Environmental Notations for ships are extremely important to make shippers follow environmental regulations. Keeping that in mind, the ABS group has published an environment notation guidelines.
Let’s take a look at it.
ENVIRO and NOx Tier III Notations
Vessels designed, constructed, and operated in compliance with the foundational requirements of this Section may be assigned the class notation ENVIRO, Environmental Protection. Vessels in compliance with higher-level requirements may be assigned the class notation ENVIRO+, Environmental Protection Plus.
Certification and Documentation (1 June 2020)
The following certification and documentation are required, as applicable, to receive the Environmental Protection, ENVIRO, notation:
i) Documentation verifying compliance with the ABS requirements for the class notation ACC or ACCU (See 2/9.1)
ii) Safety Management Certificate in accordance with the International Safety Management Code(ISM Code)
iii) Documentation verifying a contract with the ABS Rapid Response Damage Assessment (RRDA)program, or with a similar program of another IACS Member Society
iv) International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPPC)
v) International Pollution Prevention Certificate for the Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk (NLS Certificate)
vi) Certification for the sewage system, and where fitted, sewage treatment plant, in accordance with MARPOL 73/78 Annex IV or equivalent marine sanitation device of USCG regulations
vii) Documentation verifying compliance with the requirements in Annex V of MARPOL 73/78, Regulations for the prevention of pollution by garbage from ships.
viii) Documentation verifying compliance with the requirements in the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ship’s Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004
ix) International Anti-Fouling System Certificate
x) Declaration on Anti-Fouling System
xi) International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (IAPPC), or a statement indicating equivalent compliance by responsible organization in accordance with the Annex VI of MARPOL 73/78
xii) Incinerator type approval certificate in accordance with IMO Resolution MEPC.244(66),
Amendments to the Standard Specification for Shipboard Incinerators.
Operational Procedures
Documents to be Submitted for Review (1 June 2020)
The following documents are to be submitted for review:
i) Bilge water management plan
ii) Sewage management plan ABS GUIDE FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NOTATIONS FOR VESSELS • 2020 12
iii) Garbage management plan
iv) Ballast water management plan
v) Fuel oil management for control of the SOx emission, including fueling management plan and procedure
vi) Refrigerant systems management plan
Documents to be Furnished Onboard (1 June 2020)
The following documents are to be furnished onboard:
i) Instructions and procedures addressing operation and control of NOx exhaust gas cleaning systems
ii) Instructions and procedures addressing operation and control of SOx exhaust gas cleaning systems
Plans and Additional Information (1 June 2020)
One set of the stamped copies of the following plans and information is to be placed onboard the vessel for the Operator’s use and for presentation to the ABS Surveyor at appropriate surveys.
ENVIRO Notation
The following plans or information are to be submitted for approval, review or reference, as appropriate:
i) Fuel oil storage, settling and service tanks arrangement, including overfilling prevention
arrangement
ii) Arrangement for cargo and non-cargo loading and discharge facilities, including connections, spill trays and drainage systems
iii) For tank vessels, cargo and ballast tanks arrangement, including piping systems and cargo overfilling prevention
iv) Details and diagrams of sewage system, including processing equipment
v) List of equipment and arrangements for the handling/stowage of garbage
vi) For all vessels, diagrammatic details of ballast system, including details of water treatment, if applicable
vii) Details of hull coating system, including anti-fouling coating specification
viii) Details of NOx control and measurement procedures
ix) Diagrammatic details of fuel oil system, including details of SOx control
x) Diagrammatic details of permanent refrigerant system
xi) Details of fire extinguishing media used in vessel’s fixed fire fighting systems and extinguishers
Design Characteristics (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses the fundamental design characteristics and shipboard operations which are aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects on the environment.
Vessels are to comply with the following fundamental characteristics, as applicable:
Propulsion Plant Automation (1 June 2020)
The monitoring and control of a propulsion plant is to comply with the ABS requirements for the class notation ACC or ACCU.
The requirements for the ACC or ACCU notation are specified in 4-9-1/3.1 and 4-9-1/3.3 of the Maine Vessel Rules, respectively.
Management and Support Systems (1 June 2020)
The management practices and systems required to receive the ENVIRO notation are presented in this Subsection.
Environmental Officer
An Environmental Officer is to be assigned onboard any vessel receiving the ENVIRO notation. This individual is responsible for the administration of the onboard environmental program which includes, but is not limited to:
i) Compliance with current IMO environmental regulations
ii) Implementation of relevant procedures associated with this Guide and the IMO environmental regulations
iii) Upkeep of relevant logs and records
iv) Training of personnel in relevant environmental practices
Safety and Environmental Management
Vessels are to comply with the requirements of the International Safety Management Code (ISM Code).
Support Systems – Rapid Response Damage Assessment Program
For vessels 500 gross tons and over, an approved contract is to be implemented with the ABS RRDA program, or with a similar program of another IACS Member Society.
