid when a ship is sailing in following, quartering or head seas because
dangerous phenomena such as parametric resonance, broaching to, reduction of stability on the wave crest,
and excessive rolling may occur singularly, in sequence or simultaneously in a multiple combination, creating
a threat of capsize. A ship’s speed and/or course should be altered appropriately to avoid the above-
mentioned phenomena. *

5.3.4 Reliance on automatic steering may be dangerous as this prevents ready changes to course which may
be needed in bad weather.

5.3.5 Water trapping in deck wells should be avoided. If freeing ports are not sufficient for the drainage of
the well, the speed of the ship should be reduced or the course changed, or both. Freeing ports provided with
closing appliances should always be capable of functioning and are not to be locked.

5.3.6 Masters should be aware that steep or breaking waves may occur in certain areas, or in certain wind
and current combinations (river estuaries, shallow water areas, funnel shaped bays, etc.). These waves are

*
Refer to the Revised Guidance to the master for avoiding dangerous situations in adverse weather and sea conditions
(MSC.1/Circ.1228).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 49/83

particularly dangerous, especially for small ships.

5.3.7 In severe weather, the lateral wind pressure may cause a considerable angle of heel. If anti-heeling
measures (e.g., ballasting, use of anti-heeling devices, etc.) are used to compensate for heeling due to wind,
changes of the ship’s course relative to the wind direction may lead to dangerous angles of heel or capsizing.
Therefore, heeling caused by the wind should not be compensated with anti-heeling measures, unless,
subject to the approval by the Administration, the vessel has been proven by calculation to have sufficient
stability in worst case conditions (i.e. improper or incorrect use, mechanism failure, unintended course
change, etc.). Guidance on the use of anti-heeling measures should be provided in the stability booklet.

5.3.8 Use of operational guidelines for avoiding dangerous situations in severe weather conditions or an on-
board computer based system is recommended. The method should be simple to use.

5.3.9 High-speed craft should not be intentionally operated outside the worst intended conditions and
limitations specified in the relevant certificates, or in documents referred to therein.

Chapter 6
Icing Considerations

6.1 General

6.1.1 For any ship operating in areas where ice accretion is likely to occur, adversely affecting a ship’s
stability, icing allowances should be included in the analysis of conditions of loading.

6.1.2 Administrations are advised to take icing into account and are permitted to apply national standards
where environmental conditions are considered to warrant a higher standard than those recommended in the
following sections.

6.2 Cargo ships carrying timber deck cargoes

6.2.1 The master should establish or verify the stability of his ship for the worst service condition, having
regard to the increased weight of deck cargo due to water absorption and/or ice accretion and to variations in
consumables. *

6.2.2 When timber deck cargoes are carried and it is anticipated that some formation of ice will take place,
an allowance should be made in the arrival condition for the additional weight.

6.3 Fishing vessels

The calculations of loading conditions for fishing vessels (refer to 3.4.2.8) should, where appropriate, include
allowance for ice accretion, in accordance with the following provisions.

6.3.1 Allowance for ice accretion †

For vessels operating in areas where ice accretion is likely to occur, the following icing allowance should be
made in the stability calculations:

.1 30 kg per square metre on exposed weather decks and gangways;

*
Refer to regulation 44(10) of the 1966 Load Line Convention and regulation 44(7) of the 1988 Load Line Protocol as
amended.
†
Refer to regulation III/8 of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 50/83

.2 7.5 kg per square metre for projected lateral area of each side of the vessel above the water
plane;

.3 the projected lateral area of discontinuous surfaces of rail, sundry booms, spars (except masts)
and rigging of vessels having no sails and the projected lateral area of other small objects should be
computed by increasing the total projected area of continuous surfaces by 5% and the static moments
of this area by 10%. Vessels intended for operation in areas where ice is known to occur should be;

.4 designed to minimize the accretion of ice; and

.5 equipped with such means for removing ice as the Administration may require; for example,
electrical and pneumatic devices, and/or special tools such as axes or wooden clubs for removing ice
from bulwarks, rails and erections.

6.3.2 Guidance relating to ice accretion

In the application of the above standards, the following icing areas should apply:

.1 the area north of latitude 65° 30΄ N, between longitude 28° W and the west coast of Iceland;
north of the north coast of Iceland; north of the rhumb line running from latitude 66° N, longitude 15° W
to latitude 73° 30΄ N, longitude 15° E, north of
latitude 73° 30΄ N between longitude 15° E and 35° E, and east of longitude 35° E, as well as north of
latitude 56° N in the Baltic Sea;

.2 the area north of latitude 43° N bounded in the west by the North American coast and the east
by the rhumb line running from latitude 43° N, longitude 48° W to latitude 63° N, longitude 28° W and
thence along longitude 28° W;

.3 all sea areas north of the North American Continent, west of the areas defined in 6.3.2.1 and
6.3.2.2;

.4 the Bering and Okhotsk Seas and the Tartary Strait during the icing season; and

.5 south of latitude 60° S.

A chart to illustrate the areas is attached at the end of this chapter. For vessels operating in areas where ice
accretion may be expected:

.6 within the areas defined in 6.3.2.1, 6.3.2.3, 6.3.2.4 and 6.3.2.5 known to having icing conditions
significantly different from those described in 6.3.1, ice accretion requirements of one half to twice the
required allowance may be applied; and

.7 within the area defined in 6.3.2.2, where ice accretion in excess of twice the allowance required
by 6.3.1 may be expected, more severe requirements than those given in 6.3.1 may be applied.

6.3.3 Brief survey of the causes of ice formation and its influence upon the seaworthiness of the
vessel

6.3.3.1 The skipper of a fishing vessel should bear in mind that ice formation is a complicated process which
depends upon meteorological conditions, condition of loading and behaviour of the vessel in stormy weather
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 51/83

as well as on the size and location of superstructures and rigging. The most common cause of ice formation is
the deposit of water droplets on the vessels structure. These droplets come from spray driven from wave
crests and from ship-generated spray.

6.3.3.2 Ice formation may also occur in conditions of snowfall, sea fog (including arctic sea smoke), a drastic
fall in ambient temperature, as well as from the freezing of drops of rain on impact with the vessels structure.

6.3.3.3 Ice formation may sometimes be caused or accentuated by water shipped on board and retained on
deck.

6.3.3.4 Intensive ice formation generally occurs on stem, bulwark and bulwark rail, front walls of
superstructures and deck-houses, hawse holes, anchors, deck gear, forecastle deck and upper deck, freeing
ports, aerials, stays, shrouds, masts and spars.

6.3.3.5 It should be borne in mind that the most dangerous areas as far as ice formation is concerned are the
sub-Arctic regions.

6.3.3.6 The most intensive ice formation takes place when wind and sea come from ahead. In beam and
quartering winds, ice accumulates quicker on the windward side of the vessel, thus leading to a constant list
which is extremely dangerous.

6.3.3.7 Listed below are meteorological conditions causing the most common type of ice formation due to
spraying of a vessel. Examples of the weight of ice formation on a typical fishing vessel of displacement in the
range 100 t to 500 t are also given. For larger vessels the weight will be correspondingly greater.

6.3.3.8 Slow accumulations of ice take place:

.1 at ambient temperature from -1°C to -3°C and any wind force;

.2 at ambient temperature -4°C and lower and wind force from 0 m/s to 9 m/s; and

.3 under the conditions of precipitation, fog or sea mist followed by a drastic fall of the ambient
temperature.

Under all these conditions the intensity of ice accumulation may not exceed 1.5 t/h.

6.3.3.9 At ambient temperature of -4°C to -8°C and wind force 10 m/s to 15 m/s, rapid accumulation of ice
takes place. Under these conditions the intensity of ice accumulation can lie within the range 1.5 t/h to 4 t/h.

6.3.3.10 Very fast accumulation of ice takes place:

.1 at ambient temperature of -4°C and lower and wind forces of 16 m/s and over; and

.2 at ambient temperature -9°C and lower and wind force 10 m/s to 15 m/s.

Under these conditions the intensity of ice accumulation can exceed 4 t/h.

6.3.3.11 The skipper should bear in mind that ice formation adversely affects the seaworthiness of the vessel
as ice formation leads to:

.1 an increase in the weight of the vessel due to accumulation of ice on the vessels surfaces
which causes the reduction of freeboard and buoyancy;
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 52/83

.2 a rise of the vessel’s centre of gravity due to the high location of ice on the vessel’s structures
with corresponding reduction in the level of stability;

.3 an increase of windage area due to ice formation on the upper parts of the vessel and hence
an increase in the heeling moment due to the action of the wind;

.4 a change of trim due to uneven distribution of ice along the vessels length;

.5 the development of a constant list due to uneven distribution of ice across the breadth of the
vessel; and

.6 impairment of the manoeuvrability and reduction of the speed of the vessel.

6.3.4 Operational procedures related to ensuring a fishing vessels endurance in conditions of ice formation
are given in annex 2 (Recommendations for skippers of fishing vessels on ensuring a vessel’s endurance in
conditions of ice formation).

