What is changing?As well as several administrative changes there is a change to the required loading conditions. Currently the grain code requires three loading conditions:Filled compartments, trimmed – the bulk grain shall be trimmed so as to fill all spaces under the decks and hatch covers to the maximum extent possible.Filled compartments, untrimmed - the bulk grain shall be filled to the maximum extent possible in way of the hatch opening but may be at its natural angle of repose outside the periphery of the hatch opening.Partly filled compartments - refers to any cargo space wherein the bulk grain is not loaded in the manner prescribed the other two conditions.The amendment adds a fourth optional loading condition:Specially suitable compartment, partly filled in way of the hatch opening, with ends untrimmed.Essentially this allows for the grain under the cross deck to be untrimmed, the differences are shown here:Current partly filled loading condition:The new optional partly filled loading condition:What does this mean to members?Whilst the amended condition is not mandatory if members wish to carry grain in this newly outlined condition it will need to feature in the vessel’s grain loading manual. Members would in this case need to approach their flag / classification society to insert and approve these amendments.The IMO resolution MSC.552(108) in full can be read here