For offshore support vessels in length 100 m (328 feet) and below, the ABS RRDA program or a similar program of another IACS Member Society is not required.
Sea Discharge – Oil (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects on the sea environment by oil discharges from vessels.
Machinery Spaces
Vessels are to hold and maintain a valid IOPP Certificate with Form A in accordance with the requirements of MARPOL Annex I.
In addition, vessels are to comply with the requirements of 2/13.1.1 through 2/13.1.5.
13.1.1 Protection of Fuel Oil Tanks (1 June 2020)
Arrangements of fuel oil tanks are to comply with 4-6-4/17.1 and 4-6-4/17.3 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
High Level Alarms
All fuel oil tanks are to be fitted with an alarm to warn of the level reaching a predetermined high level.
Oily Water Separator
Oily Water Separator for machinery spaces is to be provided with alarm arrangements to indicate when the oil content of the effluent exceeds 15 ppm. In addition, automatic stopping arrangements
Sludge Tank
The total capacity of sludge tanks is to meet the criteria specified in MARPOL Annex I, Unified Interpretations 16.1 and 16.2, as applicable, based on the maximum period of voyage between ports where sludge can be discharged ashore, daily fuel oil consumption, homogenizers or sludge incinerators installed, and fuel purification.
Collecting Trays
Collecting trays with capacities of at least the following are to be fitted under all vents for fuel oil tanks, lubricating oil tanks, other oil tanks (e.g., hydraulic oil) and overflow tanks, and filling manifolds:
i) 0.02 m3 (0.70 ft3) for vessels of less than 300 gross tons
ii) 0.06 m3 (2.11 ft3) for vessels of 300 or more but less than 1,600 gross tons
iii) 0.12 m3 (4.21 ft3 ) for vessels 1,600 gross tons or more
In addition, collecting trays are to be provided with means for the disposal of any drainage without discharging it into the sea.
Cargo Area
Vessels designed or adapted to carry a cargo of oil and/or oil product in bulk are to hold and maintain a valid IOPP Certificate with Form B in accordance with the requirements of MARPOL Annex I.
In addition, these vessels are to comply with the requirements of 2/13.1 through 2/13.1.5 and 2/13.3.1 through 2/13.3.4.of this Guide.
Tank Overfill Protection (1 June 2020)
Cargo oil tanks are to be fitted with tank overfill protection in accordance with 5C-1-7/21.15 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Cargo Deck
The cargo deck area is to be fitted with means and arrangements to reduce the likelihood of a cargo spill on deck reaching the sea in accordance with 2/15.3 of this Guide.
Ballast Arrangements (1 June 2020)
Ballast systems serving segregated ballast tanks are to be independent of similar equipment serving cargo oil tanks and of cargo tanks themselves in accordance with 5C-1-7/5.3.2(a) of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Crude Oil Washing (COW) Systems (1 June 2020)
Crude oil washing systems are to comply with 5C-1-7/3.3.4(e) of the Marine Vessel Rules.
15 Sea Discharge – Noxious Liquid Substances (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed towards the prevention of pollution to the sea environment by noxious liquid substances (NLS) discharges from vessels.
Vessels designed or adapted to carry a cargo of NLS in bulk are to hold and maintain a valid NLS Certificate [see 2/1.1v)] in accordance with the requirements of MARPOL Annex II.
In addition, these vessels are to comply with the requirements of 2/15.1 through 2/15.5 of this Guide.
Gauging Systems (1 June 2020)
Chemical cargo tanks are to be fitted with restricted gauging systems unless a closed type system is required by Section 5C-9-17 of the Marine Vessel Rules. Restricted gauging systems are to be in compliance with 5C-9-13/1 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Cargo Deck (1 June 2020)
The cargo deck area is to be fitted with means and arrangements to reduce the likelihood of a cargo spill on deck reaching the sea. These means and arrangements are to include, as a minimum but not be limited to, the following:
i) Collecting trays with capacities of at least the following are to be fitted under cargo loading manifolds or transfer connections:
● 0.06 m3 (2.11 ft3) for loading hoses or arms with inside diameters of 50 mm (2 in.) or less
● 0.12 m3 (4.21 ft3) for loading hoses or arms with inside diameters of more than 50 mm (2 in.) but less than 100 mm (4 in.)
● 0.24 m3 (8.42 ft3) for loading hoses or arms with inside diameters of 100 mm (4 in.) or more but less than 150 mm (6 in.)
● 0.36 m3 (12.63 ft3) for loading hoses or arms with inside diameters of 150 mm (6 in.) or more but less than 300 mm (12 in.)
