For reasons of economy, this document is printed in a limited number. Delegates are 

kindly asked to bring their copies to meetings and not to request additional copies.

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION

IMO 

E

MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION 

COMMITTEE 

58th session 

Agenda item 23 

MEPC 58/23

 16 October 2008

 Original: ENGLISH

REPORT OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE 

ON ITS FIFTY-EIGHTH SESSION

Section Paragraph Nos. Page No. 

 

1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 – 1.9 5 

 

2 HARMFUL AQUATIC ORGANISMS IN BALLAST 

WATER 2.1 – 2.63 8 

 

3 RECYCLING OF SHIPS 3.1 – 3.56 20 

 

4 PREVENTION OF AIR POLLUTION FROM SHIPS 4.1 – 4.57 30 

 

5 CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF 

AMENDMENTS TO MANDATORY 

INSTRUMENTS 5.1 – 5.46 41 

 

6 INTERPRETATIONS OF AND AMENDMENTS 

TO MARPOL AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS 6.1 – 6.17 51 

 

7 IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OPRC CONVENTION 

AND THE OPRC-HNS PROTOCOL AND 

RELEVANT CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS 7.1 – 7.17 55 

 

8 IDENTIFICATION AND PROTECTION OF 

SPECIAL AREAS AND PARTICULARLY 

SENSITIVE SEA AREAS 8.1 – 8.9 57 

 

9 INADEQUACY OF RECEPTION FACILITIES 9.1 – 9.10 59 

 

10 REPORTS OF SUB-COMMITTEES 10.1 – 10.76 60 

11 WORK OF OTHER BODIES 11.1 – 11.15 68 

12 STATUS OF CONVENTIONS 12.1 – 12.2 71 
MEPC 58/23 - 2 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Section Paragraph Nos. Page No. 

 

13 HARMFUL ANTI-FOULING SYSTEMS FOR 

SHIPS 13.1 – 13.4 72 

14 PROMOTION OF IMPLEMENTATION AND 

ENFORCEMENT OF MARPOL AND RELATED 

INSTRUMENTS 14.1 – 14.3 73 

 

15 TECHNICAL CO-OPERATION SUB-PROGRAMME 

FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE MARINE 

ENVIRONMENT 15.1 – 15.17 73 

 

16 ROLE OF THE HUMAN ELEMENT 16.1 – 16.3 76 

17 FORMAL SAFETY ASSESSMENT 17.1 – 17.20 76 

18 DEVELOPMENT OF A GUIDANCE DOCUMENT 

FOR MINIMIZING THE RISK OF SHIP STRIKES 

WITH CETACEANS 18.1 – 18.7 80 

 

19 WORK PROGRAMME OF THE COMMITTEE 

AND SUBSIDIARY BODIES 19.1 – 19.27 81 

 

20 APPLICATION OF THE COMMITTEES’ 

GUIDELINES 20.1 – 20.7 85 

21 ELECTION OF THE CHAIRMAN AND 

VICE-CHAIRMAN FOR 2009 21.1 87 

 

22 ANY OTHER BUSINESS 22.1 – 22.2 87 

 

LIST OF ANNEXES 

ANNEX 1 STATEMENTS BY THE DELEGATIONS OF INDIA AND THE REPUBLIC 

OF KOREA CONCERNING TWO INDIAN SEAFARERS 

 

ANNEX 2 STATEMENT BY ICS ON BEHALF OF THE INDUSTRY CONCERNING 

PIRACY IN THE GULF OF ADEN 

 

ANNEX 3 RESOLUTION MEPC.173(58) – GUIDELINES FOR BALLAST WATER 

SAMPLING (G2) 

 

ANNEX 4 RESOLUTION MEPC.174(58) – GUIDELINES FOR APPROVAL OF 

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (G8) 

 
 - 3 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 5 RESOLUTION MEPC.175(58) – INFORMATION REPORTING ON TYPE 

APPROVED BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

 

ANNEX 6 DRAFT INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFE AND 

ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND RECYCLING OF SHIPS 

 

ANNEX 7 DRAFT CONFERENCE RESOLUTION – CONTRIBUTION OF THE 

PARTIES TO THE BASEL CONVENTION AND THE INTERNATIONAL 

LABOUR ORGANIZATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE 

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFE AND 

ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND RECYCLING OF SHIPS 

 

ANNEX 8 STATEMENT BY THE DELEGATION OF TURKEY REGARDING A 

PILOT PROJECT ON SHIP RECYCLING 

 

ANNEX 9 STATEMENTS BY DELEGATIONS ON MATTERS OF PRINCIPLE OR 

POLICY CONCERNING THE GHG ISSUE 

 

ANNEX 10 STATEMENTS BY THE DELEGATIONS OF INDIA AND GREECE ON 

MARKET-BASED MEASURES TO CONTROL GHG EMISSIONS FROM 

SHIPS 

 

ANNEX 11 DRAFT INTERIM GUIDELINES ON THE METHOD OF CALCULATION 

OF THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY DESIGN INDEX FOR NEW SHIPS 

 

ANNEX 12 TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE INTERSESSIONAL MEETING OF 

THE WORKING GROUP ON GHG EMISSIONS FROM SHIPS 

 

ANNEX 13 RESOLUTION MEPC.176(58) – AMENDMENTS TO THE ANNEX OF THE 

PROTOCOL OF 1997 TO AMEND THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION 

FOR THE PREVENTION OF POLLUTION FROM SHIPS, 1973, AS 

MODIFIED BY THE PROTOCOL OF 1978 RELATING THERETO 

(REVISED MARPOL ANNEX VI) 

 

ANNEX 14 RESOLUTION MEPC.177(58) – AMENDMENTS TO THE TECHNICAL 

CODE ON CONTROL OF EMISSION OF NITROGEN OXIDES FROM 

MARINE DIESEL ENGINES (NOX TECHNICAL CODE 2008) 

 

ANNEX 15 TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE BLG SUB-COMMITTEE TO UPDATE 

OR DEVELOP GUIDELINES REQUIRED UNDER THE REVISED MARPOL 

ANNEX VI AND THE NOX TECHNICAL CODE 2008 

 

ANNEX 16 RESPONSE TO GESAMP REGARDING EGCS INTERIM WASHWATER 

GUIDELINES 

 

ANNEX 17 UNIFIED INTERPRETATION TO PARAGRAPHS 6, 7, 8 AND 11.8 OF 

REGULATION 12A OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

 
MEPC 58/23 - 4 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 18 UNIFIED INTERPRETATION TO REGULATION 23.7.3.2 (ACCIDENTAL 

OIL OUTFLOW PERFORMANCE) OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

 

ANNEX 19 DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 5.8 OF THE SUPPLEMENT TO 

THE IOPP CERTIFICATE (FORM B) OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

 

ANNEX 20 TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE OPRC-HNS TECHNICAL GROUP 

 

ANNEX 21 WORK PROGRAMME OF THE ORPC-HNS TECHNICAL GROUP 

 

ANNEX 22 PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR TG 9 

 

ANNEX 23 STATEMENT BY THE DELEGATION OF CUBA ON RECEPTION 

FACILITIES 

 

ANNEX 24 DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO MARPOL ANNEX I TO ADD CHAPTER 8 –

PREVENTION OF POLLUTION DURING TRANSFER OF OIL CARGO 

BETWEEN OIL TANKERS AT SEA 

 

ANNEX 25 DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO REGULATIONS 1, 12, 13, 17 AND 38 OF 

MARPOL ANNEX I 

 

ANNEX 26 DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE IOPP CERTIFICATE FORM A (SHIPS 

OTHER THAN OIL TANKERS) AND FORM B (OIL TANKERS) 

 

ANNEX 27 DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE OIL RECORD BOOK PARTS I AND II 

 

ANNEX 28 UNIFIED INTERPRETATION TO REGULATION 12.1 OF MARPOL 

ANNEX I 

 

ANNEX 29 REVISED WORK PROGRAMME OF THE BLG SUB-COMMITTEE AND 

PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR BLG 13 

 

ANNEX 30 REVISED WORK PROGRAMME OF THE FSI SUB-COMMITTEE AND 

PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR FSI 17 

 

ANNEX 31 WORK PROGRAMME ITEMS OF THE DSC, NAV AND DE 

SUB-COMMITTEES WHICH RELATE TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 

 

ANNEX 32 ITEMS TO BE INCLUDED IN THE AGENDAS FOR MEPC 59, MEPC 60 

AND MEPC 61 

 

 
 - 5 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

1 INTRODUCTION 

1.1 The fifty-eighth session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee was held at 

IMO Headquarters from 6 to 10 October 2008 under the chairmanship of Mr. A. Chrysostomou 

(Cyprus). The Committee’s Vice-Chairman, Mr. A. Chatterjee (India), was also present. 

1.2 The session was attended by delegations from the following Members of IMO: 

ALGERIA 

ANGOLA 

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA 

ARGENTINA 

AUSTRALIA 

BAHAMAS 

BANGLADESH 

BARBADOS 

BELGIUM 

BELIZE 

BOLIVIA 

BRAZIL 

CAMEROON 

CANADA 

CHILE 

CHINA 

COLOMBIA 

COOK ISLANDS 

CROATIA 

CUBA 

CYPRUS 

DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

DENMARK 

DOMINICA 

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 

ECUADOR 

EGYPT 

ESTONIA 

FINLAND 

FRANCE 

GERMANY 

GHANA 

GREECE 

ICELAND 

INDIA 

INDONESIA 

IRAN (ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF) 

IRELAND 

ISRAEL 

ITALY 

JAMAICA 

JAPAN 

KENYA 

LATVIA 

 LIBERIA 

 LITHUANIA 

LUXEMBOURG 

MALAYSIA 

MALTA 

MARSHALL ISLANDS 

MEXICO 

MONACO 

MONGOLIA 

MOROCCO 

NAMIBIA 

NETHERLANDS 

NEW ZEALAND 

NIGERIA 

NORWAY 

OMAN 

PANAMA 

PAPUA NEW GUINEA 

PERU 

PHILIPPINES 

POLAND 

PORTUGAL 

QATAR 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

ROMANIA 

RUSSIAN FEDERATION 

SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS 

SAINT VINCENT AND THE 

 GRENADINES 

SAN MARINO 

SAUDI ARABIA 

SIERRA LEONE 

SINGAPORE 

SLOVENIA 

SOUTH AFRICA 

SPAIN 

SRI LANKA 

SUDAN 

SWEDEN 

SWITZERLAND 

SYRIAN ARAB REPUBLIC 
MEPC 58/23 - 6 - 

 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

THAILAND 

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 

TURKEY 

TUVALU 

UKRAINE 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 

UNITED KINGDOM 

UNITED STATES 

URUGUAY 

VANUATU 

 VENEZUELA 

the following Associate Members of IMO: 

 HONG KONG, CHINA 

 FAROE ISLANDS 

by representatives from the following United Nations and Specialized Agencies: 

 UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME (UNEP)/SECRETARIAT OF 

 THE BASEL CONVENTION/SECRETARIAT OF THE CONVENTION ON 

 MIGRATORY SPECIES 

 INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION (ILO) 

UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE 

 (UNFCCC) 

THE REGIONAL MARINE POLLUTION EMERGENCY RESPONSE CENTRE FOR 

 THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA (REMPEC) 

by observers from the following intergovernmental organizations: 

 EUROPEAN COMMISSION (EC) 

 MARITIME ORGANISATION FOR WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICA (MOWCA) 

 LEAGUE OF ARAB STATES 

REGIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE MARINE 

 ENVIRONMENT (ROPME) 

INTERNATIONAL OIL POLLUTION COMPENSATION FUNDS (IOPC FUNDS) 

COMMISSION FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT OF 

 THE NORTH-EAST ATLANTIC (OSPAR COMMISSION) 

WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICA MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON 

 PORT STATE CONTROL (ABUJA MoU) 

INTERNATIONAL WHALING COMMISSION (IWC) 

REGIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR THE CONSERVATION OF 

 THE ENVIRONMENT OF THE RED SEA AND THE GULF OF ADEN (PERSGA) 

and by observers from the following non-governmental organizations: 

INTERNATIONAL CHAMBER OF SHIPPING (ICS) 

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION (ISO) 

INTERNATIONAL UNION OF MARINE INSURANCE (IUMI) 

INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT WORKERS’ FEDERATION (ITF) 

INTERNATIONAL RADIO-MARITIME COMMITTEE (CIRM) 

COMITÉ MARITIME INTERNATIONAL (CMI) 

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PORTS AND HARBORS (IAPH) 

BIMCO 

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES (IACS) 

 EUROPEAN CHEMICAL INDUSTRY COUNCIL (CEFIC) 

 OIL COMPANIES INTERNATIONAL MARINE FORUM (OCIMF) 
 - 7 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

 INTERNATIONAL MARITIME PILOTS’ ASSOCIATION (IMPA) 

 FRIENDS OF THE EARTH INTERNATIONAL (FOEI) 

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE INSTITUTES OF NAVIGATION (IAIN) 

INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF SHIPMASTERS’ ASSOCIATIONS (IFSMA) 

COMMUNITY OF EUROPEAN SHIPYARDS’ ASSOCIATIONS (CESA) 

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TANKER OWNERS 

 (INTERTANKO) 

THE INTERNATIONAL GROUP OF P & I ASSOCIATIONS (P & I CLUBS) 

THE INTERNATIONAL TANKER OWNERS POLLUTION FEDERATION LIMITED 

 (ITOPF) 

THE WORLD CONSERVATION UNION (IUCN) 

ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON PROTECTION OF THE SEA (ACOPS) 

GREENPEACE INTERNATIONAL 

CRUISE LINES INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION (CLIA) 

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF DRY CARGO SHIPOWNERS 

 (INTERCARGO) 

WORLD WIDE FUND FOR NATURE (WWF) 

ASSOCIATION OF EUROPEAN MANUFACTURERS OF INTERNAL 

COMBUSTION ENGINES (EUROMOT) 

INTERNATIONAL PETROLEUM INDUSTRY ENVIRONMENTAL 

CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION (IPIECA) 

THE INSTITUTE OF MARINE ENGINEERING, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 

 (IMarEST) 

INTERNATIONAL SHIP MANAGERS’ ASSOCIATION (INTERMANAGER) 

INTERNATIONAL PARCEL TANKERS ASSOCIATION (IPTA) 

INTERNATIONAL SAILING FEDERATION (ISAF) 

INTERNATIONAL HARBOUR MASTERS’ ASSOCIATION (IHMA) 

INTERNATIONAL BULK TERMINALS ASSOCIATION (IBTA) 

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN MARITIME ASSOCIATION (ICMA) 

THE ROYAL INSTITUTION OF NAVAL ARCHITECTS (RINA) 

INTERFERRY 

INTERNATIONAL BUNKER INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (IBIA) 

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MARITIME UNIVERSITIES (IAMU) 

INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR ANIMAL WELFARE (IFAW) 

INTERNATIONAL PAINT AND PRINTING INK COUNCIL (IPPIC) 

 INTERNATIONAL SPILL CONTROL ORGANIZATION (ISCO) 

1.3 The Chairman of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), Mr. N. Ferrer (Philippines); the 

Chairmen of the Sub-Committee on Flag State Implementation (FSI), Mrs. Tatjana Krilić

(Croatia); and Sub-Committee on Bulk Liquids and Gases (BLG), Mr. Z. Alam (Singapore); 

were also present. 

