What is Documents of Authorization as per Grain code?
Documents of Authorization as per the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk (Grain Code)
The Grain Code (commonly called the IMO Grain Code) is a mandatory international regulation adopted under International Maritime Organization (IMO). It applies to ships carrying grain cargoes in bulk and focuses mainly on stability requirements to prevent shifting of grain at sea.
One of the most important requirements under the Grain Code is the Document of Authorization (DoA).
1️⃣ What is a Document of Authorization (DoA)?
A Document of Authorization is an official certificate issued by or on behalf of a ship’s flag Administration confirming that:
- The ship complies with the Grain Code
- The ship is suitable to carry grain in bulk
- The ship has approved grain loading stability data
- The ship meets required stability criteria
Without this document, a ship cannot legally carry grain cargo in bulk internationally.
2️⃣ Legal Basis
The requirement for the Document of Authorization comes under:
- SOLAS Convention (Chapter VI – Carriage of Cargoes)
- International Grain Code (mandatory under SOLAS)
All ships carrying grain in bulk must comply with:
- Stability requirements
- Heeling moment calculations
- Approved loading instructions
3️⃣ Why is the Document of Authorization Required?
Grain cargo is dangerous because:
- It shifts during rolling
- It creates a free surface effect
- It reduces stability
- It can cause capsizing
Several historical accidents led IMO to introduce strict stability requirements.
The DoA ensures:
✔ The ship’s structure is suitable
✔ Stability calculations are approved
✔ Grain loading procedures are followed
✔ Safety of crew, ship, and cargo
4️⃣ Who Issues the Document of Authorization?
The DoA is issued by:
- The ship’s Flag State Administration, or
- A Recognized Organization (RO) (usually a Classification Society) acting on behalf of the Administration
Examples of classification societies:
- Lloyd’s Register
- DNV
- American Bureau of Shipping
5️⃣ Types of Ships That Require It
The Document of Authorization is required for:
- Bulk carriers
- General cargo ships
- Any ship carrying grain in bulk
It is NOT required for:
- Bagged grain
- Containerized grain
- Packaged cargo
It applies only to bulk grain cargo such as:
- Wheat
- Corn
- Rice
- Barley
- Oats
- Soybeans
6️⃣ What Does the Document of Authorization Contain?
The Document of Authorization includes:
📄 1. Ship Identification
- Ship name
- IMO number
- Port of registry
- Gross tonnage
- Deadweight
📄 2. Confirmation of Compliance
Statement confirming compliance with the Grain Code.
📄 3. Approved Grain Loading Manual
Reference to approved:
- Grain loading booklet
- Stability calculations
- Grain heeling moment data
📄 4. Operating Limitations
- Maximum permissible grain heeling moment
- Required GM values
- Loading restrictions
7️⃣ Grain Loading Manual (Attached to DoA)
Every ship must have an approved Grain Loading Manual, which includes:
- Stability information
- Grain heeling moment calculations
- Sample loading conditions
- Instructions for trimming and securing grain
- Tables for calculating stability
The Master uses this manual before loading grain.
8️⃣ Stability Requirements Under the Grain Code
To obtain the Document of Authorization, the ship must meet:
✔ Angle of heel due to grain shift ≤ 12°
✔ Minimum residual stability
✔ Minimum GM after grain shift
✔ Adequate range of stability
If these criteria are not met, grain cannot be loaded.
9️⃣ Endorsement & Validity
- Usually issued with no expiry date
- Remains valid as long as:
- Ship structure unchanged
- Stability data unchanged
- Flag remains same
It may be withdrawn if:
- Ship modified
- Stability altered
- Non-compliance found
🔟 Inspection by Port State Control
Port State Control officers may check:
- Valid Document of Authorization
- Approved Grain Loading Manual
- Calculations for current voyage
If missing:
❌ Ship may be detained
❌ Cargo loading stopped
1️⃣1️⃣ Survey Requirements
Before issuance, the ship undergoes:
- Stability verification
- Document review
- Structural suitability check
Survey carried out by:
- Flag Administration
- Authorized Classification Society
1️⃣2️⃣ Difference Between Grain Code & IMSBC Code
Do not confuse with:
- International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code
IMSBC Code covers:
- Coal
- Iron ore
- Bauxite
- Other bulk solids
Grain Code specifically covers:
- Grain in bulk only
1️⃣3️⃣ Sample Statement in a Document of Authorization
Typical wording:
“This is to certify that the ship has been found to comply with the requirements of the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk.”
1️⃣4️⃣ Master’s Responsibility
Even with a valid Document of Authorization:
The Master must:
- Calculate grain heeling moment
- Ensure compliance before sailing
- Maintain approved loading conditions
- Ensure trimming of cargo
The DoA does not remove Master’s responsibility.
1️⃣5️⃣ Summary
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Required for | Ships carrying grain in bulk |
| Issued by | Flag State / RO |
| Based on | SOLAS Chapter VI |
| Main Purpose | Ensure stability during grain carriage |
| Must carry onboard | Document of Authorization + Grain Loading Manual |
| Without it | Ship cannot carry grain |