6.4 Offshore supply vessels 24 m to 100 m in length

For vessels operating in areas where ice accretion is likely to occur:

.1 no shutters should be fitted in the freeing ports; and

.2 with regard to operational precautions against capsizing, reference is made to the

recommendations for skippers of fishing vessels on ensuring a vessel’s endurance in conditions of ice
formation, as given in paragraph 6.3.3 and in annex 2 (Recommendations for skippers of fishing
vessels on ensuring a vessel’s endurance in conditions of ice formation).
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 53/83

Chapter 7
Considerations for watertight and weathertight integrity

7.1 Hatchways

7.1.1 Cargo and other hatchways in ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966,
applies should comply with regulations 13, 14, 15, 16 and 26(5) of this Convention.

7.1.2 Hatchways in fishing vessels to which the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol applies should comply with
regulations II/5 and II/6 of this Protocol.

7.1.3 In decked fishing vessels of 12 m in length and over but less than 24 m in length hatchways should
comply with the following:

7.1.3.1 All hatchways should be provided with covers and those which may be opened during fishing
operations should normally be arranged near to the vessel’s centreline.

7.1.3.2 For the purpose of strength calculations it should be assumed that hatchway covers other than wood
are subject to static load of 10 kN/m2 or the weight of cargo intended to be carried on them, whichever is the
greater.

7.1.3.3 Where covers are constructed of mild steel, the maximum stress according to 7.1.3.2 multiplied by
4.25 should not exceed the minimum ultimate strength of the material. Under these loads the deflections
should not be more than 0.0028 times the span.

7.1.3.4 Covers made of materials other than mild steel or wood should be at least of equivalent strength to
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 54/83

those made of mild steel and their construction should be of sufficient stiffness to ensure weathertightness
under the loads specified in 7.1.3.2.

7.1.3.5 Covers should be fitted with clamping devices and gaskets or other equivalent arrangements sufficient
to ensure weathertightness.

7.1.3.6 The use of wooden hatchway covers is generally not recommended in view of the difficulty of rapidly
securing their weathertightness. However, where fitted they should be capable of being secured weathertight.

7.1.3.7 The finished thickness of wood hatchway covers should include an allowance for abrasion due to
rough handling. In any case, the finished thickness of these covers should be at least 4 mm for each 100 mm
of unsupported span subject to a minimum of 40 mm and the width of their bearing surfaces should be at
least 65 mm.

7.1.3.8 The height above deck of hatchway coamings on exposed parts of the working deck should be at least
300 mm for vessels of 12 m in length and at least 600 mm for vessels of 24 m in length. For vessels of
intermediate length the minimum height should be obtained by linear interpolation. The height above deck of
hatchway coamings on exposed parts of the superstructure deck should be at least 300 mm.

7.1.3.9 Where operating experience has shown justification and on approval of the competent authority the
height of hatchway coamings, except those which give direct access to machinery spaces may be reduced
from the height as specified in 7.1.3.8 or the coamings may be omitted entirely, provided that efficient
watertight hatch covers other than wood are fitted. Such hatchways should be kept as small as practicable
and the covers should be permanently attached by hinges or equivalent means and be capable of being
rapidly closed or battened down.

7.2 Machinery space openings

7.2.1 In ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating
thereto as amended, as applicable, applies, machinery space openings should comply with regulation 17.

7.2.2 In fishing vessels to which the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol applies and in new decked fishing vessels
of 12 m in length and over, but less than 24 m in length, the following requirements of regulation II/7 of this
Protocol should be met:

.1 machinery space openings should be framed and enclosed by casings of a strength equivalent
to the adjacent superstructure. External access openings therein should be fitted with doors complying
with the requirements of regulation II/4 of the Protocol or, in vessels less than 24 m in length, with
hatch covers other than wood complying with the requirements of 7.1.3 of this chapter; and

.2 openings other than access openings should be fitted with covers of equivalent strength to the
unpierced structure, permanently attached thereto and capable of being closed weathertight.

7.2.3 In offshore supply vessels, access to the machinery space should, if possible, be arranged within the
forecastle. Any access to the machinery space from the exposed cargo deck should be provided with two
weathertight closures. Access to spaces below the exposed cargo deck should preferably be from a position
within or above the superstructure deck.

7.3 Doors

7.3.1 In passenger ships to which the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, applies,
doors should comply with regulations II-l/13 and 16 of this Convention.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 55/83

7.3.2 In ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating
thereto, as amended, as applicable, applies, doors should comply with regulation 12 of this Convention.

7.3.3 In fishing vessels to which the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol applies, doors should comply with
regulation II/2 and regulation II/4 of this Protocol.

7.3.4 In decked fishing vessels of 12 m in length and over but less than 24 m in length:

.1 Watertight doors may be of the hinged type and should be capable of being operated locally
from each side of the door. A notice should be attached to the door on each side stating that the door
should be kept closed at sea.

.2 All access openings in bulkheads of enclosed deck erections, through which water could enter
and endanger the vessel, should be fitted with doors permanently attached to the bulkhead, framed
and stiffened so that the whole structure is of equivalent strength to the unpierced structure, and
weathertight when closed, and means should be provided so that they can be operated from each side
of the bulkhead.

.3 The height above deck of sills in those doorways, companionways, deck erections and
machinery casings situated on the working deck and on superstructure decks which give direct access
to parts of that deck exposed to the weather and sea should be at least equal to the height of
hatchway coamings as specified in 7.1.3.8.

.4 Where operating experience has shown justification and on approval of the competent
authority, the height above deck of sills in the doorways specified in 7.3.4.3 except those giving direct
access to machinery spaces, may be reduced to not less than 150 mm on superstructure decks and
not less than 380 mm on the working deck for vessels 24 m in length, or not less than 150 mm on the
working deck for vessels of 12 m in length. For vessels of intermediate length the minimum acceptable
reduced height for sills in doorways on the working deck should be obtained by linear interpolation.

7.4 Cargo ports and other similar openings

7.4.1 Cargo ports and other similar openings in ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines,
1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended, as applicable, applies should comply with
regulation 21 of this Convention.

7.4.2 Openings through which water can enter the vessel and fish flaps on stern trawlers in fishing vessels
to which the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol applies should comply with regulation II/3 of this Protocol.

7.4.3 Cargo port and other similar openings in passenger ships to which the International Convention for the
Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 applies should comply with regulations II-1/15, 17 and 22 of this Convention. In
addition, such openings in ro-ro passenger ships to which this Convention applies, should comply with
regulation II-1/17-1 of this Convention.

7.4.4 Cargo port and other similar openings in cargo ships to which the International Convention for the
Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 applies should comply with regulation II-1/15-1 of this Convention.

7.5 Sidescuttles, window scuppers, inlets and discharges

7.5.1 In passenger ships to which the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 applies,
openings in shell plating below the bulkhead deck should comply with regulation II-1/15 of this Convention.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 56/83

Watertight integrity above the bulkhead deck should comply with regulation II-1/17 of this Convention. In
addition, in ro-ro passenger ships, watertight integrity below the bulkhead deck should comply with regulation
II-1/23 and integrity of the hull and superstructure should comply with regulation II-1/17-1 of this Convention.

7.5.2 In ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating
thereto, as amended, as applicable, applies, scuppers, inlets and discharges should comply with regulation
22 and sidescuttles should comply with regulation 23 of this Convention.

7.5.3 In fishing vessels to which the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol applies, sidescuttles and windows should
comply with regulation II/12 and inlets and discharges should comply with regulation II/13 of this Protocol.

7.5.4 In decked fishing vessels of 12 m in length and over but less than 24 m in length, sidescuttles,
windows and other openings and inlets and discharges should comply with the following:

.1 sidescuttles to spaces below the working deck and to enclosed spaces on the working deck
should be fitted with hinged deadlights capable of being closed watertight;

.2 sidescuttles should be fitted in a position such that their sills are above a line drawn parallel to
the working deck at side having its lowest point 500 mm above the deepest operating waterline;

.3 sidescuttles, together with their glasses and deadlights, should be of substantial construction to
the satisfaction of the competent authority;

.4 skylights leading to spaces below the working deck should be of substantial construction and
capable of being closed and secured weathertight, and with provision for adequate means of closing in
the event of damage to the inserts. Skylights leading to machinery spaces should be avoided as far as
practicable;

.5 toughened safety glass or suitable permanently transparent material of equivalent strength

should be fitted in all wheelhouse windows exposed to the weather. The means of securing windows
and the width of the bearing surfaces should be
adequate, having regard to the window material used. Openings leading to spaces below deck from a
wheelhouse whose windows are not provided with the protection required by 0 should be fitted with a
weathertight closing appliance;

.6 deadlights or a suitable number of storm shutters should be provided where there is no other
method of preventing water from entering the hull through a broken window or sidescuttle;

.7 the competent authority may accept sidescuttles and windows without deadlights in side or aft
bulkheads of deck erections located on or above the working deck if satisfied that the safety of the
vessel will not be impaired;

.8 the number of openings in the sides of the vessel below the working deck should be the
minimum compatible with the design and proper working of the vessel and such openings should be
provided with closing arrangements of adequate strength to ensure watertightness and the structural
integrity of the surrounding structure;

.9 discharges led through the shell either from spaces below the working deck or from spaces
within deck erections should be fitted with efficient and accessible means for preventing water from
passing inboard. Normally each separate discharge should have an automatic non-return valve with a
positive means of closing it from a readily accessible position. Such a valve is not required if the
competent authority considers that the entry of water into the vessel through the opening is not likely to
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 57/83

lead to dangerous flooding and that the thickness of the closing should be provided with an indicator
showing whether the valve is open or closed. The open inboard end of any discharge system should
be above the deepest operating waterline at an angle of heel satisfactory to the competent authority;

.10 in machinery spaces main and auxiliary sea inlets and discharges essential for the operation of
machinery should be controlled locally. Controls should be readily accessible and should be provided
with indicators showing whether the valves are open or closed. Suitable warning devices should be
incorporated to indicate leakage of water into the space; and

.11 fittings attached to the shell and all valves should be of steel, bronze or other ductile material.
All pipes between the shell and valves should be of steel, except that in vessels constructed of
material other than steel, other suitable materials may be used.