● 0.48 m3 (16.84 ft3) for loading hoses or arms with inside diameters of 300 mm (12 in.) or more
In addition, collecting trays are to be provided with means for the disposal of any drainage without discharging it into the sea.
ii) Continuous coamings are to be fitted on deck in accordance with 5C-9-3/7.7 and 5C-9-3/7.7 (IMO) of the Marine Vessel Rules.
In addition, the deck drainage system is to be provided with means for the disposal of any cargo drainage without discharging it into the sea.
Ballast Arrangements (1 June 2020)
Pumps and ballast systems serving permanent ballast tanks are to be independent of similar equipment serving chemical cargo tanks and of cargo tanks themselves in accordance with 5C-9-3/5.1, 5C-9-3/5.1 (IMO), and 5C-9-3/5.1 (ABS) of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Sea Discharge – Sewage (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects on the sea environment by sewage discharges from vessels.
Vessels are to hold and maintain a valid International Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificate in accordance with the requirements of MARPOL Annex IV.
In addition, vessels are to comply with the requirements of 2/17.1 through 2/17.5.
Sewage Treatment (1 June 2020)
As specified in MARPOL Annex IV, Regulation 9, a sewage comminuting and disinfecting system is to be provided and type-approved by the Flag Administration. Alternatively, an appropriately sized sewage holding tank is to be provided in accordance with Regulation 9.
Where installed, a sewage treatment plant is to comply with MARPOL Annex IV under the guidelines specified in IMO Resolution MEPC.2(VI) for plants installed before 1 January 2010, IMO Resolution MEPC.159(55) for plants installed on or after 1 January 2010, IMO Resolution MEPC.227(64) for plants installed on or after 1 January 2016, or equivalent marine sanitation device of USCG regulations Title 33 CFR Part 159. (Refer to USCG NVIC 9-82, change 1 and NVIC 1-09, as appropriate.)
Piping Arrangement
A suitable discharge pipeline is to be provided which leads to the exterior of the vessel and can be fitted with a standard shore connection, as specified in MARPOL Annex IV, egulation 10.
Sewage Management Plan (1 June 2020)
A sewage management plan is to be placed onboard for the guidance of the operating personnel. This plan is to give clear guidance to the crew about the sewage system and is to include, as a minimum:
i) Vessel Name and Class Number
ii) Simplified diagrams and component description of the sewage system
iii) Step-by-step instructions for the operation and management of the sewage system
iv) Methods and means of recording all sewage discharges, whether to sea or to any reception facility. The recorded data shall include, as a minimum, date of discharge; quantity of sewage discharge; location and type of reception facility; and for sea discharges, the distance to the nearest land and the vessel’s speed.
The sewage management plan is to be submitted for review by the Bureau to verify the presence of the above information, which is to be consistent with the design information and limitations considered in the classification of the vessel. The Bureau is not responsible for the operation of the sewage system.
Sea Discharge – Garbage (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed towards the prevention of pollution to the sea environment by garbage discharges from vessels.
Vessels are to comply with the requirements of MARPOL Annex V, Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships and the requirements of 2/19.1 below.
Garbage Management Plan (1 June 2020)
A garbage management plan is to be placed onboard for the guidance of the crew. This plan is to be in accordance with MEPC/Circular 317, Guidelines for the Development of Garbage Management Plans, and is to include, as a minimum:
i) Vessel Name and Class Number
ii) Procedures for collecting and separating, processing (including volume reduction), storing, and disposing of garbage
iii) Procedures for the operation of the equipment onboard associated with the handling of garbage
iv) An Environmental Officer designated in charge of carrying out the plan (see 2/11.1 of this Guide)
Sea Discharge – Water Ballast (1 June 2020)
General
This Subsection addresses requirement aimed towards the prevention of transporting harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens via water ballast discharges from vessels.
Vessels are to comply with the requirements of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (BWM Convention) and the requirements of 2/21.3 through 2/21.9 of this Guide
This Subsection does not address requirements for the design of ballast systems or ballast water treatment systems.
Ballast Water Management Plan (1 June 2020)
A ballast water management plan is to be placed onboard for the guidance of the crew. This plan is to be in accordance with IMO Resolution MEPC.127(53), “Guidelines for Ballast Water Management and Development of Ballast Water Management Plans (G4)” and MEPC 306(73), “Amendments to the Guidelines for Ballast Water Management and Development of Ballast Water Management Plans (G4)”.
Methods of Ballast Water Management
Methods of ballast water management are to consist of ballast water exchange or ballast water management systems in accordance with the BWM Convention.
Ballast Water Exchange
The three accepted methods for ballast water exchange are as follows:
i) Sequential method – a process by which a ballast tank is first emptied and then refilled
with replacement ballast water to achieve at least a 95% volumetric exchange.
ii) Flow-through method – a process by which replacement ballast water is pumped into a
ballast tank allowing the water to overflow the tank.
iii) Dilution method – a process by which replacement ballast water is filled through the top
of the ballast tank with simultaneous discharge from the bottom at the same flow rate.
