Section 273

Bulk carriers of 150 metres in length and upwards of single side skin construction, carrying solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m3 and above, shall comply with the requirements of this' regulation in accordance with the implementation schedule specified in regulation 270.

The transverse watertight bulkhead between the 2 foremost cargo holds and the double bottom of the foremost cargo hold shall have sufficient strength to withstand flooding of the foremost cargo hold, taking also into account dynamic effects resulting from the presence of water in the hold, in compliance with the bulk carrier bulkhead and double bottom strength standards. For the purpose of this regulation, the bulk carrier bulkhead and double bottom strength standards shall be treated as mandatory.

In considering the need for, and the extent of, strengthening of the transverse watertight bulkhead or double bottom to meet the requirements of sub-regulation (2), the following restrictions may be taken into account -

For bulk carriers using either of, or both, the restrictions given in sub-regulation (3) for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of sub-regulation (2L these restrictions shall be complied with whenever solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1, 780 kg/m3 and above are carried.

This regulation applies to bulk carriers constructed before 1st. July,