7.5.5 In cargo ships to which the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 applies,
external openings should comply with regulation II-1/15-1 of this Convention.

7.6 Other deck openings

7.6.1 Miscellaneous openings in freeboard and superstructure decks in ships to which the International
Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended, as applicable, applies
should comply with regulation 18 of this Convention.

7.6.2 In decked fishing vessels of 12 m and over where it is essential for fishing operations, flush deck
scuttles of the screw, bayonet or equivalent type and manholes may be fitted provided these are capable of
being closed watertight and such devices should be permanently attached to the adjacent structure. Having
regard to the size and disposition of the openings and the design of the closing devices, metal-to-metal
closures may be fitted if they are effectively watertight. Openings other than hatchways, machinery space
openings, manholes and flush scuttles in the working or superstructure deck should be protected by enclosed
structures fitted with weathertight doors or their equivalent. Companionways should be situated as close as
practicable to the centreline of the vessel. *

7.7 Ventilators, air pipes and sounding devices

7.7.1 Ventilators in ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988
relating thereto, as amended, as applicable, applies should comply with regulation 19 and air pipes should
comply with regulation 20 of this Convention.

7.7.2 Ventilators in fishing vessels to which the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol applies should comply with
regulation II/9 and air pipes should comply with regulation II/10 of this Protocol. Sounding devices should
comply with regulation II/11 of this Protocol.

7.7.3 Ventilators and air pipes in fishing vessels of 12 m in length and over but less than 24 m in length
should comply with the following:

.1 ventilators should have coamings of substantial construction and should be capable of being
closed weathertight by devices permanently attached to the ventilator or adjacent structure. Ventilators
should be arranged as close to the vessel’s centreline as possible and, where practicable, should
extend through the top of a deck erection or companionway;

.2 the coamings of ventilators should be as high as practicable. On the working deck the height

*
Refer to regulation II/8 of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 58/83

above deck of coamings of ventilators, other than machinery space ventilators, should be not less than
760 mm and on superstructure decks not less than 450 mm. When the height of such ventilators may
interfere with the working of the vessel their coaming heights may be reduced to the satisfaction of the
competent authority. The height above deck of machinery space ventilator openings should be to the
satisfaction of the competent authority;

.3 closing appliances need not be fitted to ventilators the coamings of which extend more than 2.5
m above the working deck or more than 1.0 m above a deck-house top or superstructure deck;

.4 where air pipes to tanks or other spaces below deck extend above the working or
superstructure decks the exposed parts of the pipes should be of substantial construction and, as far
as is practicable, located close to the vessel’s centreline and protected from damage by fishing or
lifting gear. Openings of such pipes should be protected by efficient means of closing, permanently
attached to the pipe or adjacent structure, except that where the competent authority is satisfied that
they are protected against water trapped on deck, these means of closing may be omitted; and

.5 where air pipes are situated near the side of the vessel their height above deck to the point
where water may have access below should be at least 760 mm on the working deck and at least 450
mm on the superstructure deck. The competent authority may accept reduction of the height of an air
pipe to avoid interference with the fishing operations.

7.7.4 In offshore supply vessels air pipes and ventilators should comply with the following:

.1 air pipes and ventilators should be fitted in protected positions in order to avoid damage by
cargo during operations and to minimize the possibility of flooding. Air pipes on the exposed cargo and
forecastle decks should be fitted with automatic closing devices; and

.2 due regard should be given to the position of machinery space ventilators. Preferably they
should be fitted in a position above the superstructure deck, or above an equivalent level if no
superstructure deck is fitted.

7.8 Freeing ports

7.8.1 Where bulwarks on the weather portion of the freeboard or superstructure decks or, in fishing vessels,
the working decks form wells, freeing ports should be arranged along the length of the bulwark as to ensure
that the deck is freed of water most rapidly and effectively. Lower edges of freeing ports should be as near the
deck as practicable. *

7.8.2 In ships to which the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating
thereto as amended, as applicable, applies, freeing ports should comply with regulation 24 of this Convention.

7.8.3 In decked fishing vessels of 12 m in length and over, freeing ports should comply with the following † .

7.8.3.1 The minimum freeing port area A in m², on each side of the vessel for each well on the working deck,
should be determined in relation to the length l and height of bulwark in the well as follows:

.1 A=K*l

*
Refer to regulation 24(5) of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 as amended, as
applicable and regulation 11/14(4) of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol.
†
Refer to regulation II/l4 of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 59/83

where:

K = 0.07 for vessels of 24 m in length and over

K = 0.035 for vessels of 12 m in length;

for intermediate lengths the value of K should be obtained by linear interpolation (l need not be taken
as greater than 70% of the vessel’s length);

.2 where the bulwark is more than 1.2 m in average height, the required area should be increased
by 0.004 m² per metre of length of well for each 0.1 m difference in height; and

.3 where the bulwark is less than 0.9 m in average height, the required area may be decreased by
0.004 m² per metre of length of well for each 0.1 m difference in height.

7.8.3.2 The freeing port area calculated according to 7.8.3.1 should be increased where the Administration or
competent authority considers that the vessel’s sheer is not sufficient to ensure rapid and effective freeing of
the deck of water.

7.8.3.3 Subject to the approval of the Administration or competent authority, the minimum freeing port area for
each well on the superstructure deck should be not less than one-half the area A given in 7.8.3.1 except that
where the superstructure deck forms a working deck for fishing operations the minimum area on each side
should be not less than 75% of the area A.

7.8.3.4 Freeing ports should be so arranged along the length of bulwarks as to provide the most rapid and
effective freeing of the deck from water. Lower edges of freeing ports should be as near the deck as
practicable.

7.8.3.5 Pound boards and means for stowage and working the fishing gear should be arranged so that the
effectiveness of the freeing ports will not be impaired or water trapped on deck and prevented from easily
reaching the freeing ports. Pound boards should be so constructed that they can be locked in position when in
use and will not hamper the discharge of shipped water.

7.8.3.6 Freeing ports over 0.3 m in depth should be fitted with bars spaced not more than 0.23 m nor less than
0.15 m apart or provided with other suitable protective arrangements. Freeing port covers, if fitted, should be
of approved construction. If devices are considered necessary for locking freeing port covers during fishing
operations they should be to the satisfaction of the competent authority and easily operable from a readily
accessible position.

7.8.3.7 In vessels intended to operate in areas subject to icing, covers and protective arrangements for freeing
ports should be capable of being easily removed to restrict ice accumulation. Size of opening and means
provided for removal of these protective arrangements should be to the satisfaction of the competent
authority.

7.8.3.8 In addition, in fishing vessels of 12 m in length and above but less than 24 m in length where wells or
cockpits are fitted in the working deck or superstructure deck with their bottoms above the deepest operating
waterline, efficient non-return means of drainage overboard should be provided. Where bottoms of such wells
or cockpits are below the deepest operating waterline,
drainage to the bilges should be provided.

7.8.4 In offshore supply vessels, the Administration should give special attention to adequate drainage of
pipe stowage positions, having regard to the individual characteristics of the vessel. However, the area
provided for drainage of the pipe stowage positions should be in excess of the required freeing port area in
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 60/83

the cargo deck bulwark and should not be fitted with shutters.

7.9 Miscellaneous

7.9.1 Ships engaged in towing operations should be provided with means for quick release of the towing
hawser.

Chapter 8
Determination of lightship parameters

8.1 Application

8.1.1 Every passenger ship regardless of size and every cargo ship having a length, as defined in the
International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 or the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended, as
applicable, of 24 m and upwards, should be inclined upon its completion and the elements of its stability
determined. *

8.1.2 The Administration may allow the inclining test of an individual ship as required by paragraph 8.1.1 to
be dispensed with provided basic stability data are available from the inclining test of a sister ship and it is
shown to the satisfaction of the Administration that reliable stability information for the exempted ship can be
obtained from such basic data. To be dispensed from an inclining test, the deviation of lightship mass is not to
exceed,

for L † < 50 m: 2% of the lightship mass of the lead ship or as given in the information on
stability;

for L > 160 m: 1% of the lightship mass of the lead ship or as given in the information on
stability;

for intermediate L: by linear interpolation,

and the deviation of the lightship’s longitudinal centre of gravity (LCG) referred to L should not be greater than
0.5% of the lightship’s LCG of the lead ship or as given in the information on stability regardless of the ship’s
length.

