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2019 Amendments to the IBC/BCH Code and Annex II of MARPOL - reg.
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Annex II of MARPOL Amendments — Cargo residues and tank washings
Amendments introduce prewash requirements for certain high-viscosity or low-melting-point persistent floating products in specific areas. Prewash residue/water mixture must be discharged to a reception facility at the port of unloading.
- Affected Products: Fish oil, Olive oil, Palm oil, Paraffin wax highly-refined, Rice bran oil, Sunflower seed oil, etc. (See Annexure A for complete list)
- Compliance: Ship-owner/manager to submit revised P&A manual to recognized organization for approval
2. IBC/BCH Code Amendments — Carriage requirements
Amendments revise carriage requirements for various products, affecting the range of products a ship is certified to carry.
- Changes: Enhanced preventive measures, controlled venting, inerting, temperature class enhancement, closed gauging, H2S detection, foam extinguishers, separate piping systems, increased pollution hazard category
- Compliance: Ship-owner/manager to communicate with recognized organization, update Certificate of Fitness, or delete products from certificate if not compliant
3. OSVs Certified under LHNS Guidelines
Amendments impact OSVs carrying noxious liquid substances in bulk. Existing OSVs certified under LHNS Guidelines cannot carry toxic products like Methyl Alcohol, Hydrochloric acid, Sodium Silicate Solution, and Toluene after 01 January 2021.
- Compliance: Ship-owner/manager to communicate with recognized organization, update Certificate of Fitness, or propose alternative compliance measures
This MS Notice comes into force with immediate effect and is issued with the approval of the Director General of Shipping and Additional Secretary to the Govt. of India.
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