The Secretary-General’s opening address 

1.4 The Secretary-General welcomed participants and delivered his opening address. The full 

text of the opening address is reproduced in document MEPC 58/INF.24. 

Chairman’s remarks 

1.5 The Chairman thanked the Secretary-General for his opening address and stated that it 

would be given every consideration in the work of the Committee. 
MEPC 58/23 - 8 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statements by the delegations of India and the Republic of Korea concerning two Indian 

seafarers 

1.6 The statement made by the delegation of India and the response statement made by the 

delegation of the Republic of Korea concerning two Indian seafarers in the Republic of Korea are 

set out in annex 1. 

Statement by ICS on behalf of the industry on piracy 

1.7 The statement made by ICS on behalf of the industry concerning piracy in the Gulf 

of Aden is set out in annex 2. 

Adoption of the agenda 

1.8 The Committee adopted the agenda (MEPC 58/1) and the provisional timetable for 

guidance during the session (MEPC 58/1/1, annex 2, as amended). The agenda, as adopted, with 

a list of documents considered under each agenda item, is set out in document MEPC 58/INF.25. 

Credentials 

1.9 The Committee noted the report of the Secretary-General that credentials of the 

delegations were in due and proper order.

2 HARMFUL AQUATIC ORGANISMS IN BALLAST WATER 

2.1 The Committee recalled that, from 31 May 2005, the “International Convention for 

the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments” (BWM Convention) had 

been open for accession by any State and noted that three more States (France, Liberia 

and South Africa) had acceded to the Convention since the last session, which brought the 

number of Contracting Governments to 16, representing an encouraging 14.24% of the world 

merchant fleet tonnage. The Committee urged the other Member States to ratify this Convention 

at the earliest possible opportunity.

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE BALLAST WATER REVIEW GROUP

2.2 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had agreed to re-establish the Ballast Water 

Review Group at this session and had approved the provisional terms of reference of the Group, 

as set out in annex 2 of document MEPC 57/21. In view of the significant volume of work, 

the Committee instructed the Group to start working immediately on the outstanding matters 

from MEPC 57 and on further development of Guidelines (G2) and (G8). The Committee agreed 

that the documents related to the above-mentioned matters should be forwarded to the Group for 

consideration and would not be introduced in plenary when the Group re-joins the plenary at a 

later stage. 

2.3 Following an intervention by Brazil, the Group was also instructed to allow Brazil to 

come back on their document MEPC 55/2/20 and provide additional clarification as, in their 

view, the proposals contained in this document were not fully understood during the discussions 

at BLG 12. 
 - 9 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

REPORTS OF THE SIXTH AND SEVENTH MEETINGS OF THE GESAMP-BWWG

2.4 After resuming the consideration of this agenda item on Wednesday, 8 October 2008, 

the Committee noted that the sixth and seventh meetings of the GESAMP-BWWG were held 

from 19 to 23 May 2008 and from 30 June to 4 July 2008, at the IMO Headquarters, under the 

chairmanship of Mr. Jan Linders and Mr. Finn Pedersen, respectively. During the two meetings, 

the GESAMP-BWWG reviewed a total of six proposals for approval of ballast water management 

systems that make use of Active Substances submitted by Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, 

Norway and the Republic of Korea. 

2.5 The Committee further noted that the seventh meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG was held 

as an extraordinary meeting in addition to the regular meeting scheduled between MEPC 57 

and MEPC 58, to review the proposals which could not be reviewed by the sixth meeting and 

which had been submitted before the deadline for submission of proposals for approval 

to MEPC 58. The Committee expressed its appreciation for the efforts made by the members of 

the GESAMP-BWWG to accomplish this task and to facilitate timely development of new ballast 

water technologies. 

Basic Approval 

2.6 The Committee, having considered the recommendations contained in annexes 5 and 6 of 

the “Report of the sixth meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC 58/2/7) as well as 

recommendations contained in annex 5 of the “Report of the seventh meeting of the 

GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC 58/2/8), agreed to give Basic Approval to: 

.1 the TG Ballastcleaner and TG Environmentalguard System proposed by Japan in 

document MEPC 57/2/8; 

.2 the Greenship’s Ballast Water Management System proposed by the 

Netherlands in document MEPC 57/2/7; and 

.3 the Ecochlor® Ballast Water Treatment System proposed by Germany in 

document MEPC 58/2/2. 

2.7 The Committee then invited the Administrations of Japan, the Netherlands and Germany 

to take into account all the recommendations made in annexes 5 and 6 of the sixth report and 

annex 5 of the seventh report, respectively, during the further development of the systems. 

Final Approval 

2.8 Having examined the recommendations contained in annex 7 of the “Report of 

the sixth meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC 58/2/7), the Committee agreed to 

give Final Approval to the Electro-CleenTM System proposed by the Republic of Korea 

in document MEPC 58/2. 

2.9 Following consideration of the recommendations contained in annex 4 of the “Report of 

the seventh meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC 58/2/8) regarding the 

OceanSaver®Ballast Water Management System proposed by Norway in document 

MEPC 58/2/1, the Committee noted the concerns expressed by the delegations of the Netherlands 

and FOEI and invited these delegations to have additional consultations with the Co-Chairman of 

the GESAMP-BWWG during the lunch break. 
MEPC 58/23 - 10 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.10 Having received additional clarification from the Co-Chairman of the GESAMP-BWWG, 

the Committee agreed to give Final Approval to the OceanSaver® Ballast Water Management 

System proposed by Norway in document MEPC 58/2/1 and, at the same time, invited 

the Administration of Norway to verify that all the recommendations made in annex 4 of the 

above report are fully addressed prior to the issuance of a Type Approval Certificate. 

2.11 Having examined the recommendations contained in annex 6 of the “Report of the 

seventh meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC 58/2/8), the Committee did not agree to 

give Final Approval to the NK-O3 BlueBallast System proposed by the Republic of Korea in 

document MEPC 58/2/3 for the reasons given in annex 6 of the above report. 

2.12 The delegation of Republic of Korea thanked GESAMP-BWWG for the 

recommendations regarding the ballast water management system described in document 

MEPC 58/2/3 and indicated that all these recommendations were being carefully addressed and a 

new proposal for Final Approval would be submitted for re-evaluation by the GESAMP-BWWG 

and subsequent consideration by the Committee at its fifty-ninth session. 

Future work of the GESAMP-BWWG 

2.13 The Committee, having considered the information provided by the Secretariat, 

noted the suggested time schedule for the eighth meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG 

(16 to 20 February 2009) and invited Members to submit their proposals for approval 

(application dossiers) and the non-confidential description of their ballast water management 

systems to MEPC 59, as soon as possible but not later than 19 December 2008. 

2.14 Recognizing the need to facilitate the timely development of ballast water treatment 

technologies to alleviate the concerns of the shipping industry regarding their availability and 

recognizing also, based on previous experience, that a maximum of three application dossiers 

could be reviewed at any one meeting, the Committee agreed that an additional meeting of 

the GESAMP-BWWG could be organized if more than three proposals for approval of ballast 

water management systems are received for the same session of the MEPC in accordance with an 

established deadline. 

2.15 In that context, the Committee agreed further that the reports of such additional meetings 

would be processed as a matter of urgency with the necessary relaxation of the deadline, to 

facilitate their consideration during the following session of the MEPC and that only the main 

body of the GESAMP-BWWG’s reports be translated in all the three working languages with the 

annexes in English only. 

METHODOLOGY FOR INFORMATION GATHERING AND THE CONDUCT OF WORK OF 

GESAMP-BWWG (THE METHODOLOGY)

2.16 The Committee noted that the GESAMP-BWWG had continued to develop 

the Methodology during its sixth and seventh meetings to ensure it accurately reflects the 

provisions of the revised Procedure (G9) and that the updated version of the Methodology was 

contained in annex 4 of the “Report of the sixth meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” 

(MEPC 58/2/7). 

2.17 After the introduction by the Co-Chairman of the GESAMP-BWWG and some 

discussion, the Committee endorsed the updated version of the Methodology and took action as 

outlined in the following paragraphs. 
 - 11 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Human Exposure Scenario (HES)

2.18 The Committee noted the Group’s intention to further develop the sections related 

to Human Exposure Scenario, taking into account comments in document BLG 12/5/8 

(United States) and the experience of other Administrations. The Committee invited interested 

Members and observers to send their comments and suggestions on Human Exposure Scenario to 

the Secretariat with the understanding that they will be disseminated to the members of 

the GESAMP-BWWG to facilitate their consideration. 

Review of the relationship between Procedure (G9) and Guidelines (G8) 

2.19 The Committee agreed to the GESAMP-BWWG’s clarification, contained in section 3.3 

of the “Report of the sixth meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC 58/2/7), on why analytic 

ballast water toxicity tests should be conducted immediately after treatment, at the middle, and at 

the end of the five-day period required in the Guidelines for approval of ballast water 

management systems (G8) and on how this information will be used in the evaluation. 

2.20 The Committee concurred with the view of the GESAMP-BWWG that, in addition to 

the testing required by paragraphs 5.2.2, 5.2.3 and 5.2.4 of Procedure (G9), from a pragmatic 

standpoint in the context of toxicity tests during land-based testing, the following information 

would provide adequate safeguards for the environment: 

.1 acute toxicity testing using fish, invertebrates and plants; or 

.2 chemical analysis demonstrating that there is no significant negative changes 

during the five–day tank holding time in the chemical by-products; or 

.3 both chemical analysis and acute aquatic toxicity testing, 

immediately after treatment and after 24 or 48 hours.

Logistical costs and timing implication of the proposal for screening of ballast water 

management systems and pre-evaluating the testing facilities 

2.21 The Committee noted that the GESAMP-BWWG, having considered the logistical 

costs and timing implication related to the proposals contained in document BLG 12/5/10 

(Norway), had identified a number of aspects, as indicated in section 3.4 of the “Report of 

the sixth meeting of the GESAMP-BWWG” (MEPC58/2/7), that did not support the 

approach proposed. In that context, the Committee noted the strategic objective of 

the GloBallast Programme to develop a “Guidance Manual for Ballast Water Treatment 

Technology Test Facilities” and the GESAMP-BWWG’s willingness to designate its 

representatives to attend the intended GloBallast Workshop for the development of such 

guidance to present the Group’s expectations regarding the testing facilities and their procedures. 

Further development of the Methodology 

2.22 The Committee agreed to the GESAMP-BWWG’s proposal to explore the possibility of 

developing or adapting one model with the same basic parameters when calculating Predicted 

Environmental Concentrations (PEC) used in the risk assessment of the ballast water discharge. 

The Committee further agreed that additional time should be allocated to take stock of the 

experience achieved during the first seven meetings and to discuss the lessons learned and the 
MEPC 58/23 - 12 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

general aspects related to the evaluation process without the pressure of having to review specific 

submissions. 

2.23 Following an intervention by the delegation of CEFIC with regard to 

the GESAMP-BWWG’s proposal to develop a database containing toxicological, 

ecotoxicological data and appropriate physical properties for chemical by-products produced by 

most of the ballast water management systems, the Committee requested the Ballast Water 

Review Group to consider the suggestions by CEFIC and advise the Committee accordingly. 

Submission of proposals for approval of ballast water management systems

2.24 The Committee invited Members to bring Procedure (G9) and the Methodology to the 

attention of concerned Administrations and to advise the applicants to structure their 

applications in accordance with the Methodology. The Committee reiterated its request to 

the Administrations to evaluate the application dossier and confirm that it is satisfactory and 

complete before submitting to the Organization in accordance with Procedure (G9). 

OUTCOME OF THE WORK OF THE BLG SUB-COMMITTEE RELEVANT TO BALLAST WATER 

MANAGEMENT

2.25 Following consideration of document MEPC 58/2/5 on the outcome of BLG 12 and 

having noted that document MEPC 58/2/6 “Report of the Working Group on development 

of Guidelines for uniform implementation of the 2004 BWM Convention (Part 2)” had already 

been introduced in the Ballast Water Review Group and will be reported upon in the Group’s 

report (MEPC 58/WP.6), the Committee recalled that the sections related to the outcome of 

Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2) had been referred to the Ballast Water Review Group 

for further consideration. 

2.26 Also with regard to Guidelines (G2), the delegation of the Bahamas reiterated the concern 

expressed at BLG 12 that a shipowner who purchased and correctly operated type-approved 

equipment would be subject to control and prosecution through no fault of their own. To alleviate 

this concern and provide some certainty, the delegation of the Bahamas suggested that, before 

initiating any action related to prosecution, the port State control officer should inform the 

shipowners on the outcome of the port State control inspection in writing and advise them to 

rectify the non-compliance aspects before returning to the respective country or port. Noting also 

the suggestions by the United States, the Marshall Islands and FOEI that, being an issue of 

enforcement, this matter could be better addressed by FSI Sub-Committee, the Committee 

requested the Ballast Water Review Group to consider the suggestions above and advise the 

Committee accordingly. 

2.27 Noting that BLG 12 had finalized the guidance document regarding the arrangements for 

responding to emergency situations involving ballast water operations, the Committee approved 

the guidance document, set out in annex 2 to document BLG 12/17, and instructed the Secretariat 

to issue a technical circular on this matter. 

2.28 The Committee, having noted that the Ballast Water Working Group established 

at BLG 12 was not able to address all the terms of reference due to the time constraints and the 

large volume of work assigned, endorsed the Sub-Committee’s authorization to the Group to 

continue its work until the end of BLG 12 session and submit Part 2 of its report directly 

to MEPC 58. 
 - 13 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.29 The Committee noted further that the Ballast Water Working Group would be 

re-established during BLG 13 and endorsed its Terms of Reference, set out at annex 3 of 

document BLG 12/17. 