8.1.3 The Administration may allow the inclining test of an individual ship or class of ships especially
designed for the carriage of liquids or ore in bulk to be dispensed with when reference to existing data for
similar ships clearly indicates that due to the ship’s proportions and arrangements more than sufficient
metacentric height will be available in all probable loading conditions.

8.1.4 Where any alterations are made to a ship so as to materially affect the stability, the ship should be re-
inclined.

8.1.5 At periodic intervals not exceeding five years, a lightweight survey should be carried out on all
passenger ships to verify any changes in lightship displacement and longitudinal centre of gravity. The ship
should be re-inclined whenever, in comparison with the approved stability information, a deviation from the
lightship displacement exceeding 2% or a deviation of the longitudinal centre of gravity exceeding 1% of L is
found, or anticipated.
*
Refer to regulation II-1/5 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended.
†
For the purpose of paragraphs 8.1.2 and 8.1.5 the length (L) means the subdivision length (LS) as defined in regulation
II-1/2.1 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended. For ships to which the Convention applies, and for other ships the
length (L) means the length of ship as defined in 2.12 of the Purpose and Definitions of this Code.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 61/83

8.1.6 The inclining test prescribed is adaptable for ships with a length below 24 m if special precautions are
taken to ensure the accuracy of the test procedure.

8.2 Preparations for the inclining test

8.2.1 Notification of the Administration

Written notification of the inclining test should be sent to the Administration as it requires or in due time before
the test. An Administration representative should be present to witness the inclining test and the test results
be submitted for review.

The responsibility for making preparations, conducting the inclining test and lightweight survey, recording the
data, and calculating the results rests with the shipyard, owner or naval architect. While compliance with the
procedures outlined herein will facilitate an expeditious and accurate inclining test, it is recognized that
alternative procedures or . arrangements may be equally efficient. However, to minimize risk of delay, it is
recommended that all such variances be submitted to the Administration for review prior to the inclining test.

8.2.1.1 Details of notification

Written notification should provide the following information as the Administration may require:

.1 identification of the ship by name and shipyard hull number, if applicable;

.2 date, time, and location of the test;

.3 inclining weight data:

.1 type;

.2 amount (number of units and weight of each);

.3 certification;

.4 method of handling (i.e. sliding rail or crane);

.5 anticipated maximum angle of heel to each side;

.4 measuring devices:

.1 pendulums . approximate location and length;

.2 U-tubes . approximate location and length;

.3 inclinometers . location and details of approvals and calibrations;

.5 approximate trim;

.6 condition of tanks;

.7 estimated weights to deduct, to complete, and to relocate in order to place the ship in its true
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 62/83

lightship condition;

.8 detailed description of any computer software to be used to aid in calculations during the
inclining test; and

.9 name and telephone number of the person responsible for conducting the inclining test.

8.2.2 General condition of the ship

8.2.2.1 A ship should be as complete as possible at the time of the inclining test. The test should be
scheduled to minimize the disruption in the ship’s delivery date or its operational commitments.

8.2.2.2 The amount and type of work left to be completed (mass to be added) affect the accuracy of the
lightship characteristics, so good judgement should be used. If the mass or centre of gravity of an item to be
added cannot be determined with confidence, it is best to conduct the inclining test after the item is added.

8.2.2.3 Temporary material, tool boxes, staging, sand, debris, etc., on board should be reduced to absolute
minimum before the inclining test. Excess crew or personnel not directly involved in the inclining test should
be removed from on board the ship before the test.

8.2.2.4 Decks should be free of water. Water trapped on deck may shift and pocket in a fashion similar to
liquids in a tank. Any rain, snow or ice accumulated on the ship should be removed prior to the test.

8.2.2.5 The anticipated liquid loading for the test should be included in the planning for the test. Preferably, all
tanks should be empty and clean, or completely full. The number of slack tanks should be kept to an absolute
minimum. The viscosity of the fluid, the depth of the fluid and the shape of the tank should be such that the
free surface effect can be accurately determined.

8.2.2.6 The ship should be moored in a quiet, sheltered area free from extraneous forces such as propeller
wash from passing vessels, or sudden discharges from shore side pumps. The tide conditions and the trim of
the ship during the test should be considered. Prior to the test, the depth of water should be measured and
recorded in as many locations as are necessary to ensure that the ship will not contact the bottom. The
specific gravity of water should be accurately recorded. The ship should be moored in a manner to allow
unrestricted heeling. The access ramps should be removed. Power lines, hoses, etc., connected to shore
should be at a minimum, and kept slack at all times.

8.2.2.7 The ship should be as upright as possible; with inclining weights in the initial position, up to one-half
degree of list is acceptable. The actual trim and deflection of keel, if practical, should be considered in the
hydrostatic data. In order to avoid excessive errors caused by significant changes in the water plane area
during heeling, hydrostatic data for the actual trim and the maximum anticipated heeling angles should be
checked beforehand.

8.2.2.8 The total weight used should be sufficient to provide a minimum inclination of one degree and a
maximum of four degrees of heel to each side. The Administration may, however, accept a smaller inclination
angle for large ships provided that the requirements on pendulum deflection or U-tube difference in height in
8.2.2.9 are complied with. Test weights should be compact and of such a configuration that the vertical centre
of gravity of the weights can be accurately determined. Each weight should be marked with an identification
number and its mass. Re-certification of the test weights should be carried out prior to the incline. A crane of
sufficient capacity and reach, or some other means, should be available during the inclining test to shift
weights on the decking in an expeditious and safe manner. Water ballast transfer may be carried out, when it
is impractical to incline using solid weights if acceptable to the Administration.
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 63/83

8.2.2.9 The use of three pendulums is recommended but a minimum of two should be used to allow
identification of bad readings at any one pendulum station. They should each be located in an area protected
from the wind. One or more pendulums may be substituted by other measuring devices (U-tubes or
inclinometers) at the discretion of the Administration. Alternative measuring devices should not be used to
reduce the minimum inclining angles recommended in 8.2.2.8. The use of an inclinometer or U-tube should
be considered in each separate case. It is recommended that inclinometers or other measuring devices only
be used in conjunction with at least one pendulum.

8.2.2.10 Efficient two-way communications should be provided between central control and the weight
handlers and between central control and each pendulum station. One person at a central control station
should have complete control over all personnel involved in the test.

8.3 Plans required

The person in charge of the inclining test should have available a copy of the following plans at the time of the
inclining test:

.1 lines plan;

.2 hydrostatic curves or hydrostatic data;

.3 general arrangement plan of decks, holds, inner bottoms, etc.;

.4 capacity plan showing capacities and vertical and longitudinal centres of gravity of cargo
spaces, tanks, etc. When ballast water is used as inclining weight, the transverse and vertical centres
of gravity for the applicable tanks for each angle of inclination, must be available;

.5 tank sounding tables;

.6 draught mark locations; and

.7 docking drawing with keel profile and draught mark corrections (if available).

8.4 Test procedure

8.4.1 Procedures followed in conducting the inclining test and lightweight survey should be in accordance
with the recommendations laid out in annex 1 (Detailed guidance for the conduct of an inclining test) to this
Code.

8.4.1.1 Freeboard/draught readings should be taken to establish the position of the waterline in order to
determine the displacement of the ship at the time of the inclining test. It is recommended that at least five
freeboard readings, approximately equally spaced, be taken on each side of the ship or that all draught marks
(forward, midship and aft) be read on each side of the ship. Draught/ freeboard readings should be read
immediately before or immediately after the inclining test.

8.4.1.2 The standard test employs eight distinct weight movements. Movement No.8, a recheck of the zero
point, may be omitted if a straight line plot is achieved after movement No.7. If a straight line plot is achieved
after the initial zero and six weight movements, the inclining test is complete and the second check at zero
may be omitted. If a straight line plot is not achieved, those weight movements that did not yield acceptable
plotted points should be repeated or explained.

8.4.2 A copy of the inclining data should be forwarded to the Administration along with the calculated results
 IS Code 2008
Part B page 64/83

of the inclining test in an acceptable report format, if required.

8.4.3 All calculations performed during the inclining test and in preparation of an inclining test report may be
carried out by a suitable computer program. Output generated by such a program may be used for
presentation of all or partial data and calculations included in the test report if it is clear, concise, well
documented, and generally consistent in form and content with Administration requirements.

8.5 Inclining test for MODUs

8.5.1 An inclining test should be required for the first unit of a design, when as near to completion as
possible, to determine accurately the lightship data (weight and position of centre of gravity).

8.5.2 For successive units which are identical by design, the lightship data of the first unit of the series may
be accepted by the Administration in lieu of an inclining test, provided the difference in lightship displacement
or position of centre of gravity due to weight changes for minor differences in machinery, outfitting or
equipment, confirmed by the results of a deadweight survey, are less than 1% of the values of the lightship
displacement and principal horizontal dimensions as determined for the first of the series. Extra care should
be given to the detailed weight calculation and comparison with the original unit of a series of column-
stabilized, semi-submersible types as these, even though identical by design, are recognized as being
unlikely to attain an acceptable similarity of weight or centre of gravity to warrant a waiver of the inclining test.

