Looking ahead, there is an avalanche of regulations headed our way. While some are truly international coming from the IMO or applicable by region such as the ones put forward by the EU, there are others that are national such as those enforced by the USCG for example. However, what is confusing most people is how varied some the regulation are in scope. The EU MRV regulation is a classic example that appears to clash with the IMO reporting system, causing concern in the shipping community on the need for compliance with both, apprehension on open availability of reported data, etc.
Here is a list of major regulations that we need to be comply with in 2017:
· 1st Jan 2017 – International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar code): Mandatory compliance
· 1st Jan 2017 – International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code): Mandatory compliance
· 1st Jan 2017 - Amendments (03-15) to International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC Code): Mandatory compliance
· 1st Jan 2017 – Amendments to International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code): Voluntary compliance (Mandatory from 1st Jan 2018)
· 1st Jan 2017 – Amendments (Annex I, Regulation 12) to International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL): Mandatory compliance
· 1st Jan 2017 – Amendments (Chapter II & XIV) International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS): Mandatory compliance
· 1st Jan 2017 – China Emission Control Areas (maximum 0.5% sulphur in fuel): Mandatory compliance
· 8th Sep 2017 – International Convention for Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM): Mandatory compliance
Which ones have been missed?
Let me know your thoughts?