2.30 In view of the significant volume of work required for the timely and effective 

implementation of the BWM Convention, the Committee agreed to change the title of agenda 

item “Development of guidelines for uniform implementation of the 2004 BWM Convention” 

to “Development of guidelines and other documents for uniform implementation of 

the 2004 BWM Convention” as a high-priority item of the work programme of 

the BLG Sub-Committee with a target completion date of 2010. 

REVIEW OF BALLAST WATER TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES

2.31 The Committee noted that five documents, MEPC 58/2/10 (Brazil), 

MEPC 58/2/12 (Norway), MEPC 58/INF.8 (the Netherlands), MEPC 58/INF.9 (United Kingdom) 

and MEPC 58/INF.17 (Germany) providing information on the development of ballast water 

treatment technologies had been submitted to facilitate the review.

2.32 The Committee noted the information regarding the type approval certification of 

two ballast water management systems granted by the Administrations of Norway and Germany 

to Pure Ballast and SEDNA®, as contained in documents MEPC 58/2/12 and MEPC 58/INF.17, 

respectively. 

2.33 The Committee noted with appreciation the information in document MEPC 58/INF.8 

(the Netherlands) on the testing facility for ballast water treatment technologies at 

the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) and document MEPC 58/INF.9 

(United Kingdom) on the update of the Industry Guide commissioned by Lloyd’s Register on the 

current status, availability and specifications of ballast water management systems. 

2.34 After a brief discussion, the Committee agreed to refer the five documents mentioned 

above to the Ballast Water Review Group for further consideration. 

OTHER INFORMATION RELATED TO BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL 

2.35 The Committee noted the information provided in document MEPC 58/INF.4 

(ROPME/MEMAC) on the First Regional Steering Committee Meeting on ballast water 

management held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 27 to 29 January 2008 and the information 

provided by India in document MEPC 58/INF.12 on deliberations at the International Conference 

on Bio-fouling and Ballast Water Management held from 5 to 7 February 2008, in Goa, India. 

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE BALLAST WATER REVIEW GROUP 

2.36 Having completed the consideration of all the sub-items under this agenda item, 

the Committee agreed to establish the Ballast Water Review Group with the following terms of 

reference: 

“Taking into consideration comments made in plenary, the Ballast Water Review Group 

is instructed to: 

.1 further consider the Methodology for information gathering and the conduct of 

work of the GESAMP-BWWG contained in annex 4 to document MEPC 57/2/10, 

and advise the Committee on how to address the recommendations made by 
MEPC 58/23 - 14 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

the GESAMP-BWWG during its fourth and fifth meetings, contained in action 

items 1 to 4 of document MEPC 57/2 and action item 1 of document 

MEPC 57/2/10; 

.2 consider the provisions in resolution A.1005(25) and review the issue of a ship 

subject to regulation B-3.3 constructed in 2010 and the immediate availability of 

type-approved technology for such a ship to meet the D-2 standard by: 

.1 refining and applying the existing review methodology employed 

at MEPC 53 and MEPC 55; 

.2 assessing the number of vessels to be constructed in 2010 that will need 

ballast water treatment technology; 

.3 identifying the current status of ballast water treatment technologies and 

providing an estimate of how many of them will be available for ships 

constructed in 2010; 

.4 taking into account paragraphs 2.2 and 2.3 above, evaluate whether there is 

sufficient type-approved technology for ships subject to regulation B-3.3 

constructed in 2010; and 

.5 if it is concluded that the immediate availability of type-approved 

technology for such ships is insufficient, recommend an appropriate course 

of action for consideration by the Committee; 

.3 complete the work on the draft Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2) with a 

view to finalizing these Guidelines providing the needed certainty and recommend 

these Guidelines for adoption by an MEPC resolution taking into account the 

existing draft (BLG 12/17, annex 1) and any further submissions; 

.4 consider procedural aspects regarding the submission of proposals for approval of 

ballast water management systems that make use of Active Substances as 

discussed at MEPC 57 and, in particular, regarding the communication between 

the GESAMP-BWWG and the applicants; 

.5 consider any additional changes to the Guidelines for approval of ballast water 

management systems (G8) based on the draft text provided in annex 3 of the 

report of the Ballast Water Review Group (MEPC 57/WP.5) and develop an 

amended version of these Guidelines for adoption by an MEPC resolution; 

.6 continue to consider document BLG 12/5/10 to identify the possible impacts and 

implications of the proposed arrangements on the GESAMP-BWWG and the 

availability of technologies; 

 .7 continue to consider document MEPC 57/2/12 to identify whether shipboard 

testing requirements contained in Guidelines (G8) should be changed; and 

 .8 submit a written report to plenary on Thursday, 9 October 2008.” 
 - 15 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.37 Having noted that apart from 2.36.2 and 2.36.8 all the other terms of reference listed in 

paragraph 2.36 above had been already addressed by the Ballast Water Review Group, the 

Committee requested the Group to focus on the review of the availability of treatment 

technologies and resolution A.1005(25). 

CONSIDERATION OF THE REPORT OF THE BALLAST WATER REVIEW GROUP 

2.38 Upon receipt of the report of the Ballast Water Review Group (MEPC 58/WP.6), the 

Committee approved it in general and took action as outlined in the following paragraphs. 

Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2) 

2.39 The Committee recalled that BLG 12, having completed its work on the Guidelines for 

ballast water sampling (G2) (BLG 12/17, annex 1), invited MEPC 58 to adopt these Guidelines 

by an MEPC resolution and, at the same time, invited the delegations concerned with the lack of 

certainty in the current version of these Guidelines to submit relevant proposals to MEPC 58 to 

enhance the certainty and ensure the much needed uniformity. 

2.40 The Committee noted the need to finalize Guidelines (G2) to allow countries which are 

dependent upon the full set of 14 Guidelines to ratify the Convention to do so and to minimize 

the risk of individual States taking unilateral action. 

2.41 The Committee noted that the Review Group had considered documents MEPC 58/2/11 

(Brazil), MEPC 58/2/13 (ICS), MEPC 58/INF.10 (Japan) and MEPC 58/INF.23 (FOEI), 

commenting on Guidelines (G2). 

2.42 The Committee noted that the text of Guidelines (G2), with the exception of section 6, 

seemed to be acceptable to all the participants and therefore the Group used the text provided 

by ICS in document MEPC 58/2/13 as a basis for further refining paragraph 6.2. Following 

considerable exchange of views on the text proposed, some delegations agreed to the text 

proposed by ICS, with the exception of the wording “whole” in paragraph 6.2.2. It was suggested 

that removing that word would not significantly change the meaning of the paragraph and would 

still provide useful guidance for taking representative samples. Other delegations were of the 

view that the word “whole” had a specific meaning and therefore could not agree with the 

removal. The Chairman of the Review Group then suggested to use the text provided by ICS 

with the word “whole” in square brackets to replace the chapeau of paragraph 6.2 and 

subparagraphs 6.2.1 to 6.2.3 of the existing version of the draft Guidelines (G2). After a final 

review of the whole document, the Review Group unanimously agreed that there were no other 

changes recommended to the text of these Guidelines. 

2.43 Having noted the additional explanation provided by ICS, supported by several other 

delegations, the Committee agreed to delete the square brackets around the word “whole” in 

paragraph 6.2.2 and to adopt the Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2) (see 

paragraph 2.63.1). The Committee also agreed to instruct the BLG Sub-Committee to develop, 

as a matter of high priority, an IMO circular to provide sampling and analysis guidance to be 

followed and to give advice on the uniform application of that guidance. The Committee further 

agreed to request the FSI Sub-Committee to take note of Guidelines (G2), after their adoption, 

when developing the Guidelines on port State control under the 2004 BWM Convention. 
MEPC 58/23 - 16 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.44 Following a proposal from Brazil regarding the need for technical co-operation to ensure 

uniformity in implementing these Guidelines, the Committee agreed to explore together with the 

Technical Co-operation Division of the Organization the possibility of providing such technical 

co-operation and to invite Member States to share their knowledge and experience on sampling 

and analysis. 

Revision of the Guidelines for approval of ballast water management system (G8) 

2.45 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57, having considered a number of submissions 

commenting on the revision of Guidelines (G8), had prepared a draft of the revised Guidelines (G8), 

which incorporates changes to ensure appropriate appraisal of environmental toxicity during 

the Type Approval process for systems not subject to Procedure (G9) as agreed by MEPC 56. 

2.46 The Committee recalled further that, having considered the comments of the Review 

Group on document MEPC 57/2/12 (Norway) proposing changes to concentration levels of test 

organisms during shipboard tests stipulated in Guidelines (G8), MEPC 57 could not agree with 

the changes proposed and referred the document to MEPC 58 for further consideration. 

2.47 The Committee noted that, during the discussion, Norway had proposed that, instead of 

the proposals in document MEPC 57/2/12 to change the size of organisms in challenge water, 

only one of the three shipboard tests should fulfil the pre-treatment organism concentrations. 

After considerable discussions, this proposal was not supported by the Group. 

2.48 After some discussion, the Committee agreed to adopt the revised Guidelines for approval 

of ballast water management systems (G8) (see paragraph 2.63.6). 

2.49 Following a proposal by the United States, supported by some other delegations, the 

Committee agreed to invite Member States to provide information on their experiences regarding 

shipboard testing and test results. 

2.50 The Committee noted the information provided by the United Kingdom in 

document MEPC 58/2/9 on draft United Kingdom Type Approval Guidelines for ballast water 

management systems and invited Members to contribute to the further development of such 

guidance at BLG 13. 

2.51 The observer of FOEI informed that difficulty has been reported for ships to find 

appropriate challenge water to ensure satisfactory completion of shipboard tests to verify 

compliance with the D-2 standard for type approval in accordance with the Guidelines (G8). 

There appeared to be a variation in opinion amongst the marine biological scientific community 

on the matter and therefore, FOEI invited the Administrations to submit papers to BLG 13 on the 

density and range of planktonic organisms relevant to the testing protocol contained in 

Guidelines (G8), including seasonal variation in their waters, to assist in planning the type of ship 

and the voyage itinerary undertaken during the shipboard testing of a ballast water management 

system in accordance with the above Guidelines. 

Methodology for information gathering and the conduct of work of the GESAMP-BWWG 

2.52 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had instructed the BWRG to consider the 

Methodology for information gathering and the conduct of work of the GESAMP-BWWG, 

contained in annex 4 of document MEPC 57/2/10 in light of the actions requested from the 

Committee in documents MEPC 57/2 and MEPC 57/2/10. In the time available, the Group was 
 - 17 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

not able to consider all the action items in the two documents above, which were added to the 

draft terms of reference for the Ballast Water Review Group convened at MEPC 58. 

2.53 The Committee noted further that, as a consequence of the adoption of the 

revised Procedure (G9), MEPC 57 had requested the GESAMP-BWWG to harmonize 

the Methodology with the revised Procedure and continue to develop the Human Exposure 

Scenario, which made most of the action items contained in documents MEPC 57/2 and 

MEPC 57/2/10 redundant. With regard to the last action point on Assessment Factors contained 

in document MEPC 57/2, which was not redundant, the GESAMP-BWWG had requested further 

guidance from the MEPC. 

2.54 Having noted the explanation received from the Co-Chairman of the GESAMP-BWWG 

on the use of the Assessment Factors, the Committee agreed that when only two chronic 

Non-Observed Effect Concentrations (NOECs) are available for use in the marine risk assessment and 

if chronic tests included the most sensitive organism from the acute set of three tests, an Assessment 

Factor (AF) of 100 could be used on a case-by-case basis. If the most sensitive group is not 

included, then an AF of 1000 should be applied. 

2.55 Having noted that the BWRG had agreed in principle with a number of editorial changes 

with respect to the GESAMP-BWWG Methodology, the Committee invited the 

GESAMP-BWWG to consider the proposed changes to the Methodology at their earliest 

opportunity and instructed the Secretariat to forward these changes to the GESAMP-BWWG. 

Procedural aspects regarding the submission of proposals for approval of ballast water 

management systems 

2.56 Following the examination of the views regarding the submission of proposals for 

approval of ballast water management systems, expressed by the GESAMP-BWWG in 

paragraph 4.1.1 of document MEPC 58/2/8, and the additional information provided by the 

Co-Chairman of the GESAMP-BWWG as well as the suggestion to have better track changes in 

the Methodology, the Committee noted the positive developments in this respect and the 

availability of GESAMP-BWWG to further improve the communication with the proponent 

Administrations. 

Draft MEPC resolution on “Information reporting on type approved ballast water 

management systems” 

2.57 Following consideration of the draft text of the MEPC resolution on “Information reporting 

on type approved ballast water management systems”, developed at BLG 12, and the changes made 

by the BWRG, the Committee agreed to adopt the resolution (see paragraph 2.63.10). 

Additional explanation provided by the delegation of Brazil on document MEPC 55/2/20 

 

2.58 The Committee noted the additional information regarding document MEPC 55/2/20, 

provided by Brazil, and agreed to include an additional term of reference for the Ballast Water 

Working Group to be established at BLG 13 on the long-term effects, maintenance and reliability 

of Ballast Water Management Systems. 
MEPC 58/23 - 18 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Review of the availability of ballast water treatment technologies

2.59 The Committee recalled the conclusion reached at MEPC 56 that a limited number of 

ballast water treatment technologies would be available to meet the first implementation date of 

the BWM Convention together with the concerns regarding the capability of all ships subject to 

regulation B-3.3 to meet the D-2 standard in 2009 due to procedural and logistical problems. 

The Committee further recalled that, following an initiative by the Secretary-General to address 

these concerns, the Assembly, at its twenty-fifth session, had adopted resolution A.1005(25) on 

the Application of the BWM Convention, which calls on States that have not yet done so, to 

ratify the Convention as soon as possible. In the meantime, the resolution recommends that ships 

subject to regulation B-3.3 constructed in 2009 should not be required to comply with 

regulation D-2 until their second annual survey, but no later than 31 December 2011. 

Operative paragraph 6 of resolution A.1005(25) requests the Committee to: 

.1 keep this resolution under review; 

.2 revise or withdraw the recommendations in paragraphs 2, 3 and 4 as appropriate; 

.3 review, not later than at its fifty-eighth session, in particular, the issue of a ship 

subject to regulation B-3.3 constructed in 2010 and the immediate availability of 

type-approved technology for such a ship to meet the D-2 standard; and 

.4 inform the Assembly accordingly. 