8.5.3 The results of the inclining test, or deadweight survey and inclining experiment adjusted for weight
differences, should be indicated in the Operating Manual.

8.5.4 A record of all changes to machinery, structure, outfit and equipment that affect the lightship data,
should be maintained in the Operating Manual or a lightship data alterations log and be taken into account in
daily operations.

8.5.5 For column-stabilized units, a deadweight survey should be conducted at intervals not exceeding five
years. Where the deadweight survey indicates a change from the calculated lightship displacement in excess
of 1% of the operating displacement, an inclining test should be conducted.

8.5.6 An inclining test or a deadweight survey should be carried out in the presence of an officer of the
Administration, or a duly authorized person or representative of an approved organization.

8.6 Stability test for pontoons

An inclining experiment is not normally required for a pontoon, provided a conservative value of the lightship
vertical centre of gravity (KG) is assumed for the stability calculations. The KG can be assumed at the level of
the main deck although it is recognized that a lesser value could be acceptable if fully documented. The
lightship displacement and longitudinal centre of gravity should be determined by calculation based on
draught and density readings.
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 65/83

Annex 1
Detailed guidance for the conduct of an inclining test

1 Introduction

This annex supplements the inclining standards put forth in part B, chapter 8 (Determination of lightship
parameters) of this Code. This annex contains important detailed procedures for conducting an inclining test
in order to ensure that valid results are obtained with maximum precision at a minimal cost to owners,
shipyards and the Administration. A complete understanding of the correct procedures used to perform an
inclining test is imperative in order to ensure that the test is conducted properly and so that results can be
examined for accuracy as the inclining experiment is conducted.

2 Preparations for the inclining test

2.1 Free surface and tankage

2.1.1 If there are liquids on board the ship when it is inclined, whether in the bilges or in the tanks, they will
shift to the low side when the ship heels. This shift of liquids will exaggerate the heel of the ship. Unless the
exact weight and distance of liquid shifted can be precisely calculated, the metacentric height (GM) calculated
from the inclining test will be in error. Free surface should be minimized by emptying the tanks completely and
making sure all bilges are dry; or by completely filling the tanks so that no shift of liquid is possible. The latter
method is not the optimum because air pockets are difficult to remove from between structural members of a
tank, and the weight and centre of the liquid in a full tank should be accurately determined in order to adjust
the lightship values accordingly. When tanks must be left slack, it is desirable that the sides of the tanks be
parallel vertical planes and the tanks be regular in shape (i.e. rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.) when viewed from
above, so that the free surface moment of the liquid can be accurately determined. For example, the free
surface moment of the liquid in a tank with parallel vertical sides can be readily calculated by the formula:

Mfs = l*b³*ρt/12 (mt)

where:

l = length of tank (m)

b = breadth of tank (m)

ρt = specific gravity of liquid in tank (t/m³)

Free surface
correction =

where:

Mfs = free surface moment (mt)

Δ = displacement (t)

Free surface correction is independent of the height of the tank in the ship, location of the tank, and direction
of heel. As the width of the tank increases, the value of free surface moment increases by the third power.
The distance available for the liquid to shift is the predominant factor. This is why even the smallest amount of
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 66/83

liquid in the bottom of a wide tank or bilge is normally unacceptable and should be removed prior to the
inclining experiment. Insignificant amounts of liquids in V-shaped tanks or voids (e.g., a chain locker in the
bow), where the potential shift is negligible, may remain if removal of the liquid would be difficult or would
cause extensive delays.

When ballast water is used as inclining weight, the actual transverse and vertical movements of the liquid
should be calculated taking into account the change of heel of the ship. Free surface corrections as defined in
this paragraph should not apply to the inclining tanks.

2.1.2 Free surface and slack tanks: The number of slack tanks should normally be limited to one
port/starboard pair or one centreline tank of the following:

.1 fresh water reserve feed tanks;

.2 fuel/diesel oil storage tanks;

.3 fuel/diesel oil day tanks;

.4 lube oil tanks;

.5 sanitary tanks; or

.6 potable water tanks.

To avoid pocketing, slack tanks should normally be of regular (i.e. rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.) cross section
and be 20% to 80% full if they are deep tanks and 40% to 60% full if they are double-bottom tanks. These
levels ensure that the rate of shifting of liquid remains constant throughout the heel angles of the inclining
test. If the trim changes as the ship is inclined, then consideration should also be given to longitudinal
pocketing. Slack tanks containing liquids of sufficient viscosity to prevent free movement of the liquids, as the
ship is inclined (such as bunker at low temperature), should be avoided since the free surface cannot be
calculated accurately. A free surface correction for such tanks should not be used unless the tanks are heated
to reduce viscosity. Communication between tanks should never be allowed. Cross-connections, including
those via manifolds, should be closed. Equal liquid levels in slack tank pairs can be a warning sign of open
cross connections. A bilge, ballast, and fuel oil piping plan can be referred to, when checking for cross
connection closures.

2.1.3 Pressed-up tanks: “Pressed up” means completely full with no voids caused by trim or inadequate
venting. Anything less than 100% full, for example the 98% condition regarded as full for operational
purposes, is not acceptable. Preferably, the ship should be rolled from side to side to eliminate entrapped air
before taking the final sounding. Special care should be taken when pressing fuel oil tanks to prevent
accidental pollution. An example of a tank that would appear “pressed up”, but actually contains entrapped
air, is shown in figure A1-2.1.3.
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 67/83

Figure A1-2.1.3

2.1.4 Empty tanks: It is generally not sufficient to simply pump tanks until suction is lost. Enter the tank after
pumping to determine if final stripping with portable pumps or by hand is necessary. The exceptions are very
narrow tanks or tanks where there is a sharp deadrise, since free surface would be negligible. Since all empty
tanks should be inspected, all manholes should be open and the tanks well ventilated and certified as safe for
entry. A safe testing device should be on hand to test for sufficient oxygen and minimum toxic levels. A
certified marine chemist’s certificate certifying that all fuel oil and chemical tanks are safe for human entry
should be available, if necessary.

2.2 Mooring arrangements

The importance of good mooring arrangements cannot be overemphasized. The arrangement selections will
be dependent upon many factors. Among the most important are depth of water, wind and current effects.
Whenever possible, the ship should be moored in a quiet, sheltered area free from extraneous forces such as
propeller wash from passing ships, or sudden discharges from shore side pumps. The depth of water under
the hull should be sufficient to ensure that the hull will be entirely free of the bottom. The tide conditions and
the trim of the ship during the test should be considered. Prior to the test, the depth of water should be
measured and recorded in as many locations as necessary to ensure the ship will not contact the bottom. If
marginal, the test should be conducted during high tide or the ship moved to deeper water.

2.2.1 The mooring arrangement should ensure that the ship will be free to list without restraint for a sufficient
period of time to allow a satisfactory reading of the heeling angle, due to each weight shift, to be recorded.

2.2.2 The ship should be held by lines at the bow and the stern, attached to bollards and/or cleats on the
deck. If suitable restraint of the ship cannot be achieved using deck fittings, then temporary padeyes should
be attached as close as possible to the centreline of the ship and as near the waterline as practical. Where
the ship can be moored to one side only, it is good practice to supplement the bow and stern lines with two
spring lines in order to maintain positive control of the ship, as shown in figure A1-2.2.2. The leads of the
spring lines should be as long as practicable. Cylindrical camels should be provided between the ship and the
dock. All lines should be slack, with the ship free of the pier and camels, when taking readings.
 IS Code 2008
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Figure A1-2.2.2

2.2.2.1 If the ship is held off the pier by the combined effect of the wind and current, a superimposed heeling
moment will act on the ship throughout the test. For steady conditions this will not affect the results. Gusty
winds or uniformly varying wind and/or current will cause these superimposed heeling moments to change,
which may require additional test points to obtain a valid test. The need for additional test points can be
determined by plotting test points as they are obtained.

2.2.2.2 If the ship is pressed against the fenders by wind and/or current, all lines should be slack. The
cylindrical camels will prevent binding but there will be an additional superimposed heeling moment due to the
ship bearing against the camels. This condition should be avoided where possible but, when used,
consideration should be given to pulling the ship free of the dock and camels and letting the ship drift as
readings are taken.

2.2.2.3 Another acceptable arrangement is where the combined wind and current are such that the ship may
be controlled by only one line at either the bow or the stern. In this case, the control line should be led from on
or near the centreline of the ship with all lines but the control line slack, the ship is free to veer with the wind
and/or current as readings are taken. This can sometimes be troublesome because varying wind and/or
current can cause distortion of the plot.

2.2.3 The mooring arrangement should be submitted to the approval authority for review prior to the test.

2.2.4 If a floating crane is used for handling inclining weights, it should not be moored to the ship.

2.3 Test weights

2.3.1 Weights, such as porous concrete, that can absorb significant amounts of moisture should only be
used if they are weighed just prior to the inclining test or if recent weight certificates are presented. Each
weight should be marked with an identification number and its weight. For small ships, drums completely filled
with water may be used. Drums should normally be full and capped to allow accurate weight control. In such
cases, the weight of the drums should be verified in the presence of the Administration representative using a
recently calibrated scale.

