The International Maritime Organization approved by means of Resolution A.287 (VIII) the "Code of Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck Cargoes" and amended it in 1978.

The Code contains a series of recommendations, additional to the requirements of Chapter IV of the International Load Line Convention, 1966, for the safe carriage of timber deck cargoes. Following these recommendations may help avoid some serious casualties which have occurred in the past.

It is expected that Masters of Panamanian vessels carrying timber deck cargoes, in keeping with the principles of good seamanship, become familiar with the provisions of the Code, carry one copy on board and follow its recommendations.

April 1992

Inquiries concerning the subject of this Circular should be directed to:
Directorate of Consular and Maritime Affairs, New York Representative Office,
Republic of Panama, 1180 Avenue of the Americas, 23rd Floor
New York, New York 10036, U.S.A.