As a minimum, ballast water exchange procedures are to be in accordance with IMO Resolution MEPC.124(53), “Guidelines for Ballast Water Exchange (G6)”. Design and construction of ballast water exchange arrangements are to be in accordance with IMO Resolution MEPC.149(55),
“Guidelines for Ballast Water Exchange Design and Construction Standards (G11)”.
Ballast Water Management Systems (1 June 2020)
Ballast water management systems are to be type-approved in accordance with IMO Resolution MEPC.174(58), “Guidelines for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems (G8)” for systems installed before 28 October 2020 or, for systems installed after 28 October 2020, IMO Resolution MEPC.279(70) “2016 Guidelines for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems (G8)” or IMO Resolution MEPC.300(72) “Code for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS Code). In addition, ballast water management systems that make use of active substances are to comply
with IMO Resolution MEPC.169(57), “Procedure for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems that Make Use of Active Substances (G9)”.
Ballast Water Records
Records of ballast water management are to be maintained onboard in accordance with Regulation B-2 and Appendix II of the BWM Convention.
Responsible Officer
The Environmental Officer is to be responsible for verifying that all applicable ballast water handling and treatment procedures of the ballast water management plan are followed and for recording and maintaining the appropriate records of same.
Sea Discharge – Anti-Fouling Systems (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects of introducing organotin compounds to the sea environment by anti-fouling systems of vessels.
Vessels 400 gross tons and above are to hold and maintain a valid International Anti-Fouling System Certificate in accordance with the requirements of the AFS Convention.
18 Vessels 24 meters or more in length, but less than 400 gross tons, are to hold and maintain a valid Declaration on Anti-Fouling System in accordance with the requirements of the AFS Convention.
In addition, vessels are to comply with the requirements of 2/23.1 of this Guide.
Application of Organotin Compounds
Anti-fouling systems for hulls or external parts or surfaces:
i) Are not to bear organotin compounds which act as biocides, or
ii) Are to bear a coating that forms a barrier to prevent leaching of organotin compounds from an underlying non-compliant system Small quantities of organotin compounds (such as mono- and di-substituted organotin compounds) are allowed as a chemical catalyst. The levels of these compounds are not to provide a biocidal effect and are not to be present above 2,500 milligram (mg) total tin per kilogram (kg) of dry paint.
Air Discharge – Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Emission (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed towards the prevention of pollution to the air environment by NOx emission from vessels.
Diesel Engines (1 June 2020)
For NOx emissions, marine diesel engines with power output greater than 130 kW, installed on or after 1 January 2000, are to comply with the requirements of 3/17.1. In addition, these requirements apply to marine diesel engines which undergo major conversions, as defined by MARPOL Annex VI, on or after 1 January 2000.
They do not apply to diesel engines which:
i) Are used solely for emergencies
ii) Are installed in lifeboats
iii) Are solely dedicated to the exploration, exploitation, and associated offshore processing of seabed mineral resources Marine diesel engines are to be certified for NOx emission in accordance with the requirements of Regulation 13, MARPOL Annex VI and the NOx
Technical Code, 2008 (2017 Edition).
Tier I
(a) Construction on or after 1 January 2000. The operation of marine diesel engines,
excluding i) through iii) above, which are installed on vessels constructed on or after 1 January 2000 and prior to 1 January 2011 are prohibited unless the NOx
emissions from the engines’ exhausts are within the Tier I limits of Regulation 13, MARPOL Annex VI.
(b) Marine diesel engines, excluding i). through iii). above, with a power output of more
than 5,000 kilowatt (kW) and a per cylinder displacement at or above 90 liters installed on vessels constructed on or after 1 January 1990 but prior to 1 January 2000 are to comply with the Tier I emission levels and the requirements of Regulations 13.7.1 through 13.7.5 of MARPOL Annex VI, by application of an Approved Method certified by an Administration and which is commercially available for the particular engine.
Tier II
(a) Construction on or after 1 January 2011. The operation of marine diesel engines,
excluding i) through iii) above, which are installed on vessels constructed on or after 1 January 2011 are prohibited unless the NOx emissions from the engines’ exhausts are within the Tier II limits of Regulation 13, MARPOL Annex VI.
Tier III
(a) Construction on or after 1 January 2016. The operation of marine diesel engines, excluding i). through iii). above, which are installed on vessels constructed on or after 1 January 2016 and operating in the North American Emission Control Area (ECA), or the United States Caribbean Sea ECA, are prohibited unless the NOx emissions from the engines’ exhausts are within the Tier III limits of Regulation 13, MARPOL Annex VI.
(b) Construction on or after 1 January 2021. (1 June 2020) The operation of marine diesel engines, excluding i). through iii). above, which are installed on vessels constructed on or after 1 January 2021 and operating in the Baltic Sea ECA, or the North Sea ECA, are prohibited unless the NOx emissions from the engines’ exhausts are within the Tier
III limits of Regulation 13, MARPOL Annex VI.