2.3.2 Precautions should be taken to ensure that the decks are not overloaded during weight movements. If
deck strength is questionable then a structural analysis should be performed to determine if existing framing
can support the weight.

2.3.3 Generally, the test weights should be positioned as far outboard as possible on the upper deck. The
test weights should be on board and in place prior to the scheduled time of the inclining test.
 IS Code 2008
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2.3.4 Where the use of solid weights to produce the inclining moment is demonstrated to beimpracticable,
the movement of ballast water may be permitted as an alternative method. This acceptance would be granted
for a specific test only, and approval of the test procedure by the Administration is required. As a minimal
prerequisite for acceptability, the following conditions
should be required:

.1 inclining tanks should be wall-sided and free of large stringers or other internal members that
create air pockets. Other tank geometries may be accepted at the discretion of the Administration;

.2 tanks should be directly opposite to maintain ship’s trim;

.3 specific gravity of ballast water should be measured and recorded;

.4 pipelines to inclining tanks should be full. If the ship’s piping layout is unsuitable for internal
transfer, portable pumps and pipes/hoses may be used;

.5 blanks must be inserted in transfer manifolds to prevent the possibility of liquids being .leaked.
during transfer. Continuous valve control must be maintained during the test;

.6 all inclining tanks must be manually sounded before and after each shift;

.7 vertical, longitudinal and transverse centres should be calculated for each movement;

.8 accurate sounding/ullage tables must be provided. The ship’s initial heel angle should be
established prior to the incline in order to produce accurate values for volumes and transverse and
vertical centres of gravity for the inclining tanks at every angle of heel. The draught marks amidships
(port and starboard) should be used when establishing the initial heel angle;

.9 verification of the quantity shifted may be achieved by a flow meter or similar device; and

.10 the time to conduct the inclining must be evaluated. If time requirements for transfer of liquids
are considered too long, water may be unacceptable because of the possibility of wind shifts over long
periods of time.

2.4 Pendulums

2.4.1 The pendulums should be long enough to give a measured deflection, to each side of upright, of at
least 15 cm. Generally, this will require a pendulum length of at least 3 m. It is recommended that pendulum
lengths of 4 to 6 m be used. Usually, the longer the pendulum the greater the accuracy of the test; however, if
excessively long pendulums are used on a tender ship the pendulums may not settle down and the accuracy
of the pendulums would then be questionable. On large ships with high GM, pendulum lengths in excess of
the length recommended above may be required to obtain the minimum deflection. In such cases, the trough,
as shown in figure A1-2.4.6, should be filled with high-viscosity oil. If the pendulums are of different lengths,
the possibility of collusion between station recorders is avoided.

2.4.2 On smaller ships, where there is insufficient headroom to hang long pendulums, the 15 cm deflection
should be obtained by increasing the test weight so as to increase the heel. On most ships the typical
inclination is between one and four degrees.

2.4.3 The pendulum wire should be piano wire or other monofilament material. The top connection of the
pendulum should afford unrestricted rotation of the pivot point. An example is that of a washer with the
pendulum wire attached suspended from a nail.
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 70/83

2.4.4 A trough filled with a liquid should be provided to dampen oscillations of the pendulum after each
weight movement. It should be deep enough to prevent the pendulum weight from touching the bottom. The
use of a winged plumb bob at the end of the pendulum wire can also help to dampen the pendulum
oscillations in the liquid.

2.4.5 The battens should be smooth, light-coloured wood, 1 to 2 cm thick, and should be securely fixed in
position so that an inadvertent contact will not cause them to shift. The batten should be aligned close to the
pendulum wire but not in contact with it.

2.4.6 A typical satisfactory arrangement is shown in figure A1-2.4.6. The pendulums may be placed in any
location on the ship, longitudinally and transversely. The pendulums should be in place prior to the scheduled
time of the inclining test.

2.4.7 It is recommended that inclinometers or other measuring devices only be used in conjunction with at
least one pendulum. The Administration may approve an alternative arrangement when this is found
impractical.

Figure A1-2.4.6

2.5 U-tubes

2.5.1 The legs of the device should be securely positioned as far as outboard as possible and should be
parallel to the centreline plane of the ship. The distance between the legs should be measured perpendicular
to the centreline plane. The legs should be vertical, as far as practical.

2.5.2 Arrangements should be made for recording all readings at both legs. For easy reading and checking
for air pockets, clear plastic tube or hose should be used throughout. The U-tube should be pressure-tested
prior to the inclining test to ensure watertightness.
 IS Code 2008
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2.5.3 The horizontal distance between the legs of the U-tube should be sufficient to obtain a level difference
of at least 15 cm between the upright and the maximum inclination to each side.

2.5.4 Normally, water would be used as the liquid in the U-tube. Other low-viscosity liquids may also be
considered.

2.5.5 The tube should be free of air pockets. Arrangements should be made to ensure that the free flow of
the liquid in the tube is not obstructed.

2.5.6 Where a U-tube is used as a measuring device, due consideration should be given to the prevailing
weather conditions (see 4.1.1.3):

.1 if the U-tube is exposed to direct sunlight, arrangements should be made to avoid temperature
differences along the length of the tube;

.2 if temperatures below 0°C are expected, the liquid should be a mixture of water and an anti-
freeze additive; and

.3 where heavy rain squalls can be expected, arrangements should be made to avoid additional
water entering the U-tube.

2.6 Inclinometers

The use of inclinometers should be subject to at least the following recommendations:

.1 the accuracy should be equivalent to that of the pendulum;

.2 the sensitivity of the inclinometer should be such that the non-steady heeling angle of the ship
can be recorded throughout the measurement;

.3 the recording period should be sufficient to accurately measure the inclination. The recording
capacity should be generally sufficient for the whole test;

.4 the instrument should be able to plot or print the recorded inclination angles on paper;

.5 the instrument should have linear performance over the expected range of inclination angles;

.6 the instrument should be supplied with the manufacturer.s instructions giving details of
calibration, operating instructions, etc.; and

.7 it should be possible to demonstrate the required performance to the satisfaction of the

Administration during the inclining test.

3 Equipment required

Besides the physical equipment necessary such as the inclining weights, pendulums, small boat, etc., the
following are necessary and should be provided by or made available to the person in charge of the inclining:

.1 engineering scales for measuring pendulum deflections (rules should be subdivided sufficiently
to achieve the desired accuracy;
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 72/83

.2 sharp pencils for marking pendulum deflections;

.3 chalk for marking the various positions of the inclining weights;

.4 a sufficiently long measuring tape for measuring the movement of the weights and locating
different items on board;

.5 a sufficiently long sounding tape for sounding tanks and taking freeboard readings;

.6 one or more well maintained specific gravity hydrometers with range sufficient to cover 0.999 to
1.030, to measure the specific gravity of the water in which the ship is floating (a hydrometer for
measuring specific gravity of less than 1.000 may be needed in some locations);

.7 other hydrometers as necessary to measure the specific gravity of any liquids on board;

.8 graph paper to plot inclining moments versus tangents;

.9 a straight edge to draw the measured waterline on the lines drawing;

.10 a pad of paper to record data;

.11 an explosion-proof testing device to check for sufficient oxygen and absence of lethal gases in
tanks and other closed spaces such as voids and cofferdams;

.12 a thermometer; and

.13 draught tubes (if necessary).

4 Test procedure

The inclining experiment, the freeboard/draught readings and the survey may be conducted in any order and
still achieve the same results. If the person conducting the inclining test is confident that the survey will show
that the ship is in an acceptable condition and there is the possibility of the weather becoming unfavourable,
then it is suggested that the inclining be performed first and the survey last. If the person conducting the test
is doubtful that the ship is complete enough for the test, it is recommended that the survey be performed first
since this could invalidate the entire test, regardless of the weather conditions. It is very important that all
weights, the number of people on board, etc., remain constant throughout the test.

4.1 Initial walk through and survey

The person responsible for conducting the inclining test should arrive on board the ship well in advance of the
scheduled time of the test to ensure that the ship is properly prepared for the test. If the ship to be inclined is
large, a preliminary walk through may need to be done the day preceding the actual incline. To ensure the
safety of personnel conducting the walk through, and to improve the documentation of surveyed weights and
deficiencies, at least two persons should make the initial walk through. Things to check include: all
compartments are open, clean, and dry, tanks are well ventilated and gas-free, movable or suspended items
are secured and their position documented, pendulums are in place, weights are on board and in place, a
crane or other method for moving weights is available, and the necessary plans and equipment are available.
Before beginning the inclining test, the person conducting the test should:

.1 consider the weather conditions. The combined adverse effect of wind, current and sea may
result in difficulties or even an invalid test due to the following:
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 73/83

.1 inability to accurately record freeboards and draughts;

.2 excessive or irregular oscillations of the pendulums;

.3 variations in unavoidable superimposed heeling moments.

