The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Maritime and Corporate Registries recently published a paper entitled Marpol Annex VI – 0.50% Gobal Fuel Oil Sulphur Limit – Update and Regulatory Perspective to address the new IMO MARPOL sulphur regulations due to take effect in 2020.
Nick Makar, Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, International Registries, Inc. (IRI) summarized the paper, “…being aware of the uncertainties and challenges associated with the implementation of the 0.50% global fuel oil sulphur standard, a consistent approach is needed to safely address these challenges, while not delaying the enforcement of the standard after it takes effect. Planning and preparation by all stakeholders is crucial for effective compliance and to preserve the smooth flow of maritime trade.”
Owners should consider that “with a heavy focus on protecting the safe and efficient operation of the ship, carry out a Risk Assessment, ship by ship, following the MEPC (Marine Environment Protection Committee) approved guidance on ship implementation planning.”
While underwriters, “would be wise to the best practices employed by their clients, they should engage with them and understand the technicalities involved, working closely with owners to get a clear picture of the difficulties that could be faced from refinery to the ship, with sampling, testing and management of fuels on board from tanks through to the engine(s).”
Click here to read or download the entire report.