2.60 Having examined the conclusions of the Review Group regarding the number of new 

buildings over the next two years and the current status of ballast water treatment technologies, 

the Committee concluded that ballast water treatment technologies were currently available and 

more technologies would be available in the near future. With regard to whether there are 

sufficient type-approved technologies for ships subject to regulation B-3.3 constructed in 2010, 

the Committee agreed that this issue would be better defined at MEPC 59. Consequently, the 

Committee agreed to re-establish the Ballast Water Review Group at MEPC 59, to confirm 

whether there is sufficient type-approved technology for ships subject to regulation B-3.3 

constructed in 2010, as instructed by Assembly resolution A.1005(25). 

Additional matters raised during the preliminary discussions in plenary 

2.61 Having examined the views expressed by the Group on the proposal by Bahamas 

regarding the situation when a sample taken from a ship is not in compliance with the 

standard D-2, the Committee agreed that Guidelines (G2) contained technical guidance and that 

matters related to enforcement could be better dealt with by the FSI Sub-Committee, which is 

currently developing the Guidelines for port State control under the 2004 BWM Convention. 

The Committee agreed that the delegation of the Bahamas and other interested delegations could 

provide their proposals on this matter to either the FSI Sub-Committee or to the Correspondence 

Group established by the Sub-Committee in this respect. 

2.62 Following the examination of the comment made by CEFIC regarding the 

GESAMP-BWWG’s proposal to develop a database (see paragraph 2.23 above) and the 

conclusions of the Review Group on this matter, the Committee approved the proposal and 

advised the GESAMP-BWWG that any open database should be limited to data describing 

chemical by-products formed during ballast water treatment and should not contain proprietary 

information. 
 - 19 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Action taken by the Committee 

2.63 Having considered the actions requested by the Review Group and the comments made 

by the various delegations, the Committee: 

.1 adopted the Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2) by resolution 

MEPC.173(58), as set out in annex 3; 

.2 instructed the BLG Sub-Committee to develop, as a high-priority matter, 

an IMO circular to provide sampling and analysis guidance to be followed and to 

give advice on the uniform application of that guidance; 

.3 instructed the FSI Sub-Committee to take into account the 

Guidelines (G2) when developing the Guidelines on port State control 

under the 2004 BWM Convention; 

.4 agreed to explore, together with the Technical Co-operation Division of the 

Organization, the possibility of providing technical cooperation to ensure uniform 

implementation of the Guidelines (G2); 

.5 requested Member States to share information on experience gained in shipboard 

testing; 

.6 adopted the revised Guidelines for approval of ballast water management 

systems (G8) by resolution MEPC.174(58), as set out in annex 4; 

.7 requested Member States to provide contributions to the further development of 

guidance on conducting type approvals to BLG 13; 

 .8 endorsed the GESAMP-BWWG’s view regarding the Assessment Factor 

contained in paragraph 4.2 of document MEPC 57/2 and concurred with the view 

that when only two chronic NOECs are available for use in the marine risk 

assessment and if chronic tests include the most sensitive organism from the acute 

set of three tests, an Assessment Factor of 100 could be used on a case-by-case 

basis. If the most sensitive group is not included, then an Assessment Factor 

of 1000 should be applied; 

 .9 requested the GESAMP-BWWG to consider the proposed changes to the 

Methodology at their earliest opportunity; 

 .10 adopted resolution MEPC.175(58) on “Information reporting on type approved 

ballast water management systems”, as set out in annex 5; 

 .11 included an additional term of reference on the long-term effects, maintenance and 

reliability of Ballast Water Management Systems in the terms of reference for the 

Ballast Water Working Group to be established at BLG 13; 

 .12 concurred with the view that ballast water treatment technologies are 

currently available and more technologies will be available in the near 

future and agreed to re-establish the Ballast Water Review Group at 

MEPC 59 to confirm whether there are sufficient type-approved technologies for 
MEPC 58/23 - 20 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ships subject to regulation B-3.3 constructed in 2010, as instructed by 

Assembly resolution A.1005(25); 

.13 concurred with the view that Guidelines (G2) are technical guidance and 

that matters related to enforcement could be better dealt with by the 

FSI Sub-Committee; and 

.14 approved action point 9 of the report of the sixth meeting of the 

GESAMP-BWWG (MEPC 58/2/7) and advised the GESAMP-BWWG that any 

open database should be limited to data describing chemical by-products formed 

during ballast water treatment and should not contain proprietary information. 

3 RECYCLING OF SHIPS 

3.1 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had made substantial progress in the further 

development of the draft International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound 

Recycling of Ships. 

3.2 The Committee also recalled that MEPC 57 had agreed to prepare a draft resolution to be 

adopted by the diplomatic conference addressing the adequacy of ship recycling capacity. 

For this purpose MEPC 57 had established a correspondence group under the coordination of the 

United Kingdom and had instructed it to prepare a draft resolution to address the circumstances 

in which sufficient recycling capacity may not be available both before and following 

entry-into-force of the convention. MEPC 57 had intended that the draft resolution should: 

encourage States to ratify the convention (when adopted) at the earliest opportunity; address 

disincentives for flag and recycling States to ratify the convention; not conflict with the 

requirements of the convention itself; and not require any amendments to the text of the 

convention as drafted. The correspondence group had also been instructed to consider the draft 

resolution in the context of the entry-into-force provisions. 

3.3 MEPC 57 had also agreed that there was a strong need for holding an intersessional 

meeting of the Working Group on Ship Recycling, of four day duration, the week before 

MEPC 58, in order to consider and resolve any outstanding issues and corresponding text of the 

draft convention and to prepare a final version of the draft convention for an Article-by-Article 

and regulation-by-regulation review by MEPC 58, with a view to approval for circulation in time 

for the diplomatic conference to be hosted by Hong Kong, China, from 11 to 15 May 2009. 

3.4 The Committee noted that the fourth intersessional meeting of the Working Group on 

Ship Recycling had been held at IMO Headquarters from 30 September to 3 October 2008 under 

the chairmanship of Mr. Jens Henning Koefoed (Norway). 

PLANNING OF THE WORK

3.5 The Committee recalled that the report of the correspondence group on ship recycling had 

been submitted by the United Kingdom as document MEPC 58/3/3 and the report of the fourth 

intersessional meeting of the working group on ship recycling had been submitted to the 

Committee as document MEPC 58/WP.4. In addition, a further 17 documents had been 

submitted addressing: the draft convention; the guidelines to the draft convention for the 

Inventory and for the Recycling Facilities; the issue of technical cooperation; ISO’s response to 

the questions raised by document MEPC 57/3/14; the decisions of the ninth meeting of the 

Conference of the Parties to the Basel Convention; and the resolution of the European Parliament 

on the Green Paper on better ship dismantling. 
 - 21 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.6 The Committee noted that it needed to undertake an Article-by-Article and 

regulation-by-regulation review of the draft convention, prior to its approval for circulation to the 

diplomatic conference. Furthermore, as the intersessional working group had already addressed 

documents dealing with the draft convention and the draft guidelines, and had also considered the 

report of the correspondence group, the Committee agreed that plenary should only consider the 

following issues: 

.1 technical cooperation on ship recycling (document MEPC 58/3); 

.2 ISO’s response to the questions raised by document MEPC 57/3/14 (document 

MEPC 58/3/5); 

.3 the report of the ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Basel 

Convention (document MEPC 58/3/9); and 

.4 the report of the fourth intersessional meeting of the Working Group on Ship 

Recycling (document MEPC 58/WP.4). 

OUTCOME OF THE COMMITTEE’S CONSIDERATIONS

Technical cooperation on ship recycling 

3.7 The Secretariat, in introducing document MEPC 58/3 on the outcome of the 

fifty-eighth session of the Technical Co-operation Committee (TC 58) on the issue of the 

implementation of the new convention, recalled that MEPC 57 had invited the Technical 

Co-operation Committee to provide its views on mechanisms which can be developed through 

the Technical Co-operation Programme of the Organization to facilitate, at national level, the 

implementation of the standards contained in the convention concerning recycling yards in 

developing countries. Furthermore, the Committee had invited the Technical Co-operation 

Committee to identify potential sources of funding. 

3.8 TC 58 was held from 10 to 12 June 2008 and had suggested that the Technical 

Co-operation Committee, in collaboration with the MEPC, should work towards the development 

of a programme of training and capacity enhancement of maritime administrations that would 

assist Member States to understand and implement the convention. 

3.9 The Committee was also reminded that the third session of the Joint ILO-IMO-Basel 

Convention Working Group on Ship Scrapping was due to be hosted by ILO in Geneva 

from 29 to 31 October 2008 and that the two main items on the provisional agenda of that 

meeting were: “joint technical co-operation projects” and “interim measures to be taken prior to 

the entry-into-force of the convention”. 

ISO’s response to the questions raised in document MEPC 57/3/14 

3.10 The ISO observer introduced document MEPC 58/3/5 responding to the questions posed 

in paragraph 18 of document MEPC 57/3/14, clarifying related matters and providing the current 

status of the ISO work items, as had been requested by MEPC 57; and re-stating that the 

ISO standards would not overlap or contradict the relevant IMO provisions. Should this be the 

case, ISO would immediately take action to rectify the relevant standards. 
MEPC 58/23 - 22 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.11 In response to the information provided by the ISO, the delegation of Japan, supported by 

China, India and France, pointed out that the ISO 30000 series would duplicate some of the 

provisions in the draft IMO convention and its associated guidelines and thus would create 

confusion to stakeholders. Japan stressed that MEPC had never requested the ISO to develop 

management standards on ship recycling. 

3.12 The delegation of India further explained that the ISO 30000 series is a “business to 

business” certification scheme and not a “government to business” scheme as mandated by the 

draft IMO convention for the authorization of recycling facilities by recycling States. In India’s 

opinion, the ISO 30000 series was therefore inconsistent with the provisions of the convention. 

3.13 The Committee agreed that it had never requested ISO to develop a management standard 

for ship recycling and, furthermore, saw no reason at the present time for ISO to develop such a 

standard. 

Report of the ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Basel Convention 

3.14 The Secretariat of the Basel Convention introduced document MEPC 58/3/9 reporting on 

the outcome and decisions of the ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Basel 

Convention (COP 9) on the subject of environmentally sound management of ship dismantling. 

The Committee noted that COP 9 had recognized and welcomed the progress made by IMO; had 

invited IMO to continue to have due regard to the role, competence and expertise of the Basel 

Convention in matters relating to ship dismantling; and had defined a process by which it 

intended to assess whether the ship recycling convention would establish an equivalent level of 

control as that established under the Basel Convention. Also, COP 9 had noted once again in its 

decision that the duplication of regulatory instruments that have the same objective should be 

avoided. 

3.15 The Committee also noted that the seventh session of the Open-ended Working Group of 

the Basel Convention is scheduled to meet from 10 to 14 May 2010 to carry out a preliminary 

assessment of the equivalent level of control between the two conventions in their entirety and 

then to transmit the results of its consideration to COP 10, scheduled to be held in 2011. In this 

respect COP 9 had invited Parties to provide, by 31 January 2009, to the Secretariat of the Basel 

Convention comments on appropriate criteria to be used in such a preliminary assessment. 

3.16 The Committee noted further that COP 9 had welcomed the joint technical co-operation 

programmes relating to sustainable ship recycling developed by the Basel Convention, the 

International Maritime Organization and the International Labour Organization. 

European Parliament’s resolution on the Green Paper on better ship dismantling 

3.17 The Committee also noted document MEPC 58/INF.16, providing information on the 

European Parliament’s resolution on the Green Paper on better ship dismantling. 

Report of the fourth intersessional meeting of the Working Group on Ship Recycling 

3.18 The Chairman of the intersessional working group, Mr. Jens Koefoed (Norway), 

introduced the group’s report (MEPC 58/WP.4). The Committee noted that the group, using the 

text contained in annex 1 of document MEPC 57/WP.6 as the basic text of the draft convention, 

considered outstanding issues and agreed on the corresponding text of the draft convention. 

A final version of the draft convention had been prepared for an Article-by-Article and 

regulation-by-regulation review by MEPC 58. 
 - 23 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Further development of the text of the draft convention – Articles 

3.19 The Committee noted that document MEPC 58/3/13 (India) had proposed that warships 

should be included under the scope of the convention. The Committee, after some discussion, 

agreed that warships should not be included as long as they retain their sovereign immunity and 

also that when warships are decommissioned and then sold to commercial interests, they may 

lose their sovereign immunity and at that stage they could come under the scope of the 

convention. The Committee had therefore agreed that there may be a need to develop a guidance 

document in the future. 

3.20 The Committee also noted that document MEPC 58/INF.13 (European Commission) had 

proposed a specific format for the reporting requirements under Article 12.1, whereby Parties 

shall provide a list of Ship Recycling Facilities to the Organization for dissemination. During the 

discussion, it was pointed out that the information sought in the proposal already existed in the 

form of the Authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities and in its Supplement and that, therefore, 

Parties should simply provide the Organization with copies of the above. The Committee agreed 

that the reporting requirements under Article 12.1 should be specified in a Committee Circular 

rather than in the text of the convention. 

3.21 In connection with the square brackets in Article 15.2, the Committee noted that there had 

been a considerable exchange of views in the working group revolving around three possible 

options: (a) deletion of the text after “international agreements” on the second line; (b) deletion 

of the square brackets and retention of the text “and the Basel Convention”; (c) deletion of the 

square brackets and of the text. The representative of IMO’s Legal Office had expressed the 

view that the expression “Nothing in this Convention shall prejudice the rights and 

responsibilities of Parties under other relevant and applicable international agreements” meant 

that the arrangements in place under those agreements are preserved and therefore are not 

disturbed or altered one way or another for States which are also Party to this convention. 

Furthermore, the representative of ILO had drawn the attention of the working group that the 

present text was a carefully drawn compromise. The delegation of Cyprus had requested to be 

associated with the statement of the ILO. There had been no consensus and it had therefore been 

decided to bring this matter to the Committee for its decision. 

Recycling capacity concerns and entry-into-force conditions 

3.22 The Committee noted that, during the discussion of the working group on Article 17 

(Entry into force), the United Kingdom as the coordinator of the correspondence group had 

introduced its report (MEPC 58/3/3) noting that it presented the majority but not the unanimous 

view of the group. 