In some instances, unless conditions can be sufficiently improved by moving the ship to a
better location, it may be necessary to delay or postpone the test. Any significant quantities of
rain, snow, or ice should be removed from the ship before the test. If bad weather conditions
are detected early enough and the weather forecast does not call for improving conditions, the
Administration representative should be advised prior to departure from the office and an
alternative date scheduled;

.2 make a quick overall survey of the ship to make sure the ship is complete enough to conduct
the test and to ensure that all equipment is in place. An estimate of items which will be outstanding at
the time of the inclining test should be included as part of any test procedure submitted to the
Administration. This is required so that the Administration representative can advise the shipyard/naval
architect if in their opinion the ship will not be sufficiently complete to conduct the incline and that it
should be rescheduled. If the condition of the ship is not accurately depicted in the test procedure and
at the time of the inclining test the Administration representative considers that the ship is in such
condition that an accurate incline cannot be conducted, the representative may refuse to accept the
incline and require that the incline be conducted at a later date;

.3 enter all empty tanks after it is determined that they are well ventilated and gas-free to ensure
that they are dry and free of debris. Ensure that any pressed-up tanks are indeed full and free of air
pockets. The anticipated liquid loading for the incline should be included in the procedure required to
be submitted to the Administration;

.4 survey the entire ship to identify all items which need to be added to the ship, removed from the
ship, or relocated on the ship to bring the ship to the lightship condition. Each item should be clearly
identified by weight and vertical and longitudinal location. If necessary, the transverse location should
also be recorded. The inclining weights, the pendulums, any temporary equipment and dunnage, and
the people on board during the inclining test are all among the weights to be removed to obtain the
lightship condition. The person calculating the lightship characteristics from the data gathered during
the incline and survey and/or the person reviewing the inclining test may not have been present during
the test and should be able to determine the exact location of the items from the data recorded and the
ship’s drawings. Any tanks containing liquids should be accurately sounded and the soundings
recorded;

.5 it is recognized that the weight of some items on board, or that are to be added, may have to
be estimated. If this is necessary, it is in the best interest of safety to be on the safe side when
estimating, so the following rules of thumb should be followed:

.1 when estimating weights to be added:

.1.1 estimate high for items to be added high in the ship; and

.1.2 estimate low for items to be added low in the ship;

.2 when estimating weights to be removed:

 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 74/83

.2.1 estimate low for items to be removed from high in the ship; and

.2.2 estimate high for items to be removed from low in the ship;

.3 when estimating weights to be relocated:

.3.1 estimate high for items to be relocated to a higher point in the ship; and

.3.2 estimate low for items to be relocated to a lower point in the ship.

4.2 Freeboard/draught readings

4.2.1 Freeboard/draught readings should be taken to establish the position of the waterline in order to
determine the displacement of the ship at the time of the inclining test. It is recommended that at least five
freeboard readings, approximately equally spaced, be taken on each side of the ship or that all draught marks
(forward, midship, and aft) be read on each side of the ship. Draught mark readings should be taken to assist
in determining the waterline defined by freeboard readings, or to verify the vertical location of draught marks
on ships where their location has not been confirmed. The locations for each freeboard reading should be
clearly marked. The longitudinal location along the ship should be accurately determined and recorded since
the (moulded) depth at each point will be obtained from the ship’s lines. All freeboard measurements should
include a reference note clarifying the inclusion of the coaming in the measurement and the coaming height.

4.2.2 Draught and freeboard readings should be read immediately before or immediately after the inclining
test. Weights should be on board and in place and all personnel who will be on board during the test,
including those who will be stationed to read the pendulums, should be on board and in location during these
readings. This is particularly important on small ships. If readings are made after the test, the ship should be
maintained in the same condition as during the test. For small ships, it may be necessary to counterbalance
the list and trim effects of the freeboard measuring party. When possible, readings should be taken from a
small boat.

4.2.3 A small boat should be available to aid in the taking of freeboard and draught mark readings. It should
have low freeboard to permit accurate observation of the readings.

4.2.4 The specific gravity of the flotation water should be determined at this time. Samples should be taken
from a sufficient depth of the water to ensure a true representation of the flotation water and not merely
surface water, which could contain fresh water from run-off of rain. A hydrometer should be placed in a water
sample and the specific gravity read and recorded. For large ships, it is recommended that samples of the
flotation water be taken forward, midship, and aft and the readings averaged. For small ships, one sample
taken from midships should be sufficient. The temperature of the water should be taken and the measured
specific gravity corrected for deviation from the standard, if necessary. A correction to water specific gravity is
not necessary if the specific gravity is determined at the inclining experiment site. Correction is necessary if
specific gravity is measured when sample temperature differs from the temperature at the time of the inclining
(e.g., if check of specific gravity is done at the office).

4.2.5 A draught mark reading may be substituted for a given freeboard reading at that longitudinal location if
the height and location of the mark have been verified to be accurate by a keel survey while the ship was in
dry dock.

4.2.6 A device, such as a draught tube, can be used to improve the accuracy of freeboard/draught readings
by damping out wave action.

4.2.7 The dimensions given on a ship’s lines drawing are normally moulded dimensions. In the case of
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 75/83

depth, this means the distance from the inside of the bottom shell to the inside of the deck plate. In order to
plot the ship’s waterline on the lines drawing, the freeboard readings should be converted to moulded
draughts. Similarly, the draught mark readings should be corrected from extreme (bottom of keel) to moulded
(top of keel) before plotting. Any discrepancy between the freeboard/draught readings should be resolved.

4.2.8 The mean draught (average of port and starboard readings) should be calculated for each of the
locations where freeboard/draught readings are taken and plotted on the ship’s lines drawing or outboard
profile to ensure that all readings are consistent and together define the correct waterline. The resulting plot
should yield either a straight line or a waterline which is either hogged or sagged. If inconsistent readings are
obtained, the freeboards/draughts should be retaken.

4.3 The incline

4.3.1 Prior to any weight movements the following should be checked:

.1 the mooring arrangement should be checked to ensure that the ship is floating freely (this
should be done just prior to each reading of the pendulums);

.2 the pendulums should be measured and their lengths recorded. The pendulums should be
aligned so that when the ship heels, the wire will be close enough to the batten to ensure an accurate
reading but will not come into contact with the batten. The typical satisfactory arrangement is shown in
figure A1-2.4.6;

.3 the initial position of the weights is marked on the deck. This can be done by tracing the outline
of the weights on the deck;

.4 the communications arrangement is adequate; and

.5 all personnel are in place.

4.3.2 A plot should be run during the test to ensure that acceptable data are being obtained. Typically, the
abscissa of the plot will be heeling moment W(x) (weight times distance x) and the ordinate will be the tangent
of the heel angle (deflection of the pendulum divided by the length of the pendulum). This plotted line does
not necessarily pass through the origin or any other particular point for no single point is more significant than
any other point. A linear regression analysis is often used to fit the straight line. The weight movements
shown in figure A2-4.3.2-1 give a good spread of points on the test plot.
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 76/83

Figure A1-4.3.2-1

The plotting of all the readings for each of the pendulums during the inclining experiment aids in the discovery
of bad readings. Since W(x)/tan φ should be constant, the plotted line should be straight. Deviations from a
straight line are an indication that there were other moments acting on the ship during the inclining. These
other moments should be identified, the cause corrected, and the weight movements repeated until a straight
line is achieved. Figures A1-4.3.2-2 to A1-4.3.2-5 illustrate examples of how to detect some of these other
moments during the inclining, and a recommended solution for each case. For simplicity, only the average of
the readings is shown on the inclining plots.
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 77/83

Figure A1-4.3.2-2 Figure A1-4.3.2-3

Figure A1-4.3.2-4 Figure A1-4.3.2-5

4.3.3 Once everything and everyone is in place, the zero position should be obtained and the remainder of
the experiment conducted as quickly as possible, while maintaining accuracy and proper procedures, in order
 IS Code 2008
Annex 1 page 78/83

to minimize the possibility of a change in environmental conditions during the test.

4.3.4 Prior to each pendulum reading, each pendulum station should report to the control station when the
pendulum has stopped swinging. Then, the control station will give a “standby” warning and then a .mark.
command. When “mark” is given, the batten at each position should be marked at the location of the
pendulum wire. If the wire was oscillating slightly, the centre of the oscillations should be taken as the mark. If
any of the pendulum readers does not think the reading was a good one, the reader should advise the control
station and the point should be retaken for all pendulum stations. Likewise, if the control station suspects the
accuracy of a reading, it should be repeated for all the pendulum stations. Next to the mark on the batten
should be written the number of the weight movement, such as zero for the initial position and one to seven
for the weight movements.

4.3.5 Each weight movement should be made in the same direction, normally transversely, so as not to
change the trim of the ship. After each weight movement, the distance the weight was moved (centre to
centre) should be measured and the heeling moment calculated by multiplying the distance by the amount of
weight moved. The tangent is calculated for each pendulum by dividing the deflection by the length of the
pendulum. The resultant tangents are plotted on the graph. Provided there is good agreement among the
pendulums with regard to the tan φ value, the average of the pendulum readings may be graphed instead of
plotting each of the readings.