Emission Control Area (ECA)
An Emission Control Area (ECA), designated by IMO, is any sea area, including any port areas or coastal areas, where there exists a need to prevent, reduce, and control emissions of NOx or SOx and particulate matter. Criteria and procedures for designation of ECAs are set forth in Appendix III of MARPOL Annex VI.
NOx Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (1 June 2020)
Special consideration will be given to exhaust gas after treatment systems provided the systems are at least as effective in terms of NOx emission reduction as required by 2/25.1.3 and Regulation 13, MARPOL Annex VI.
Exhaust gas cleaning systems are to:
i) Comply with the appropriate IMO guidelines
ii) Be operated and controlled in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and
procedures
iii) Be approved by the Bureau for compliance with the applicable parts of the ABS Guide
for Exhaust Emission Abatement and the Marine Vessel Rules.
Air Discharge – Sulfur Oxides (SOx) Emission (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects on the air environment by SOx emission from vessels.
Fuel Oil for Combustion
Fuel Oil Quality
Fuel oil delivered and used onboard is to:
i) Comply with the requirements of Regulation 18.3, MARPOL Annex VI
ii) Be free from inorganic acid
iii) Be derived from blends of hydrocarbons from petroleum refining as per Regulation 18.3.1 or methods other than petroleum refining as per Regulation 18.3.2
Fuel Oil Sulfur Content – Global
When operating globally outside an ECA, the sulfur content of fuel oil used onboard is not to exceed the following limits:
i) 0.5% mass/mass on and after 1 January 2020
Fuel Oil Sulfur Content – Emission Control Areas (ECAs) (1 June 2020)
When operating within an ECA, the sulfur content of fuel oil used onboard is not to exceed the following limits:
i) 0.1% mass/mass on and after 1 January 2015
Those vessels using separate fuels when entering or leaving an ECA are to include in the fuel oil management plan, as a minimum, the following:
● Vessel Name and Class Number
● Step-by-step instructions and procedures on how to perform the fuel oil changeover
● Diagrammatic details of the fuel oil system including details of change over for SOx
control
● Methods and means of recording volume of low-sulfur fuel oils in tanks, and date, time, and position of the vessel when any operation of fuel oil changeover is completed prior to entry into or is commenced after exit from an ECA
The fuel oil management plan is to be submitted for review by the Bureau to verify the presence of the above information, which is to be consistent with the design information and limitations considered in the classification of the vessel. The Bureau is not responsible for the operation of fuel oil systems.
Fuel Oil Non-Availability (1 June 2020)
The fuel oil management plan is to contain a course of action in accordance with Regulation
18.2.1 of MARPOL Annex VI when compliant fuel oils as per 2/27.1.2 or 2/27.1.3 are not
available according to the vessel’s voyage plan. The fuel oil management plan may consider the guidance of IMO Circular MEPC.1/Circ.878 “Guidance on the Development of a Ship
Implementation Plan for the Consistent Implementation of the 0.5% sulphur limit under MARPOL Annex VI” and in particular that a procedure for Fuel Oil Non-Availability Reporting (FONAR) should be in place and that the master and chief engineer should be conversant about when and how FONAR should be used and who it should be reported to.
SOx Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (1 June 2020)
For marine diesel engines, oil fired boilers and inert gas generators, special consideration will be given to exhaust gas cleaning systems as an equivalent compliance in accordance with Regulation 4 of MARPOL Annex VI provided the systems are at least as effective in terms of SOx emission reduction as required by 2/27.1.2, 2/27.1.3, and Regulation 14, MARPOL Annex VI. Exhaust gas cleaning systems are to:
i) Comply with the requirements of the IMO Guidelines for Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems ,
Resolution MEPC.170(57) prior to 1 July 2010, the requirements of MEPC.184(59) prior to 15 May 2015 and MEPC.259(68), as amended, thereafter
ii) Be operated and controlled in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and procedures
iii) Be approved by ABS for compliance with the applicable parts of the ABS Guide for Exhaust Emission Abatement and the Marine Vessel Rules.
Air Discharge – Cargo Vapor Emission (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed towards the prevention of pollution to the air environment by cargo vapor emission from vessels.
Where a tanker is regulated by an Administration for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions, it is to hold and maintain the class notation VEC (Vapor Emission Control). See 5C-1-7/21 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Air Discharge – Incinerators (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed towards the prevention of pollution to the air environment from vessels by incinerators.
Where installed onboard, incinerators are to be type-approved in accordance with IMO Resolution MEPC.244(66) as amended, Standard Specification for Shipboard Incinerators. Incinerators are also to comply with the emission standards of Annex A1 of the IMO Resolution.