3.23 The Committee noted that, as described in document MEPC 58/3/3, a variety of 

views had been expressed in the correspondence group. Amongst those views, a majority of 

the participants had agreed that it is not feasible to draft a conference resolution for ensuring 

sufficient recycling capacity following the entry into force of the convention, without conflicting 

with the requirements of the convention itself. Instead, the group had agreed that the 

entry-into-force provisions and conditions are a possible way of addressing the recycling capacity 

problem. 
MEPC 58/23 - 24 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.24 The Committee was also advised that the working group had also considered: document 

MEPC 57/3/13 (Japan) on a method for calculating ship recycling capacity based on historic 

published data; document MEPC 58/3/12 (Bangladesh) proposing a criterion for assessing 

recycling capacity on the basis of five States, each having at least five authorized Ship Recycling 

Facilities; and document MEPC 58/3/14 (India) proposing a variation of Option 2 of the report of 

the correspondence group. 

3.25 The Committee noted that the group had seen merit in aspects of all the above proposals 

and had an extensive discussion on the issue of ship recycling capacity. It had been recognized 

that overcapacity may be a problem in the future, as a few key recycling States control a large 

proportion of the world’s recycling capacity. The majority of the group had agreed that 

Article 17 should include a capacity criterion. Some members of the group had recognized that 

the proposals by Japan and India offered a straightforward mechanism, while some members still 

favoured the concept in the proposal by Bangladesh and considered that this concept captured the 

need for compliant ship recycling capacity to be available at the entry into force of the 

convention. Some members had expressed serious concerns over the use of historical data to 

calculate recycling capacity. 

3.26 The Committee was advised that during the discussion, the representative of IMO’s 

Legal Office had reiterated his view that there was no problem in principle in having recycling 

capacity as an element in the entry-into-force provisions, but it would be necessary to have 

clarity and precision on how the recycling capacity was to be objectively determined by 

the Depositary. The group had agreed that if a capacity criterion were to be included in the 

entry-into-force conditions, a diplomatic conference resolution would be needed to specify the 

exact method for the assessment of the convention’s entry into force by the Depositary. 

3.27 The Committee noted that the group had developed text for Article 17 with square 

brackets around the criteria. The United Kingdom had reserved its position about the inclusion of 

this text in the draft convention as this could prejudice other options. 

Further development of the text of the draft convention – Annex 

3.28 The Committee noted that the group had discussed the text proposed in document 

MEPC 58/3/12 (Bangladesh) for general exceptions to the provisions of the convention under 

regulation 3. The group had agreed that whereas the convention should not include such a 

regulation, the cases of abandoned and of wrecked ships may warrant the development of a 

guidance document at a future stage. 

3.29 The Committee also noted that on the basis of the proposal in document MEPC 58/3/11 

(France) the group had introduced in the draft Convention a voluntary audit scheme. According 

to this, recycling States will be able to introduce additional transparency to the process of the 

authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities by disseminating through the Organization the results 

of the audit scheme to interested stakeholders. This auditing scheme, which will be carried out by 

the Competent Authorities or an organization recognized by the Party, is intended to contribute to 

a more uniform implementation of the convention amongst volunteering Parties with Ship 

Recycling Facilities operating under their jurisdiction (regulation 16.3). 

3.30 The Committee noted further that extensive discussions had taken place throughout the 

meeting of the working group on the restructure of the reporting requirements under the 

convention as contained in regulation 25 based on proposals contained in documents 

MEPC 58/3/4 (Denmark) and MEPC 58/3/8 (Belgium and Turkey). The Group had agreed on 
 - 25 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

new text for regulation 25 and associated consequential amendments. The following benefits 

were pointed out as arising from this restructure: (a) increased certainty for the industry; 

(b) increased clarity and transparency; and (c) consent by the recycling State as early as practical 

and reasonable. 

Guidelines 

3.31 In view of the importance of adopting the Guidelines for the Inventory of Hazardous 

Materials and the Guidelines for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling as soon as 

possible after the adoption of the convention, the Committee noted that the Group had also 

considered the following three submissions relating to these guidelines: documents MEPC 58/3/2 

(Japan and Germany), MEPC 58/3/7 (Denmark) and MEPC 58/INF.18 (Japan). Acknowledging 

that it did not have sufficient time for a thorough review of the guidelines, the Group had agreed 

on the need for the establishment of a correspondence group for the development of these two 

guidelines with a view to their finalization, if possible, at MEPC 59. 

3.32 The ILO representative recalled the good and constructive working relationship that has 

existed between IMO and ILO over the years and noted that this co-operation had been given 

practical effect in Article 15 and in regulation 3 of the draft convention. The wording that was 

adopted ensured that the draft convention would not inadvertently place governments in 

a position where they must deal with inconsistent obligations between applicable ILO and 

IMO conventions. The ILO has a number of conventions and other instruments for protecting 

occupational health and safety in connection with ship recycling activities and it was suggested 

that these would need to be recognized in the new convention and its associated guidelines. 

3.33 The Committee approved the report of the intersessional working group in general and, in 

particular (annexes are those of document MEPC 58/WP.4): 

.1 noted that the working group had finalized its work on the development of the text of 

the draft convention, as set out in annex 1; 

.2 conducted an Article-by-Article and regulation-by-regulation review of the draft 

convention; and 

.3 established an intersessional correspondence group, under the coordination of 

Japan1, for the further development of the Guidelines for the Safe and 

Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling and the Guidelines for the Inventory of 

Hazardous Materials, with the following Terms of Reference: 

“On the basis of the outcomes of the 4th Intersessional Meeting of the 

Working Group on Ship Recycling and of MEPC 58, the Correspondence 

Group on Ship Recycling is instructed to: 

 

1

 Co-ordinator: 

Mr. Shinichiro OTSUBO 

Director for International Regulations 

Safety Standards Division 

Maritime Bureau 

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism 

Tel: +81-3-5253-8636 

Fax: +81-3-5253-1644 

E-mail: otsubo-s24r@mlit.go.jp
MEPC 58/23 - 26 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 further develop the text of the Guidelines for Safe and 

Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling and of the Guidelines for the 

Inventory of Hazardous Materials, taking into account proposals in 

documents: MEPC 58/3/2 (Japan and Germany), MEPC 58/3/7 

(Denmark), MEPC 58/3/10 (Germany) and MEPC 58/INF.18 (Japan), 

as well as proposals contained in relevant documents submitted to 

earlier sessions of the Committee; 

.2 if possible, finalize the Guidelines for Safe and Environmentally 

Sound Ship Recycling and the Guidelines for the Inventory of 

Hazardous Materials; and 

.3 report the outcome of its deliberations to MEPC 59.” 

3.34 During the Article-by-Article and regulation-by-regulation review in the plenary, the 

Committee considered the following comments made by delegations. 

3.35 Norway proposed to insert “Unless otherwise specified in this Convention” at the 

beginning of Article 3.3, for the purpose of allowing the application of the convention’s 

requirements to ships below 500 GT in regulation 4. The Committee did not support the proposal 

as it considered that it represented an expansion to the scope of the convention. Norway stated 

that it would submit a further proposal on this matter to the diplomatic conference. 

3.36 In relation to the second paragraph of Article 7, which the 4th intersessional working 

group had agreed to delete, the United States reaffirmed its concern that the convention needs to 

respect the confidentiality of trade secrets and of other proprietary information protected by 

national law. The United States indicated that it may submit a proposal to the diplomatic 

conference on this subject. 

3.37 In connection with the square brackets in Article 15.2, the representative of the Basel 

Convention noted the general agreement expressed during the development of the draft 

convention, that the Basel Convention would continue to apply to activities, to ship recycling 

facilities and to ships excluded from the scope of the ship recycling convention. 

The representative therefore suggested that an appropriate reference to the Basel Convention in 

the text of the convention may provide a useful indicator as to applicable regimes in the future. 

3.38 The representative of the International Labour Organization recalled that the text in 

Article 15.2 was the result of a delicate compromise in earlier discussions. Paragraph 1 referred 

to UNCLOS because of its paramount importance in maritime law, while paragraph 2 drew 

attention to those instruments that are most critical in ship recycling. The ILO therefore preferred 

that the specific reference to its conventions be maintained in the body of the convention in order 

to underscore the obligations of ratifying States under relevant ILO conventions. 

3.39 Following an extensive discussion, the Committee agreed to delete “including those of 

the International Labour Organization [and the Basel Convention]” from Article 15.2. 

The Committee also agreed to instruct the drafting group to develop a new operative paragraph in 

the preamble of the IMO Convention noting the role of the Basel Convention, and also to prepare 

a draft Conference resolution acknowledging the contribution of the International Labour 

Organization and of the Basel Convention in the development of the draft convention on ship 

recycling. 
 - 27 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.40 The Committee discussed Article 17 on the entry into force of the convention. There was 

a broad range of views expressed reflecting the discussions that had taken place in the 

intersessional correspondence and working groups. The Committee agreed to maintain the text 

that had been proposed by the working group within square brackets and invited submissions to 

the diplomatic Conference on this subject. On this basis, the United Kingdom withdrew its earlier 

reservation. 

3.41 The Committee then agreed to instruct the drafting group to consider drafting solutions to 

the three issues raised in plenary by IACS: threshold values for the Inventory of Hazardous 

Materials; consideration of the responsibilities of surveyors involved in the final survey; and the 

alignment in Appendix 1 of the draft convention of the specified control measures for TBT with 

the understanding reached at MEPC 57 (MEPC 57/21, paragraph 12.9). 

3.42 The Committee finally agreed to instruct the drafting group to clarify in the text of the 

convention whether it is intended that the Competent Authority or that the Ship Recycling 

Facility be the responsible body for copying to the flag State the Statement of Completion at the 

end of recycling. 

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DRAFTING GROUP ON SHIP RECYCLING

3.43 The Committee established the Drafting Group on Ship Recycling under the 

chairmanship of Mrs. Katy Ware (United Kingdom) with the following Terms of Reference: 

 

“The Drafting Group is instructed to: 

.1 produce a clean text of the draft International Convention for the Safe and 

Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships for approval by the Committee, 

taking into account the comments made in plenary and on the basis of 

decisions made concerning the draft convention contained in document 

MEPC 58/WP.4; 

.2 prepare a draft Conference resolution expressing appreciation to the Basel 

Convention and to the International Labour Organization; and 

.3 provide a written report to plenary on Thursday, 9 October 2008.” 

3.44 The Committee noted that the drafting group had carefully reviewed the draft convention 

and had finalized the draft text as set out in annex 1 of its report MEPC 58/WP.7. 

3.45 The Committee also noted that the group, within the time available, had been unable to 

find drafting solutions to the following issues: 

.1 Article 14 – Dispute settlement: Various proposals were made to clarify in the text 

that Parties to a dispute would have to agree to the means by which the dispute 

would be settled. 

.2 regulation 5 – Inventory of Hazardous Materials: A proposal was made to revise 

regulation 5.1.1 as follows (new text is underlined): 

 identify as Part I, measurable concentrations of Hazardous Materials listed 

in Appendices 1 and 2 to this Convention and contained in ship’s structure 

and equipment, their location and approximate quantities; 
MEPC 58/23 - 28 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.3 regulation 10 – Surveys: A proposal was made to revise regulation 10.1.4.2 as 

follows (text to be deleted is struck through): 

that the Ship Recycling Plan developed by the Ship Recycling 

Facility(ies), complies with the requirements of this Convention, and, 

unless a Party has made a declaration pursuant to Article 16.6, has been 

approved by the Competent Authority(ies). 

.4 regulation 25 – Reporting upon completion: Various proposals were made to 

clarify who is responsible (in the recycling State) for copying to the 

Administration (flag State) the Statement of Completion. 

.5 Appendix 1 – Controls of Hazardous Materials: The group was unable to align the 

description for the control measure for TBT with the understanding reached at 

MEPC 57 (document MEPC 57/21, paragraph 12.9). 

3.46 With regard to the inconclusive discussion that had taken place in the drafting group over 

Article 14 on Dispute settlement, the Committee agreed to insert the words “by them” in square 

brackets, after the text ending “agreed upon”, so as to clarify the means by which a dispute would 

be settled. 

3.47 Regarding the deletion by the Committee of text making reference to ILO from 

paragraph 2 of Article 15, ILO, supported by ITF, expressed its concern and stated that this 

deletion may have considerable impact on the conditions under which ships will be recycled. 

ILO noted that the convention does not apply to ships of less that 500 GT and therefore not all 

workers involved in ship recycling may be adequately covered for safety and health as well as 

training. ILO, therefore, indicated that it might submit appropriate proposals to the diplomatic 

Conference. 

3.48 Malta, supported by Panama, the Marshall Islands, Singapore and Cyprus, expressed its 

concern over the fact that the obligation placed by regulation 10.1.4.2 taken together with 

Article 16.6 as well as regulation 9 to “verify that the Ship Recycling Plan developed by the Ship 

Recycling Facilities complies with the requirements of this Convention”, placed undue 

responsibilities on flag State Administrations and their recognized organizations. Malta held the 

view that the text, as it currently stood, implied that flag States would be approving the 

commercial activities of Ship Recycling Facilities within the jurisdiction of other States, 

potentially contravening the sovereignty of recycling States. 

3.49 During the discussion, an alternative text addressing the concerns expressed by Malta was 

proposed for regulation 10.1.4.2. Although there was support for the proposed text, the 

Committee agreed to place the words “complies with the requirements of this Convention, and” 

in regulation 10.1.4.2 within square brackets and also to include the alternative text in its report, 

as shown below: 

“10.1.4.2 that the Ship Recycling Plan developed by the Ship Recycling Facility(ies) 

identifies correctly the information contained in the International Certificate 

on Inventory of Hazardous Materials; and has been submitted to the 

Competent Authority(ies), unless the Party of the Competent Authority has 

made a declaration pursuant to Article 16.6.” 
 - 29 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.50 The delegation of France expressed its concern regarding the unresolved issue for 

clarifying the reporting requirements upon completion of recycling under regulation 25. France 

was of the view that the Competent Authority (recycling State) should be responsible for copying 

the Statement of Completion to the Administration (flag State) because of the following reasons: 

.1 the Ship Recycling Facilities probably do not know to whom the report in the flag 

State should be sent; 

.2 in cases when the flag State does not receive such a report, the question is whether 

the Administration would be expected to contact directly the Ship Recycling 

Facility, and if so, what should the Administration do in cases when the Ship 

Recycling Facility did not respond; and 

.3 according to paragraph 5 of Article 12, the flag State is required to report annually 

to the Organization a list of ships deregistered for the purpose of recycling. To do 

this, the flag State needs to be informed by the Competent Authority of the Ship 

Recycling Facility, in order to know which ships have been recycled out of all 

ships that have been deregistered. 