4.3.6 Inclining data sheets should be used so that no data are forgotten and so that the data are clear,
concise, and consistent in form and format. Prior to departing the ship, the person conducting the test and the
Administration representative should initial each data sheet as an indication of their concurrence with the
recorded data.
 IS Code 2008
Annex 2 page 79/83

Annex 2
Recommendations for skippers of fishing vessels on ensuring a
vessel’s endurance in conditions of ice formation

1 Prior to departure

1.1 Firstly, the skipper should, as in the case of any voyages in any season, ensure that the vessel is
generally in a seaworthy condition, giving full attention to basic requirements such as:

.1 loading of the vessel within the limits prescribed for the season (paragraph 1.2.1 below);

.2 weathertightness and reliability of the devices for closing cargo and access hatches, outer
doors and all other openings in the decks and superstructures of the vessel and the watertightness of
the sidescuttles and of ports or similar openings in the sides below the freeboard deck to be checked;

.3 condition of the freeing ports and scuppers as well as operational reliability of their closures to
be checked;

.4 emergency and life-saving appliances and their operational reliability;

.5 operational reliability of all external and internal communication equipment; and

.6 condition and operational reliability of the bilge and ballast pumping systems.

1.2 Further, with special regard to possible ice accretion, the skipper should:

.1 consider the most critical loading condition against approved stability documents with due
regard to fuel and water consumption, distribution of supplies, cargoes and fishing gear and with
allowance for possible ice accretion;

.2 be aware of the danger in having supplies and fishing gear stored on open weather deck
spaces due to their large ice accretion surface and high centre of gravity;

.3 ensure that a complete set of warm clothing for all members of the crew is available on the
vessel as well as a complete set of hand tools and other appliances for combating ice accretion, a
typical list thereof for small vessels is shown in section 4 of this annex;

.4 ensure that the crew is acquainted with the location of means for combating ice accretion, as
well as the use of such means, and that drills are carried out so that members of the crew know their
respective duties and have the necessary practical skills to ensure the vessel’s endurance under
conditions of ice accretion;

.5 acquaint himself with the meteorological conditions in the region of fishing grounds and en
route to the place of destination; study the synoptical maps of this region and weather forecasts; be
aware of warm currents in the vicinity of the fishing grounds, of the nearest coastline relief, of the
existence of protected bays and of the location of ice fields and their boundaries; and

.6 acquaint himself with the timetable of the radio stations transmitting weather forecasts and
warnings of the possibility of ice accretion in the area of the relevant fishing grounds.

2 At sea
 IS Code 2008
Annex 2 page 80/83

2.1 During the voyage and when the vessel is on the fishing grounds, the skipper should keep himself
informed on all long-term and short-term weather forecasts and should arrange for the following systematic
meteorological observations to be systematically recorded:

.1 temperatures of the air and of the sea surface;

.2 wind direction and force;

.3 direction and height of waves and sea state;

.4 atmospheric pressure, air humidity; and

.5 frequency of splashing per minute and the intensity of ice accumulation on different parts of the
vessel per hour.

2.2 All observed data should be recorded in the vessel’s log-book. The skipper should compare the
weather forecasts and icing charts with actual meteorological conditions, and should estimate the probability
of ice formation and its intensity.

2.3 When the danger of ice formation arises, the following measures should be taken without delay:

.1 all the means of combating ice formation should be ready for use;

.2 all the fishing operations should be stopped, the fishing gear should be taken on board and
placed in the under-deck spaces. If this cannot be done all the gear should be fastened for storm
conditions on its prescribed place. It is particularly dangerous to leave the fishing gear suspended
since its surface for ice formation is large and the point of suspension is generally located high;

.3 barrels and containers with fish, packing, all gear and supplies located on deck as well as
portable mechanisms should be placed in closed spaces as low as possible and firmly lashed;

.4 all cargoes in holds and other compartments should be placed as low as possible and firmly
lashed;

.5 the cargo booms should be lowered and fastened;

.6 deck machinery, hawser reels and boats should be covered with duck covers;

.7 lifelines should be fastened on deck;

.8 freeing ports fitted with covers should be brought into operative condition, all objects located
near scuppers and freeing ports and preventing water drainage from deck should be taken away;

.9 all cargo and companion hatches, manhole covers, weathertight outside doors in
superstructures and deck-houses and portholes should be securely closed in order to ensure complete
weathertightness of the vessel, access to the weather deck from inner compartments should be
allowed only through the superstructure deck;

.10 a check should be carried out as to whether the amount of water ballast on board and its
location is in accordance with that recommended in .Stability guidance to skippers.; if there is sufficient
freeboard, all the empty bottom tanks fitted with
ballast piping should be filled with seawater;
 IS Code 2008
Annex 2 page 81/83

.11 all fire-fighting, emergency and life-saving equipment should be ready for use;

.12 all drainage systems should be checked for their effectiveness;

.13 deck lighting and searchlights should be checked;

.14 a check should be carried out to make sure that each member of the crew has warm clothing;
and

.15 reliable two-way radio communication with both shore stations and other vessels should be
established; radio calls should be arranged for set times.

2.4 The skipper should seek to take the vessel away from the dangerous area, keeping in mind that the
lee edges of icefields, areas of warm currents and protected coastal areas are a good refuge for the vessel
during weather when ice formation occurs.

2.5 Small fishing vessels on fishing grounds should keep nearer to each other and to larger vessels.

2.6 It should be remembered that the entry of the vessel into an icefield presents certain danger to the
hull, especially when there is a high sea swell. Therefore the vessel should enter the icefield at a right angle
to the icefield edge at low speed without inertia. It is less dangerous to enter an icefield bow to the wind. If a
vessel must enter an icefield with the wind on the stern, the fact that the edge of the ice is more dense on the
windward side should be taken into consideration. It is important to enter the icefield at the point where the ice
floes are the smallest.

3 During ice formation

3.1 If in spite of all measures taken the vessel is unable to leave the dangerous area, all means available
for removal of ice should be used as long as it is subjected to ice formation.

3.2 Depending on the type of vessel, all or many of the following ways of combating ice formation
may be used:

.1 removal of ice by means of cold water under pressure;

.2 removal of ice with hot water and steam; and

.3 breaking up of ice with ice crows, axes, picks, scrapers, or wooden sledge-hammers and
clearing it with shovels.

3.3 When ice formation begins, the skipper should take into account the recommendations listed below
and ensure their strict fulfilment:

.1 report immediately ice formation to the shipowner and establish with him constant radio
communication;

.2 establish radio communication with the nearest vessels and ensure that it is maintained;

.3 do not allow ice formation to accumulate on the vessel, immediately take steps to remove from
the vessel’s structures even the thinnest layer of ice and ice sludge from the upper deck;
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Annex 2 page 82/83

.4 check constantly the vessel’s stability by measuring the roll period of the vessel during ice
formation. If the rolling period increases noticeably, immediately take all possible measures in order to
increase the vessel’s stability;

.5 ensure that each member of the crew working on the weather deck is warmly dressed and
wears a safety line securely attached to the guardrail;

.6 bear in mind that the work of the crew on ice clearing entails the danger of frost-bite. For this
reason it is necessary to make sure that members of the crew working on deck are replaced
periodically;

.7 keep the following structures and gears of the vessel first free from ice:

.7.1 aerials;

.7.2 running and navigational lights;

.7.3 freeing ports and scuppers;

.7.4 lifesaving craft;

.7.5 stays, shrouds, masts and rigging;

.7.6 doors of superstructures and deck-houses; and

.7.7 windlass and hawse holes;

.8 remove the ice from large surfaces of the vessel, beginning with the upper structures (such as
bridges, deck-houses, etc.), because even a small amount of ice on them causes a drastic worsening
of the vessel’s stability;

.9 when the distribution of ice is not symmetrical and a list develops, the ice must be cleared from
the lower side first. Bear in mind that any correction of the list of the vessel by pumping fuel or water
from one tank to another may reduce stability during the process when both tanks are slack;

.10 when a considerable amount of ice forms on the bow and a trim appears, ice must be quickly
removed. Water ballast may be redistributed in order to decrease the trim;

.11 clear ice from the freeing ports and scuppers in due time in order to ensure free drainage of the
water from the deck;

.12 check regularly for water accumulation inside the hull;

.13 avoid navigating in following seas since this may drastically worsen the vessel’s stability;

.14 register in the vessel’s log-book the duration, nature and intensity of ice formation, amount of
ice on the vessel, measures taken to combat ice formation and their effectiveness; and

.15 if, in spite of all the measures taken to ensure the vessel’s endurance in conditions of ice
formation, the crew is forced to abandon the vessel and embark on life-saving craft (lifeboats, rafts)
then, in order to preserve their lives, it is necessary to do all possible to provide all the crew with warm
clothing or special bags as well as to have a sufficient number of lifelines and bailers for speedy bailing
 IS Code 2008
Annex 2 page 83/83

out of water from the life-saving craft.

4 List of equipment and hand tools

A typical list of equipment and hand tools required for combating ice formation:

.1 ice crows or crowbars;

.2 axes with long handles;

.3 picks;

.4 metal scrapers;

.5 metal shovels;

.6 wooden sledge-hammers;

.7 fore and aft lifelines to be rigged each side of the open deck fitted with travellers to which
lizards can be attached.

Safety belts with spring hooks should be provided for no less than 50% of the members of the crew (but not
less than 5 sets), which can be attached to the lizards.

Notes: 1 The number of hand tools and lifesaving appliances may be increased, at the
shipowner’s discretion.

2 Hoses which may be used for ice combating should be readily available on board.