International Code on Intact Stability

The International Code on Intact Stability (IS Code) is the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standard for ship stability.^[1][2][3][4]

History

The Code for Intact Stability was first issued in 1993 under IMO resolution A.749(18)).^[1]

In 2008, the Code was updated by the IMO.^[1]

In December 2019, amendments to the Code were adopted that entered into force on 1 January 2020.^[5] These amendments related to ships engaged in anchor handling operations and to ships carrying out lifting and towing operations.^[5]

Content

The Code contains both mandatory regulations and recommended provisions, setting out the minimum stability standards for ships.^[6] This includes information on precautions against capsizing, metacentric heights (GM), righting levers (GZ), rolling criteria, Free surface effect and watertight integrity.^[1]

The 2008 version of the Code details guidelines on Second Generation Intact Stability for ships, specifically criteria for dynamic stability and damage assessment.^[7]

The Code is split into two parts. Part A contains mandatory criteria. Part B contains additional guidelines and recommendations.^[4] The Code requires each ship to have a stability book on the ship.^[4] For passenger ships, a regular survey is required.^[4]