3.51 The Committee could not agree to amending regulation 25 at that stage and suggested that 

further consideration could be given to this matter at the diplomatic Conference. 

Report of the Drafting Group on Ship Recycling 

3.52 The Committee approved the report of the drafting group (MEPC 58/WP.7) in general 

and, in particular: 

.1 noted that the drafting group has completed its work and had produced the final text 

of the draft International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound 

Recycling of Ships; 

 

.2 approved the final text of the draft convention, as set out in annex 6 to this report; 

.3 noted that the drafting group had prepared, at the Committee’s request, a provisional 

draft Conference resolution expressing appreciation to the Parties of the Basel 

Convention and to the International Labour Organization for their contribution in 

the development of the draft Convention and agreed to the draft Conference 

resolution, as set out in annex 7 to this report; 

.4 instructed the Secretariat to carry out any necessary editorial/conforming changes 

to the draft convention before circulation for the Conference; and 

.5 requested the Secretary-General to circulate the text of the draft convention to all 

Members at least six months before the date of the diplomatic Conference with a view 

to adoption. 

3.53 Australia requested to record its concern on the text in the draft Convention regarding 

non-Party recycling facilities that meet or exceed the draft Convention’s standards. 

In Australia’s view, rules for trade and for protecting health and the environment can, and should 

be, mutually supportive. Australia considered that the draft Convention’s environmental and 

health protection goals could still be met by allowing trade with non-Parties that have equivalent 
MEPC 58/23 - 30 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

environmental and health protection standards. In Australia’s view, this would be consistent with 

Members’ obligations under the World Trade Organization agreement. Members were therefore 

encouraged to have regard to this aspect prior to the proposed adoption of the draft Convention at 

the diplomatic Conference. The statement by Australia was supported by the United States, 

Singapore and the Russian Federation. 

3.54 India, supported by Saudi Arabia, stated that the subject of Party/non-Party had already 

been debated by the Committee at length and that the issue should be closed. India also noted that 

the relevant instruments of the World Trade Organization provided for exemptions on 

environmental grounds. Furthermore, as the potential problem of recycling capacity was being 

addressed through the entry into force conditions, India stressed that the convention should not 

allow the avoidance of its requirements through Party/non-Party arrangements. 

3.55 Turkey requested to record in the Committee’s report that it is not a State party to 

UNCLOS and as such, Turkey’s national position regarding the application of the said 

convention remained the same. 

3.56 Turkey also requested to include in the Committee’s report information on the Pilot 

Project it had proposed to conduct on the trial recycling of two ships in accordance with the 

provisions of the draft convention. The statement by Turkey is set out as annex 8 to this report. 

4 PREVENTION OF AIR POLLUTION FROM SHIPS 

GENERAL

4.1 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had considered a proposal by the 

Secretary-General seeking the development and adoption of a global agreement to limit, or 

reduce, Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from ships by December 2009. The proposal was not 

intended as an amendment to the original GHG Work Plan, agreed at MEPC 55; but rather as an 

identification of the components in the Plan which could realistically be concluded before the 

originally-set date. 

4.2 MEPC 57 welcomed the Secretary-General’s proposal to expedite IMO’s work on 

GHG emissions and accepted with appreciation the offer of Norway to host an intersessional 

meeting of the Working Group on GHG Emissions from Ships (GHG WG 1), whose outcome 

would be considered by the Committee at the present session. 

4.3 The Committee recalled also that, at MEPC 57, it decided by an overwhelming majority 

to take the principles listed in paragraph 4.73 of its report (MEPC 57/21) as its reference for 

further debate on GHG emissions from international shipping. However, the principle of making 

any future GHG regime “binding and equally applicable to all flag States in order to avoid 

evasion” was challenged by a number of Member States and several proposals for amendments 

were made, but none agreed upon. Following the debate, MEPC 57 accepted a proposal by the 

Chairman to carefully reflect on the issue in the intersessional period in order to reach consensus 

on the fundamental principles at this session. 

4.4 The Committee recalled further that MEPC 57, in concluding its debate on GHG 

emissions-related issues, approved the Terms of Reference for the intersessional meeting of the 

Working Group on GHG Emissions from Ships held in Oslo, Norway, from 23 to 27 June 2008, 

and re-established the Correspondence Group on GHG-related issues. 
 - 31 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.5 The Committee noted that document MEPC 58/4/1 (ISO) would be considered by the 

Drafting Group on amendments to Annex VI, to be established under agenda item 5. 

4.6 In addition to the submissions from Member Governments and observer delegations, the 

Committee had before it the outcomes of the following groups and bodies: 

.1 the report of the first Intersessional Working Group on GHG Emissions from 

Ships held in Oslo from 23 to 27 June 2008; 

.2 a progress report from the Steering Committee and phase 1 of the 

Updated 2000 Study on GHG Emissions from Ships; 

.3 the interim report of the Intersessional Correspondence Group on GHG-related 

issues; and 

.4 the outcome of SBSTA 28 held in Bonn, Germany, from 2 to 13 June 2008 and 

the Climate Change Talks held in Accra, Ghana, from 21 to 27 August 2008. 

4.7 No less than 45 documents (including four INF documents) were before the Committee 

for consideration and, in order to facilitate an orderly debate despite the heavy workload, 

the Committee agreed to conduct the discussion by grouping those documents addressing the 

same, or similar, matters, as follows: 

.1 consideration of the Report of the intersessional GHG WG that met in Oslo 

(MEPC 58/4) and other documents commenting upon it or dealing with matters of 

policy and/or principle; 

.2 consideration of other documents addressing topics of a general nature and other 

background issues; 

.3 recalling that, at MEPC 57, only basic documents on GHG issues had been 

introduced in plenary while the rest were referred directly to the Working Group, 

the Committee agreed that all technical documents related to the CO2 Design Index, 

Operational Index, Baselines and Best Practices, would be introduced in the 

Working Group to be established at this session, thus saving precious time for 

discussion of policy issues in plenary; 

.4 consideration of proposals on market-based measures; and 

.5 development of precise Terms of Reference for the Working Group. 

4.8 The Committee noted the documents for consideration, grouped together in 

four categories, as follows: 

Category 1 – 11 documents on the outcome of the intersessional GHG WG, general 

comments thereon and other documents on application of measures and matters of 

principle or policy 

MEPC 58/4 (Secretariat); MEPC 58/4/15 (United Kingdom); MEPC 58/4/16 (Australia et al.); 

MEPC 58/4/17 (United States); MEPC 58/4/18 (Cyprus); MEPC 58/4/20 (Secretariat); 
MEPC 58/23 - 32 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

MEPC 58/4/23 (part) (Australia); MEPC 58/4/31 (Brazil); MEPC 58/4/32 (China and India); 

MEPC 58/INF.14 (Norway); and MEPC 58/INF.21 (FOEI). 

Category 2 – Six documents with general information on GHG issues 

MEPC 58/4/2 (Secretariat); MEPC 58/4/4 (Secretariat); MEPC 58/INF.6 (Secretariat); MEPC 58/4/5 

(Secretariat); MEPC 58/4/5/Add.1 (Secretariat); and MEPC 58/4/41 (Australia and the Netherlands). 

Category 3 – 23 documents of a technical nature (Design and Operational CO2 Indices and 

baselines) to be introduced in the Working Group 

MEPC 58/4/6 (Denmark and Norway); MEPC 58/4/7 (Finland and Sweden); MEPC 58/4/8 

(Denmark); MEPC 58/4/9 (Denmark); MEPC 58/4/10 (Denmark); MEPC 58/4/12 (CESA); 

MEPC 58/4/14 (INTERTANKO); MEPC 58/4/24 (Denmark); MEPC 58/4/26 (Japan); 

MEPC 58/4/27 (Japan); MEPC 58/4/28 (Japan); MEPC 58/4/29 (Japan); MEPC 58/4/30 (IACS); 

MEPC 58/4/33 (China); MEPC 58/4/34 (China); MEPC 58/4/35 (United States); MEPC 58/4/36 

(Canada); MEPC 58/4/38 (Canada); MEPC 58/4/3 (Secretariat); MEPC 58/4/11 (Marshall Islands); 

MEPC 58/4/13 (INTERTANKO et al.); MEPC 58/4/37 (Canada); and MEPC 58/INF.7 (ICS et al.). 

Category 4 – Six documents on market-based measures 

MEPC 58/4/19 (IBIA); MEPC 58/4/21 (IMarEst); MEPC 58/4/22 (Denmark); MEPC 58/4/23 

(part) (Australia); MEPC 58/4/25 (France et al.); and MEPC 58/4/39 (WWF). 

REPORT OF THE INTERSESSIONAL GHG WORKING GROUP, COMMENTS AND OTHER 

DOCUMENTS ON MATTERS OF PRINCIPLE OR POLICY

4.9 As agreed above, the Committee started the discussion with the consideration of the 

outcome of the intersessional GHG Working Group (GHG WG 1), general comments thereon 

and other documents on application of measures and matters of principle or policy. 

4.10 The Director, Marine Environment Division, introduced document MEPC 58/4 

(Secretariat), providing the outcome of the intersessional GHG Working Group. He highlighted 

that more than 210 representatives from Member Governments and observer organizations 

participated in the 5-day meeting hosted by the Government of Norway and organized by the 

Norwegian Maritime Directorate. In accordance with its terms of reference, the intersessional 

meeting had structured the discussion under the following items on its agenda: 

.1 development of a CO2 Design Index for new ships; 

.2 review of the a CO2 Operational Index (MEPC/Circ.471); 

.3 development of a CO2 Baseline methodology; 

.4 development of reduction mechanisms, including their implementation; 

.5 development of best practices; and 

.6 level of reduction and other GHG matters. 
 - 33 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.11 The Director stressed that without the intersessional meeting, the Committee would not 

be in a position to further advance the GHG issue at the present session and, although some 

points under discussion could not be finalized during the meeting due to lack of time, it was to be 

expected that significant progress could be made during the week. He finalized by thanking the 

Government of Norway for its generosity and hard work in organizing the meeting, as well as for 

its warm hospitality. 

4.12 The Chairman, in endorsing the words of the Director, MED, expressed his deep 

appreciation to the Government of Norway for the excellent organization of the intersessional 

meeting and thanked especially all the delegates who, through hard work and tireless dedication, 

had contributed to the success of the meeting. 

4.13 Having approved the report of GHG WG 1 (MEPC 58/4) in general, the Committee 

turned to the 14 action points in paragraph 8.1 of that document. The Committee, noticing 

that 12 action points invited it to “note” the outcome of the intersessional meeting’s discussion, 

agreed to note those 12 action points. However, regarding action points 8.1.2 and 8.1.4, whereby 

it was being invited to consider the draft Guidelines on the method of calculation of the 

CO2 Design Index and the draft regulatory text for a mandatory CO2 Design Index, respectively, 

the Committee, recalling its previous decision in paragraph 4.7.3 above, agreed to refer them to 

the Working Group to be established under this agenda item. 

4.14 In order to facilitate discussion, the Committee agreed to a proposal by the Chairman to 

further structure the introduction of documents, and discussion of the proposals contained 

therein, along three additional categories, namely: 

.1 proposals on the form of a legal instrument; documents: MEPC 58/4/15 

(United Kingdom), MEPC 58/4/17 (United States) and part of MEPC 58/4/18 

(Cyprus); 

.2 application of the proposed measures; documents: MEPC 58/4/16 (Australia, 

Canada et al.), MEPC 58/4/20 (Secretariat), part of MEPC 58/4/23 (Australia), 

MEPC 58/4/31 (Brazil) and MEPC 58/4/32 (China and India); and 

.3 other issues; documents: part of MEPC 58/4/18 (Cyprus), MEPC 58/INF.14 

(Norway) and MEPC 58/INF.21 (FOEI). 

4.15 The delegation of South Africa expressed its hope that the Organization should work in 

unison with other UN bodies in the vital task of combating climate change and that, in taking 

important decisions at the present session, it would do so in accordance with those principles 

adopted at other UN fora. 

Form of legal instrument 

4.16 The United Kingdom, in document MEPC 58/4/15, considered the need for an 

independent mandatory instrument to address GHG emissions from shipping and the form that 

instrument could take. Having reviewed the possible shortcomings that an amendment to 

MARPOL Annex VI, or even the adoption of a new Annex VII to MARPOL could entail, a new 

stand-alone instrument represented the only available option despite the timeframe necessary for 

its adoption and eventual entry into force. 
MEPC 58/23 - 34 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.17 The United States, in document MEPC 58/4/17, proposed a possible framework for action 

(not requiring amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, or a new mandatory instrument) to increase 

energy efficiency for new ships through a combination of mandatory and voluntary actions for 

addressing emissions from new and existing ships. 

4.18 Cyprus, in document MEPC 58/4/18, proposed a “solution outline” to move forward the 

work in IMO on GHG emissions from ships including a mandatory Design CO2 Index under 

MARPOL Annex VI and a voluntary Operational Index. 

4.19 Once the three documents had been introduced, the Chairman opened a debate on the 

issue of whether any new mandatory measures should be in the form of amendments to 

MARPOL Annex VI, a new Annex VII to MARPOL, or a new stand-alone instrument. 

4.20 Before concluding the debate, however, and taking into account that the Consortium in 

charge of the Update of the 2000 IMO GHG Study had scheduled a presentation to 

the Committee on the outcome of Phase 1 of the Study to take place at close of business, 

the Chairman proposed that the Committee turn to documents related to the Update of 

the 2000 IMO GHG Study. The Committee agreed to this approach. 

UPDATING OF THE 2000 IMO GHG STUDY

4.21 The Chairman of the Steering Committee for the updating of the 2000 IMO GHG Study, 

Ms Petra Bethge, Germany, briefly introduced documents MEPC 58/4/2 and MEPC 58/4/4, 

as well as MEPC 58/INF.6. 

4.22 The Committee noted that document MEPC 58/4/2 provided a progress report by the 

Steering Committee on the updating of the 2000 IMO Greenhouse Gas Study. 