Onboard incineration is to conform to Regulation 16 of MARPOL Annex VI, and the following substances are prohibited from being incinerated:
i) MARPOL Annex I, II, and III cargo residues
ii) Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
iii) Garbage containing more than traces of heavy metals
iv) Refined petroleum products containing halogen compounds
v) Sewage sludge and sludge oil, either of which is not generated onboard
vi) Polyvinylchlorides (PVCs) except by incinerators issued IMO Type Approval Certificates
vii) Exhaust gas cleaning system residues
Incineration of any garbage, excluding iii), is to be recorded in the Garbage Record Book in accordance with MARPOL Annex V. See 2/19.
Air Discharge – Refrigerant Systems (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects on the air environment by refrigerant systems onboard vessels.
General Requirements (1 June 2020)
The requirements of 2/33 are applicable to refrigerant systems (see 1/5, Definitions) onboard vessels. For additional requirements pertaining to refrigerated cargoes, see Part 6, Chapter 2 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Stand-alone air-conditioning or refrigerator units and permanently sealed equipment, where there are no refrigerant charging connections or potentially removable components containing ozone depleting substances (ODS), are not subject to the requirements of 2/33.
Acceptable Refrigerants
Refrigerant systems are to be provided with environmentally friendly refrigerants. The use of ozone depleting refrigerants is prohibited other than hydro-chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which will be permitted on ships constructed prior to 1 January 2020.
Systems Arrangements
Refrigerant systems are to be arranged with appropriate means for isolation of sections and components to allow for system maintenance without releasing any substantial quantity of the refrigerant.
Unavoidable minimal release associated with recovery is permitted provided recovery units are installed for the evacuation of the system. For refrigerant recovery, compressors/recovery units are to be capable of evacuating a system charge into an independent/separate liquid storage container(s). The recovered refrigerant storage capacity of this storage container(s) is to be at least 125% of the largest volume of
refrigerant in any one segment of the refrigeration system which can be isolated. Each portion of the system that can be isolated is to have piping connections suitable for the attachment of the recovery equipment.
System Leaks Monitoring
Annual refrigerant leakage is to be not more than 10% of the total refrigerant charge of each system. An appropriate leak detection system is to be provided to continuously monitor spaces into which the refrigerant could leak. Further, an alarm is to be given in a manned location when the refrigerant concentration exceeds a predetermined limit (for example, 25 ppm for ammonia or 300 ppm for halogenated fluorocarbons). Corrective action to repair a refrigerant leak is to be taken as soon as practicable after the activation of the alarm.
Refrigerant Systems Management Plan (1 June 2020)
A refrigerant systems management plan is to be placed onboard for the guidance of the operating personnel. This plan is to give clear guidance to the crew about the refrigerant systems and is to include, as a minimum:
i) Vessel Name and Class Number
ii) Simplified diagrams and component description of all refrigerant systems
iii) Procedures detailing the means to control the loss, leakage, venting, and disposal of refrigerants
iv) Methods and means of recording in mass (kilograms) refrigerant inventory. The recorded data shall include, as a minimum, the following:
a) Supply of refrigerant onboard
b) Discharge of refrigerant to the atmosphere due to leaks or system maintenance
c) Recovered refrigerant including its storage location
d) Refrigerant disposal to land-based reception facilities
The refrigerant systems management plan is to be submitted for review by ABS to verify the presence of the above information, which is to be consistent with the design information and limitations considered in the classification of the vessel. ABS is not responsible for the operation of refrigerant systems.
Air Discharge – Fire-fighting Systems (1 June 2020)
This Subsection addresses requirements aimed at reducing the potential adverse effects on the air environment by fire-fighting systems onboard vessels.
Fire-extinguishing Medium
The use of Halons or perfluorocarbon mediums is not permitted in fixed fire extinguishing systems or portable fire extinguishers. Alternative mediums to Halons or perfluorocarbons may be acceptable, provided:
i) They contain no ozone depleting substances
ii) They have a GWP less than 4000
NOx Tier III Notation (1 June 2020)
The notation NOx-Tier III indicates that all marine diesel engines with power output greater than 130 kW, other than those exempted as per Para 1.2 of Regulation 13 of Annex VI of the MARPOL 73/78 Regulations, as applicable, have been certified for compliance with Para 5.1 of Regulation 13 of Annex VI of MARPOL 73/78, and provided with an approved NOx Technical File and Engine International Air Pollution (EIAPP) certification.
Where ABS has not acted as the Recognized Organization (on behalf of the flag Administration) for the engine EIAPP certification, copies of the following are to be submitted for review for each engine:
i) EIAPP Certificate.
ii) NOx Technical File and Onboard NOx Verification Procedures.
iii) NOx critical component drawings.
iv) Supporting documentation of the engine group/family approval.
v) Conformity of Production procedures.
