The Sub-Committee on Navigation, Radio-Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR), at its ninth meeting (21-30 June 2022), considering amendments to Chapter IV of SOLAS, resolution MSC.496(105) adopted, according to which, the circular No. COMSAR.1/Circ.32/Rev.1 related to the modernization of radio equipment (GMDSS) and harmonizing the requirements related to them. In this technical article, the second edition (COMSAR.1/Circ.32/Rev.2) of this directive is explained, which has become effective from January 1, 2024 for all ships subject to the SOLAS Convention.
The Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (EIAPP Certificate) plays a pivotal role in addressing Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions from marine engines. This certification, governed by the NOx Technical Code, employs prescribed test cycles and measurement methods to calculate NOx emissions, emphasizing compliance with stringent environmental standards.
In accordance with article 9 of the Convention, a Party may sample the ship’s ballast water for the purpose of determining whether the ship is in compliance with the Convention in accordance with these Guidelines. Although the Convention contains no requirements for provision of sampling points, the Guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems (G8) adopted by resolution MEPC. 174(58) do expressly call for the provision of sampling facilities, not only for the purpose of type approval, but also for the purpose of other required sampling process.
Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT) offer a survey method that allows the examination of various structure parts without requiring direct physical access by the surveyor. With the development of remote inspection techniques (RITs), such as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and real-time sensors which are carried by drones, the maritime industry is increasingly applying remote inspection techniques (RITs).
The SCF(Ship Construction File), as outlined in IMO guidelines, details how functional requirements of ship construction standards are applied, must be provided at delivery, kept on board, and updated as needed during the ship's service.
In accordance with MARPOL/Annex I/Reg. 12, ships with a gross tonnage of 400 and above are mandated to be equipped with a tank or tanks of sufficient capacity. The capacity should be determined with consideration given to the type of machinery and the duration of the voyage, ensuring the proper reception of oil residues (sludge).
Air pipes in ships maintain pressure equilibrium during tank filling. They are usually installed on the upper ceiling of the tanks. There are specific requirements for their height and structure, which are determined based on their positions. In this article, we will briefly introduce the air pipes and review the related regulations based on the International Load Line Convention.
Fixed gas fire-extinguishing systems generally work by either lowering the oxygen concentration in the surrounding atmosphere to a level where combustion becomes impossible or by disrupting the essential chemical reactions needed for the fire to continue spreading.
Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) has joined the major classification societies to amend its rules relating to the inspection of seawater-lubricated propeller shaft systems. The amendment means that ships with open seawater-lubricated propeller shafts that are built to ClassNK rules are subject to the same 15-year shaft withdrawal inspection periods as oil-lubricated shafts and stern tubes, subject to monitoring criteria.
The Marine Environment Protection Committee, at its eightieth session (3 to 7 July 2023) approved the Guidance on ballast water record-keeping and reporting to assist in bringing clarity to the record-keeping and reporting process under the BWM Convention, including guidance on completing the Ballast Water Record Book. This BWRB format will enter into force on 1 February 2025.