4.23 The Committee noted with appreciation the introduction by the coordinator of the 

international Consortium contracted to undertake the update of the Study, Dr. Buhaug of 

MARINTEK, who provided a summary of the main findings in documents MEPC 58/4/4 

(Executive Summary) and MEPC 58/INF.6 (Full Report) with information on Phase 1 of the 

updated 2000 IMO Study on GHG emissions from ships. The Committee noted, inter alia, the 

following findings: 

.1 CO2 emissions from international shipping have been estimated both from activity 

data and from international fuel statistics. It was concluded that the activity-based 

estimates with use of detailed activity data (for different ship sizes and types) gave 

a better assessment of global fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from 

international shipping than fuel statistics, due to apparent under-reporting of 

marine bunker sales; 

.2 the consensus estimate for 2007 CO2 emissions from international shipping 

amounts to 843 million tonnes CO2; and 

.3 future emissions from international shipping have been estimated based on global 

developments outlined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 

(IPCC). Assuming that there are no explicit regulations on CO2 emissions from 

ships, CO2 emissions are predicted in the base scenarios to increase by a factor 
 - 35 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

of 2.4 to 3.0 by 2050. For 2020, the base scenario predicts increases ranging 

from 1.1 to 1.3. These predictions take into account significant efficiency 

improvements resulting from expected long-term increases in energy prices. 

4.24 The Committee noted with appreciation the information provided by the delegation of 

Japan that the Japanese Shipowners Association had made a donation of US$100,000 as a 

contribution to the funding of the Study and any follow-up work. 

GENERAL STATEMENTS BY MANY DELEGATIONS

4.25 Before resuming the discussion on the issue of whether any new mandatory measures 

should be in the form of amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, a new Annex VII to MARPOL, or 

a new stand-alone instrument (paragraphs 4.16 to 4.20 above), the Chairman opened the floor for 

general statements at the request of several delegations. 

4.26 Delegations of 43 Member States and one Associate Member, as well as three observer 

organizations in consultative status, listed by order of intervention, delivered general statements 

on matters of principle or policy concerning the GHG issue: China; Brazil; Saudi Arabia; India; 

France; Argentina; Hong Kong, China; Italy; Mexico; Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; 

Greece; the United States; Singapore; the Republic of Korea; Venezuela; Peru; the Philippines; 

Norway; Egypt; Finland; Belgium; Ghana; Chile; Namibia; the Netherlands; Australia; the 

Russian Federation; Uruguay; Japan; the Islamic Republic of Iran; the United Kingdom; Bolivia; 

the Marshall Islands; Vanuatu; New Zealand; Ecuador; Denmark; Germany; Sweden; Spain; 

Indonesia; Colombia; Sierra Leone; Mongolia; FOEI; IACS and WWF. 

The statements, as delivered by the delegations, are set out in annex 9. 

4.27 Many delegations spoke in favour of the common but differentiated responsibility 

(CBDR) principle under the UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol. In their view, any mandatory 

regime aiming at reducing GHG emissions from ships should be applicable to developed 

countries listed in Annex I of the UNFCCC only. 

4.28 Many other delegations expressed the opinion that, given the global mandate of IMO as 

regards the safety of ships and the protection of the marine and atmospheric environment from 

ship emissions, the IMO regulatory framework on the GHG issue should be applicable to all 

ships, irrespective of the flags they fly. It was stressed that, as three-quarters of the world’s 

merchant fleet fly the flag of developing countries not listed in Annex I to the UNFCCC, any 

regulatory regime on the reduction of GHG from shipping would become meaningless and 

ineffective for the purpose of combating climate change, if applicable only to Annex I countries. 

A number of delegations emphasized the need to progress the technical discussions and address 

the matter of application separately. 

INTERVENTIONS BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

4.29 The Secretary-General commented with appreciation upon a previous statement by the 

delegation of South Africa (paragraph 4.15 above) calling upon IMO to act in unison with other 

UN bodies in the combat against climate change while, at the same time, preserving the principle 

of consensus under which the Organization has usually made decisions along its history 

of 50 years of service to the world’s maritime community. He thanked also the delegations of 

China and Brazil for their constructive approach in the course of the current debate and informed 

the Committee that he maintained a close relationship with the Executive-Director of the 
MEPC 58/23 - 36 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

UNFCCC, Mr. de Boer, trying to ensure that the outcome of the debate at IMO would be in 

conformity with the principles enshrined in the UNFCCC. 

4.30 Once the general statements had been delivered, the Secretary-General intervened to 

inform the Committee that, in relation to certain assertions that had been made, he wished to put 

the record straight concerning the standing of the International Maritime Organization vis-à-vis

other UN organizations and agencies. He quoted article 59 of the IMO Convention which states: 

“The Organization shall be brought into relationship with the United Nations in 

accordance with Article 57 of the Charter of the United Nations as the specialized agency 

in the field of shipping and the effect of shipping on the marine environment ....” 

The Organization, thus, had a global mandate and global competence on matters related to the 

protection of the environment from emissions caused by shipping and was not subordinated to 

any other UN body in that respect. 

CHAIRMAN’S PRELIMINARY SUMMING-UP

4.31 In view of the time constraints and the imperious need to address other urgent matters in 

the Committee’s agenda, the Chairman proposed to the Committee the establishment of the 

Working Group in order to progress the work towards the finalization of the Design CO2 Index 

for new ships and the Operational CO2 Index for all ships, in accordance with the Committee’s 

GHG Work Plan agreed at MEPC 55. 

4.32 The Chairman proposed that the Working Group, in order to make the best use of the time 

available, could start working immediately on the mentioned technical measures set out in 

the 23 “Category 1” documents mentioned in paragraph 4.8 above, without addressing the issue 

of whether those measures should be implemented by means of a mandatory or voluntary 

instrument; and report back to the plenary, where a decision could be made in that respect. 

4.33 Following some debate, the Committee, in concurring with a proposal by Brazil, agreed 

to change the terms “Design CO2 Index” to “Energy Efficiency Design Index”; and “Operational 

CO2 Index” to “Energy Efficiency Operational Index”. 

4.34 The Committee also agreed with the Chairman’s proposal to consider the remaining 

issues under this agenda item, namely: market-based measures, applicability and other related 

matters such as the possible establishment of an IMO GHG Fund as proposed by Cyprus 

(MEPC 58/4/18) when the Working Group was recalled to the plenary to present its report. 

4.35 The Committee, in endorsing a proposal by the Chairman, expressed its sincere 

appreciation to the outgoing Working Group Chairman, Mr. Bin Okamura (Japan), for his 

excellent leadership of the Working Group on Air Pollution from Ships that had dealt with so 

many challenging, complex and politically sensitive issues under his very able chairmanship. 

4.36 The Committee noted that Mr. Koichi Yoshida (Japan) had agreed to take over as 

Working Group Chairman and expressed its appreciation that he was willing to undertake this 

challenging task. 
 - 37 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE WORKING GROUP ON GHG EMISSIONS FROM SHIPS

4.37 The Committee agreed to establish the Working Group on GHG emissions from ships, 

under the chairmanship of Mr. Koichi Yoshida (Japan), with the following terms of reference: 

“Taking into account all relevant documents, as well as comments and decisions made in 

plenary, the Working Group was instructed to: 

.1 try to finalize the Energy Efficiency Design Index, including: 

.1 the method of calculation, using annex 5 to document MEPC 58/4 

as a basis; 

.2 the regulatory text, using annex 6 to document MEPC 58/4 as a 

basis; 

 .3 a verification procedure; and 

.4 any necessary associated guidelines; 

.2 try to finalize the review of the interim guidelines on the Energy 

Efficiency operational index (MEPC/Circ.471), including the Carbon to 

CO2 factors for marine fuels to be communicated to IPCC; 

.3 consider the proposals on introduction of a management tool for all ships, 

taking into account the Ship Efficiency Management Plan described in 

document MEPC 58/INF.7; 

.4 develop further the guidance on best practices and other voluntary 

operational measures including reference text to be incorporated in the 

regulatory framework; 

.5 list, if any, possible impacts on the shipping sector from the measures 

envisaged; and 

.6 present a written report to plenary by Thursday, 9 October 2008.” 

MARKET-BASED MEASURES

4.38 The Committee considered documents MEPC 58/4/22 (Denmark); part of MEPC 58/4/23 

(Australia); MEPC 58/4/25 (France, Germany and Norway); MEPC 58/4/19 (IBIA); 

MEPC 58/4/21 (IMarEst) and MEPC 58/4/39 (WWF). 

4.39 Denmark, in document MEPC 58/4/22, commented on the main concerns raised at the 

GHG-WG 1 relating to the development of market-based mechanisms with GHG reduction 

potential and further elaborated on the feasibility of establishing an International Compensation 

Fund for GHG Emissions from Ships. Preferential treatment of developing countries through the 

“International Compensation Fund for GHG emissions from Ship” was advocated so as to 

observe the CBDR principle. The Fund would be easy to administer although it was recognized 

that its implementation would need consensus and strong political will among the maritime 

community. 
MEPC 58/23 - 38 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.40 Australia, in part of document MEPC 58/4/23, welcomed many aspects of the global levy 

proposal as a stand-alone mechanism that would apply equally to all ships while potentially 

offering a source of support for developing countries also for development of clean technology. 

4.41 Norway, in introducing document MEPC 58/4/25 providing comments on the outcome of 

GHG-WG 1, advocated the setting up of an Emissions Trading System (ETS) for shipping as a 

workable mechanism which should be further developed. The document proposed that the input 

on ETS submitted to GHG-WG 1 should be further considered if the Committee decided to 

continue considering market-based measures. Those principles to be observed for an ETS were, 

in the view of the co-sponsors: 

.1 global application to all ships above a certain size; 

.2 emissions cap; 

.3 enforcement by flag State (obligation) and port State (right); 

.4 an open system (trading with other sectors) as opposed to a closed one (trading 

within shipping only); and 

.5 use of auction revenues. 

4.42 IBIA, in document MEPC 58/4/19, focused on a practical approach to a CO2 Cap and 

Trade Scheme for the shipping sector. A set of arguments for the proposal was provided as an 

incentive to provoke constructive debate and consideration of a practical implementation. 

A Global Registry composed of parties in the bunker industry (sellers and buyers) was proposed. 

Emission trading of excess CO2 above the mandatory cap was seen as an adequate tool to control 

CO2 emissions from shipping which would otherwise continue growing if there was no major 

technological breakthrough in the meantime (assuming world economy and trade continue 

growing). 

4.43 IMarEst, in document MEPC 58/4/21, proposed a framework for the assessment of the 

potential regulatory control and market-based measures being considered for the control of GHG 

emissions from ships in international trade. The proposed framework could, if agreed, be 

developed further and might provide a useful tool facilitating future debates and decisions. Under 

the proposal, potential regulatory controls were defined as: CO2 Design Index; port tax on carbon 

emission, or CO2 Design Index; fuel levy; and ETS. 

4.44 WWF, in document MEPC 58/4/39, addressed some concerns raised at GHG WG 1 

regarding market-based instruments and outlined new analysis and practical implications of the 

possible options for an ETS, fuel levy, or hybrid scheme carried out for WWF. In the view of 

WWF, expected revenue figures, as calculated in the document, could generate considerable 

funds for developing countries in application of the CBDR principle. WWF stated further that an 

economic instrument that is both global and differentiated was possible to develop addressing the 

basic principles of UNFCCC and IMO at the same time. 

4.45 A considerable debate followed the introduction of the documents. The majority of 

delegations which took the floor opposed the development of any market-based measures 

intended for the reduction of GHG emissions from ships as long as the issue of CBDR was not 

resolved in full recognition of article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol. In any case, in the view of those 

delegations, the matter could not be settled until after COP 15 in December 2009. 
 - 39 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.46 Other delegations and observers were of the view that, notwithstanding several interesting 

proposals before the Committee at the current session on market-based measures, the issue was 

still at a preliminary stage and further information and studies were needed before the Committee 

could reach an informed decision on such a highly complex matter. 

4.47 It was recognized that documents on the subject submitted to GHG WG 1 and the present 

session, relevant background documents, as well as new submissions should form the basis for 

further discussion at MEPC 59. It was also recognized that further submissions addressing all 

matters pertaining to market-based measures, including their feasibility, were needed to enable 

the Committee to hold an in-depth discussion at MEPC 59. It was agreed to dedicate enough time 

to hold such an in-depth discussion at MEPC 59. 

4.48 The Committee, therefore, requested delegations to provide as much information as 

possible to MEPC 59 with a view to facilitating a more focused debate at that session. 

4.49 In the course of the discussion on market-based measures, the delegations of India and 

Greece delivered general statements which are set out in annex 10. 

OUTCOME OF THE WORKING GROUP ON GHG EMISSIONS FROM SHIPS

4.50 In considering the report of the Working Group on GHG emissions from ships 

(MEPC 58/WP.8), the Committee noted the considerable discussion that had taken place within 

the Group, especially on the method of calculation of the Energy Efficiency Design Index 

(EEDI) for new ships. 

4.51 The Committee noted the firm opposition by several delegations to the issuance of an 

MEPC Circular to disseminate the EEDI among the maritime community at this stage and, 

following a thorough discussion, agreed to the use of the draft Interim EEDI, as developed by the 

group, for calculation and trial purposes with a view to gaining experience on its robustness and 

adequacy of purpose. 

4.52 The Committee noted also that, on the issue of possible impacts on the shipping sector 

(paragraph 37 of document MEPC 58/WP.8), some delegations did not agree that possible 

negative safety impacts had been appropriately considered in developing the formula for the 

EEDI. 

4.53 In view of the considerable tasks still outstanding in respect of the review of the Interim 

Energy Efficiency Operational Index (MEPC/Circ.471); the introduction of a management tool; 

guidance on best practices; and possible impacts on the shipping sector, the Committee concurred 

with the group’s view that the intersessional GHG Working Group should be re-convened to 

carry out further work before MEPC 59. The Committee agreed to schedule the meeting in the 

week after BLG 13 (9 to 13 March 2009). 

4.54 Having discussed and resolved the above issues, the Committee approved the report in 

general and: 

.1 approved the use of the draft Interim Guidelines on the method of calculation of 

the Energy Efficiency Design Index for new ships, for calculation/trial purposes 

with a view to further refinement and improvement, as set out in annex 11; 

.2 endorsed the group’s agreement to use document MEPC 58/4/8 for further studies 

and trials; 
MEPC 58/23 - 40 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.3 noted that the group was unable to finalize the review of the Energy Efficiency 

Operational Index; 

.4 approved the establishment of an intersessional correspondence group to further 

advance the work on the Energy Efficiency Operational Index with the following 

terms of reference: 

“The Correspondence Group on Review of the Energy Efficiency Operational Index 

(MEPC/Circ.471) co-ordinated by Japan∗

 is instructed to: 

.1 prepare a draft revised text of the Energy Efficiency Operational 

Index (MEPC/Circ.471), taking into account documents MEPC 58/4 

(annex 7), MEPC 58/4/11, MEPC 58/4/13, MEPC 58/WP.8 and 

other relevant documents as well as input and comments from 

participating Member Governments and observer organizations; 

.2 provide status of its work, as appropriate, to the second 

intersessional meeting of the Working Group on Greenhouse Gas 

Emissions from Ships (GHG-WG 2); and 

.3 submit a written report with a revised text of the Energy Efficiency 

Operational Index to MEPC 59 for consideration; 

.5 noted the outcome of the discussion on the Management Tool for all ships; 

.6 noted that the group had developed further the Guidance on Best Practices for 

fuel-efficient operation of ships and agreed that the text had been finalized and 

could be used in conjunction with the ship’s Energy Efficiency Management Plan; 

and 

.7 approved the holding of an intersessional meeting of the GHG Working Group 

back-to-back with BLG 13, from 9 to 13 March 2009, to carry out further 

necessary work under the Terms of Reference, as set out in annex 12.” 