Engines using SCR or EGR equipment to meet the Tier III NOx limits, and which have not applied the applicable optional notations of the ABS EEA Guide, are to comply with the minimum requirements of that guide, as prescribed in 1/15 Table 1 of the ABS EEA Guide, for assignment of the NOx-Tier III notation.
Surveys (1 June 2020)
As applicable, all annual, intermediate and renewal or periodical surveys for the various MARPOL Annexes are to be satisfactorily completed, as well as completion of the periodical survey requirements of machinery, as specified in Chapters 6 and 8, and survey requirements of Sections 7-9-7 and 7-9-13 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7).
At each periodical survey, the attending Surveyor is to verify the following are maintained onboard:
i) Certification and documentation as outlined in 2/3 of this Guide.
ii) Operational procedures as outlined in 2/5 of this Guide.
Certification and Documentation (1 June 2020)
In addition to the documentation in 2/3 of this Guide, the following certification and documentation are required, as applicable, to receive the Environmental Protection Plus, ENVIRO+, notation:
i) Documentation indicating relevant navigational equipment complies with criteria of Section 3, ABS Guide for Bridge Design and Navigational Equipment/Systems.
Operational Procedures (1 June 2020)
In addition to the documents in 2/5.1 of this Guide, the sewage management plan of 2/5.1ii) is to include the grey water system.
Plans and Additional Details (1 June 2020)
In addition to the plans and details in 2/7 of this Guide, the following plans or details are to be submitted for approval, review or reference, as appropriate:
i) Layout and dimensional details of the bridge and its workstations (see 3/13 of the ABS Guide for Bridge Design and Navigational Equipment/Systems for additional plans and data to be submitted)
ii) Cargo vapor emission arrangements; tank gauging systems; cargo transfer rates; hazardous areas (see 5C-1-7/21.3 of the Marine Vessel Rules)
iii) Details and diagrams of incinerator to include the feed to the incinerator and the incinerator’s operating system
iv) Inventory of hazardous and potentially hazardous materials as per the ABS Guide for the Inventory of Hazardous Materials
Design Characteristics (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate automation requirements of 2/9.1 of this Guide and the requirement of 3/7.1 below:
Navigation Bridge Design
Vessels are to hold and maintain the class notation NBLES (Navigational Bridge Layout and Equipment/ Systems). See Section 3 of the ABS Guide for Bridge Design and Navigational Equipment/Systems.
Management and Support Systems (1 June 2020)
In addition to the requirements in 2/11 of this Guide, vessels are to comply with 3/9.1 below:
Recycling
Vessels are to hold and maintain the class notation IHM (Inventory of Hazardous Materials). See the ABS Guide for the Inventory of Hazardous Materials.
Sea Discharge – Oil (1 June 2020)
In addition to the text in 2/13 of this Guide, vessels are to comply with 3/11.1 below:
Machinery Spaces
Protection of Fuel Oil Tanks and Lubricating Oil Tanks (1 June 2020)
In addition to 2/13.1.1 of this Guide, arrangements of fuel oil tanks and lubricating oil tanks are to comply with the requirements for the class notation POT in 4-6-4/17.5 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
High Level Alarms
In addition to 2/13.1.2 of this Guide, lubricating oil tanks and other oil tanks (e.g., hydraulic oil) are to be fitted with an alarm to warn of the level reaching a predetermined high level.
Oily Water Separator (1 June 2020)
Oil filtering equipment for machinery spaces is to be provided with alarm arrangements to indicate when the oil content of the effluent exceeds 5 ppm. In addition, automatic stopping arrangements are to be provided for any discharge of oily mixtures when the oil content in the effluent exceeds 5ppm.
Sea Discharge – Noxious Liquid Substances (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate sea discharge – noxious liquid substances requirements of 2/15 of this Guide and the requirements of 3/13.1 and 3/13.3 below:
Gauging Systems (1 June 2020)
In lieu of 2/15.1 of this Guide, chemical cargo tanks are to be fitted with closed gauging systems which are to be in compliance with 5C-9-13/1 of the Marine Vessel Rules with the exception of Offshore Vessels carrying limited quantities of Noxious Liquid Substances. OSV’s carrying limited quantities of NLS need only to comply with 2/15.1 of this Guide.
Cargo Tanks Arrangement (1 June 2020)
The arrangements of chemical cargo tanks are to comply with the double hull and double bottom requirements of a Type 2 ship unless a Type 1 ship is required by Section 5C-9-17 of the Marine Vessel Rules. The locations of the cargo tanks from bottom and side shell plating are to be in compliance with 5C-9-2/6.1.2 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
For offshore support vessels complying with IMO Res. A.673 (16) Guidelines for the Transport and Handling of Limited Amounts of Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Support Vessels, cargo tanks are to be located at distance B/20 vertically above the molded line of the bottom shell plating at center line and nowhere less than 760 mm (30 in.) from the shell plating. This requirement does not apply to the tanks for diluted slops arising from tank washing.
