1.1 This document is intended to provide guidance
to ships' crews and terminal personnel with respect to the principal
areas on bulk carriers that are likely to be susceptible to corrosion
or damage.
1.2 Under the Guidance, it is considered the responsibility
of the owner to maintain and, where necessary, report on deficient
conditions found, together with any repair(s) carried out. This document
is intended to provide guidance to personnel not experienced in conducting
inspections. To facilitate effective discharge of this responsibility
and recognizing the normal duties of ships' crews and terminal operators,
it has been thought desirable to provide them with a simple guide
that explains the areas of principal concern
1.3 In this connection, it should be understood
that the ships' crew and terminal operators may not be qualified in
the inspection of ships. It should also be recognized that such inspections
cannot in any way replace surveys conducted by flag States or recognized
organizations acting on their behalf.
1.4 This document is also considered as an appropriate
basis to assisting in the implementation of an effective programme
to maintain the ship in a satisfactory condition between the required
periodical surveys.