Sea Discharge – Sewage (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate sea discharge – sewage requirements of 2/17 of this Guide and the requirements of 3/15.1 and 3/15.3 below:
Sewage Treatment Plant (1 2020)
In lieu of 2/17.1 of this Guide, a sewage treatment plant is to be provided and is to comply with MARPOL Annex IV under the guidelines specified in IMO Resolution MEPC.227(64), 2012 Guidelines on Implementation of Effluent Standards and Performance Tests for Sewage Treatment Plants, as amended by MEPC.284(70) or the equivalent marine sanitation device of USCG regulations Title 33 CFR Part 159.
Domestic Wastewater (Grey Water)
Sewage treatment plants are to be equipped with means to treat grey water in addition to sewage.
For vessels in port, a sewage holding tank, if installed in conjunction with the treatment plant, is to have sufficient capacity for the storage of both sewage and grey water. The tank is to be fitted with a high level alarm.
Sea Discharge – Garbage (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate sea discharge – garbage requirements of 2/19 and the requirements of 3/17.1 and 3/17.3.
Arrangements
Dedicated arrangements are to be provided for storage of garbage.
Food Wastes
Vessels are not to dispose of food wastes into the sea except when they have been passed through a comminutor or grinder. Such comminuted or ground food wastes are to be capable of passing through a screen with openings no greater than 25 mm (1 in.).
In addition, food wastes may be incinerated.
Sea Discharge – Water Ballast (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate sea discharge – water ballast requirements of 2/21.
Sea Discharge – Anti-Fouling Systems (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate sea discharge – anti-fouling systems requirements of 2/23.
Air Discharge – Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Emission (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate air discharge – NOx emission requirements of 2/25.
Air Discharge – Sulfur Oxides (SOx) Emission (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate air discharge – SOx emission requirements of 2/27 of this Guide and the requirement of 3/25.1 below:
Fuel Oil Sulfur Content (1 June 2020)
i) As indicated in 2/27.1.2 of this Guide, the sulfur content of fuel oil used on board globally
(Excluding ECA Zones) is not to exceed the limit of 0.5% mass/mass.
ii) As indicated in 2/27.1.3 of this Guide, the sulfur content of fuel oil used onboard in ECA Zones is not to exceed the limit of 0.1% mass/mass.
Air Discharge – Cargo Vapor Emission (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate air discharge – cargo vapor emission requirements of 2/29 of this Guide.
Tankers carrying crude oil or petroleum products with flash point less than 60°C are to hold and maintain the class notation VEC (Vapor Emission Control). See 5C-1-7/21 of the Marine Vessel Rules.
Air Discharge – Incinerators (1 June 2020)
For vessels 500 gross tons and over, at least one incinerator is to be installed onboard and is to comply with the air discharge – incinerators requirements of 2/31 of this Guide, unless stowage arrangements for all garbage and other shipboard wastes generated during the ship’s normal service are provided until offloaded to shore, and related procedures are available onboard.
Air Discharge – Refrigerant Systems (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate air discharge – refrigerant systems requirements of 2/33 of this Guide and the requirements of 3/31.1 of this Guide.
Acceptable Refrigerants (18 June 2013)
In lieu of 2/33.3 of this Guide, refrigerant systems are to be provided with environmentally friendly refrigerants. The use of ozone depleting refrigerants is prohibited other than hydro-chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which will be permitted on ships constructed prior to 1 January 2020. Furthermore, the use of refrigerants with global warming potential (GWP) greater than 2000 are prohibited other than for the notation, EP2020+.
Where the use of a refrigerant medium exceeds a GWP of 2000, a special notation, EP2020+, will be assigned provided the refrigerant system complies with all the other conditions and requirements of 3/25 of this Guide. The notation EP2020+ signifies the Owner’s commitment to replace the existing refrigerant with one having a GWP less than or equal to 2000 by the year 2020.
Air Discharge – Fire-fighting Systems (1 June 2020)
Vessels are to comply with the appropriate air discharge – fire-fighting systems requirements of 2/35 of this Guide and the requirement of 3/33.1.
Fire-extinguishing Medium
As indicated in 2/35.1.ii of this Guide, the GWP is to be less than 2000.
35 Surveys (1 June 2020) As applicable, all annual, intermediate and renewal or periodical surveys for the various MARPOL Annexes are to be satisfactorily completed, as well as completion of the periodical survey requirements of machinery, as specified in Chapters 6 and 8, and survey requirements of Sections 7-9-7 and 7-9-13 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7).
At each periodical survey, the attending Surveyor is to verify the following are maintained onboard:
i) Certification and documentation as outlined in 3/1 of this Guide
ii) Operational procedures as outlined in 3/3 of this Guide
Did you subscribe to our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Eagle