4.55 The Committee invited delegations and industry observers to disseminate the Interim 

Guidelines on the EEDI to the maritime community at large, so that adequate experience can be 

gained on its adequacy as a tool to improve energy efficiency for new ships. 

 

∗ Co-ordinator: 

 Mr. Koichi YOSHIDA 

Director 

Centre for International Cooperation 

National Maritime Research Institute 

Tel: +81 422 41 3615 

Fax: +81 422 41 3247 

E-mail: koichiy@nmri.go.jp

UR: www.nmri.go.jp
 - 41 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.56 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had re-established the Intersessional 

Correspondence Group on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships co-ordinated by Australia and 

the Netherlands*

 (MEPC 57/21 paragraph 4.117.3) and noted that an interim report had been 

submitted to this session as document MEPC 58/4/41. The Committee noted further that in 

accordance with the decision by MEPC 57 (MEPC 57/21 paragraph 4.117.4) the Correspondence 

Group would continue working with the following Terms of Reference: 

“Taking into consideration available relevant information, the Intersessional 

Correspondence Group on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships is instructed to: 

.1 prepare detailed proposals on the measures identified in the 

Correspondence Group report (MEPC 57/4/5 and MEPC 57/4/5/Add.1), 

which have not been identified for further consideration by the GHG 

Working Group; and 

.2 present a final report to MEPC 59.” 

4.57 The Committee, recognizing that a number of documents had not been introduced 

and that others had not been thoroughly considered due to time constraints, agreed to keep 

the documents, or relevant parts of them, in abeyance for consideration at MEPC 59 as 

appropriate: MEPC 58/4/15 (United Kingdom), MEPC 58/4/16 (Australia, Canada, 

Denmark, Germany, Japan, Marshall Islands, Norway, Panama and United States), 

MEPC 58/4/17 (United States), MEPC 58/4/18 (Cyprus), MEPC 58/4/20 (Secretariat), 

MEPC 58/4/23 (Australia), MEPC 58/4/31 (Brazil) and MEPC 58/4/32 (China and India). 

5 CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS TO MANDATORY 

INSTRUMENTS 

5.1 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 (31 March to 4 April 2008) had approved the 

proposed amendments to MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code with a view to 

adoption at the present session (MEPC 57/21, paragraphs 4.58.4 and 4.58.7). The proposed 

amendments were circulated by the Secretary-General of the Organization, in accordance 

with Article 16(2)(a) of the MARPOL Convention, under cover of Circular letter No.2861 

of 7 April 2008. 

5.2 Following a proposal by the Chairman, the Committee agreed to consider the matters 

under this agenda item in the following order: 

 

 

* Co-ordinators: 

 Ms Nilofar Morgan 

Assistant Director 

Multilateral Section (Kyoto Protocol), Department of Climate Change 

tel. +61 2 62 74 12 89 

E-mail: nilofar.morgan@climatechange.gov.au 

Mr. Sibrand Hassing, 

Senior policy adviser 

DG Civil Aviation and Maritime Affairs, Unit Maritime Shipping 

Tel: +31 70 351 15 58 

Fax: +31 70 351 16 92 

E-mail: sibrand.hassing@minvenw.nl
MEPC 58/23 - 42 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 Draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code; 

.2 Criteria and Procedure for Designation of Emission Control Area (Appendix III to 

MARPOL Annex VI); 

.3 Unified Interpretations under the current MARPOL Annex VI and the 

NOX Technical Code and guidelines under the revised Annex and Code; 

.4 Guidelines for the development of a VOC management plan; and 

.5 Implementation of the revised MARPOL Annex VI.

Draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code 

5.3 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5 (Secretariat) with the draft text of the 

proposed amendments to MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code and noted that the 

Secretariat, in accordance with the request of MEPC 57 (MEPC 57/21, paragraph 4.58.10), had 

carried out necessary editorial/conforming changes to the draft amendments to MARPOL 

Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code. The Committee also considered the observations listed 

in paragraph 8 of document MEPC 58/5 and agreed that only the observations in items .1 and .2 

should be considered in plenary and the rest would be dealt with by the Drafting Group. 

Definition of marine diesel engines 

5.4 The Committee agreed that the definition of marine diesel engine in regulation 2(14) of 

MARPOL Annex VI and in paragraph 1.3.10 of the NOX Technical Code should not include 

engines which operate under normal service conditions on a gas fuel only. 

SOx emission limits for exhaust gas cleaning system 

5.5 In respect of the SOx emission limits for exhaust gas cleaning system that was removed 

from regulation 14 of the current MARPOL Annex VI (e.g., the limit for exhaust gas cleaning 

systems is 6.0 g SOx/kWh as it applies to areas where fuel is limited to maximum 1.5% sulphur 

content), the Committee agreed that the SOx emission limit for exhaust gas cleaning system 

should not be included in the revised Annex but in the Guidelines for exhaust gas cleaning 

systems (resolution MEPC.170(57) as revised). The Committee also agreed that the relevant 

equivalent levels applicable to meet the various sulphur limits now included in the draft Annex 

(4.50, 3.50, 1.50, 1.00, 0.50 and 0.10%) should be included in the Guidelines as proposed in 

document MEPC 58/5/8 (Marshall Islands and ICS). 

Definition of sulphur 

5.6 The Committee agreed that a definition of sulphur was not needed in the revised 

Annex VI as this is described in the test method in ISO 8754: 2003. 

Date of entry into force of the revised Annex and Code 

5.7 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/10 (Japan) proposing that the date of 

entry into force of the revised MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code be set 

on 1 July 2010, instead of 1 March 2010, as indicated in the associated draft MEPC resolution. 
 - 43 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

5.8 The Committee agreed to the proposal by Japan to set the entry-into-force date 

on 1 July 2010 for the revised Annex and Code to allow sufficient time for updating of affected 

guidelines and development of new guidelines as required by the revision. A large number of 

delegations reasoned that this would facilitate smooth implementation as it would enable the 

Committee to consider the matter over two sessions. Enabling finalization of the related 

guidelines would also provide predictability for the industry and promote efficient enforcement 

of the revised emissions reduction measures from the entering into force. 

Regulation 13(7) Existing Engines 

5.9 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/9 (United States) proposing a 

modification to paragraph 1.3.2 of the NOX Technical Code, to clarify that installation of an 

approved method to existing engines should not be seen as a “substantial modification” 

as defined in the NOX Technical Code as this would trigger a new certification process. 

The United States also recommended a modification of regulation 13(7)(a) of MARPOL Annex VI 

to specify this distinction. 

5.10 A large number of delegations supported the clarification proposed by the United States 

and the Committee agreed to instruct the Drafting Group accordingly. 

The impact of sulphur limits on ferry operations in Northern Europe 

5.11 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/11 (INTERFERRY) providing 

comments and information on possible impacts on ferry operations in Northern Europe under the 

revised MARPOL Annex VI. INTERFERRY also proposed that the overall environmental 

impact under the revised MARPOL Annex VI should be taken into consideration by the 

appropriate bodies to maintain a level playing field between different modes of transport. 

5.12 A number of delegations stressed that the matters raised by INTERFERRY had been 

satisfactorily considered in the revision process and the negotiations leading to the delicately 

balanced package approved by MEPC 57 that represented a compromise that should not be 

reopened. 

5.13 The Committee agreed to note the information provided and the views expressed by 

delegations, with no further action needed. 

Fuel oil specification – response from ISO 

5.14 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/4/1 (ISO) responding to the request by 

MEPC 57 for a review of marine fuel oil specifications. The ISO working group was 

re-established in the spring of 2008 and would consider the list of parameters and appropriate 

limits and report back to MEPC. 

5.15 The Committee welcomed the information provided by ISO and expressed appreciation 

for the work of the ISO working group that was re-established to undertake the review following 

the request by MEPC 57. Several delegations expressed concerns that the revised standard 

would not be published prior to the entering into force of the revised MARPOL Annex VI. 

The delegation of ISO assured the Committee that the work would be fast-tracked by issuing a 

“Public Available Standard” (PAS) and that the PAS would be published in time for the entering 

into force (1 July 2010) and that a progress report would be submitted to MEPC 59 to keep the 

Committee informed. 
MEPC 58/23 - 44 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Criteria and Procedure for Designation of Emission Control Areas 

5.16 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had noted the debate in the working group on air 

pollution on possible relaxation of “the criteria and procedures for designation of emission 

control areas” as set forth in Appendix III to MARPOL Annex VI. MEPC 57 had agreed that 

those interested in relaxing the current criteria should submit proposals for consideration by 

MEPC 58. 

5.17 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/3 (France and Germany) proposing 

relaxation of the “Criteria and Procedures for Designation of Emission Control Areas (ECA)” by 

deleting some existing criteria for the designation of an ECA. The co-sponsors further proposed 

to delete paragraph 7 of regulation 14 of MARPOL Annex VI, so as not to delay the effective 

date of an ECA for 12 months after entry into force, as it is today (a 12-month grace period). 

5.18 The Committee also considered document MEPC 58/5/6 (OCIMF) proposing 

modifications of the criteria by adding an assessment of fuel availability within the proposed 

ECA and by deleting introductory paragraph 1.2 of Appendix III and the requirement to provide 

meteorological information. OCIMF held the view that a rapid growth of ECAs would have a 

significant impact on fuel markets in those areas and also globally. 

5.19 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/7 (IPIECA) proposing the same 

modifications of the criteria as OCIMF (MEPC 58/5/6). IPIECA emphasized that the 

requirement to demonstrate environmental needs and cost-effectiveness of a proposed ECAs 

should be maintained and the regional fuel supply situation should be assessed including regional 

impacts on neighbouring countries, where necessary. 

5.20 A significant number of delegations supported the proposal by France and Germany but 

an equal number of delegations stressed that no amendments should be made as the existing 

criteria had served their purpose well and that they could not support a relaxation. Also, several 

delegations supported the proposal by OCIMF and IPIECA based on the challenges experienced 

when trying to obtain compliant fuel in connection with the two SECAs designated under the 

current Annex VI. 

5.21 Following a proposal by the Chairman and in the absence of a majority view, the 

Committee agreed that no amendments should be made to Appendix III. 

Unified Interpretations under the current MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical 

Code and guidelines under the revised Annex and Code 

5.22 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had noted that the Working Group on Air Pollution 

did not consider whether MEPC/Circ.473 and MEPC.1/Circ.540, containing unified 

interpretations to the current MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code, should be 

revoked. MEPC 57 had agreed, due to time constraints and taking into account that this was not 

an urgent matter, that the issue should be considered at MEPC 58. 

5.23 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/2 (Secretariat) providing a summary of 

the unified interpretations presently in force and guidelines in need of updating, as well as the 

new guidelines which may need to be developed. 
 - 45 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

5.24 The Committee agreed to revoke MEPC/Circ.473 and MEPC.1/Circ.540 on the existing 

unified interpretations under the current MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code upon 

the entry into force of the revised Annex and Code. 

5.25 The Committee recalled its decision to set the entry-into-force date on 1 July 2010 and 

that review of relevant non-mandatory instruments as a consequence of the revised Annex VI and 

the NOX Technical Code was already on the work programme for the BLG Sub-Committee. 

Based on this background, the Committee agreed that there was no need to establish a 

correspondence group on the matter but that the drafting group should develop the necessary 

instructions for BLG to carry out the work. 

Washwater discharge criteria for exhaust gas cleaning systems 

5.26 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/5 (Secretariat) providing a reply from 

GESAMP on the interim washwater discharge criteria, as set out in section 10 of the revised 

Guidelines for Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (resolution MEPC.170(57)). GESAMP was 

seeking clarifications on some specific issues in order to complete the work. The Committee 

noted GESAMP’s preparedness to advise the Committee on the washwater discharge criteria and 

agreed to task the Drafting Group to develop a draft reply to GESAMP. 

5.27 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/8 (Marshall Islands and ICS) 

highlighting the need for further amendments to the revised Guidelines for Exhaust Gas Cleaning 

Systems (resolution MEPC.170(57)) to reflect amendments to MARPOL Annex VI. 

5.28 The Committee agreed that the proposed amendments should not be further considered 

before the advice from GESAMP is received and noted that resolution MEPC.170(57) would be 

valid until the revised Annex VI enters into force. 

Guidelines for certification of exhaust gas after-treatment NOX systems 

5.29 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/4 (Denmark, Japan and the Republic of 

Korea) which stressed the need for development of guidelines for certification of exhaust gas 

after-treatment systems for the Tier III NOX limit. The co-sponsors also proposed the engine 

group concept as the appropriate certification procedure for compliance with Tier III, in which 

engines and after-treatment systems should be certified separately. 

5.30 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/12 (United States) which recommended 

that any future guidelines for certification of Tier III exhaust gas treatment system should be 

applied to large bore engines only (cylinder displacement more than 30 litres). In response to the 

“group certificate” concept described in document MEPC 57/4/46 (Denmark), the United States 

advocated that there is no significant hurdle to verify NOX emissions at all test cycle points 

during sea trials. 

5.31 A number of delegations supported the proposal to develop guidelines for certification of 

exhaust gas after-treatment systems for the Tier III NOX limit but reminded the Committee that 

this was not an urgent matter as Tier III would only apply from 1 January 2016. 

5.32 The Committee agreed to instruct the BLG Sub-Committee to carry out the necessary 

work. 
MEPC 58/23 - 46 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Guidelines for the development of a VOC management plan 

5.33 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had agreed that the draft Guidelines for the 

development of a VOC management plan should be presented to this session with a view to 

adoption by an MEPC resolution (MEPC 57/21, paragraph 4.58.11). 

5.34 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/5/1 (Secretariat) containing the draft 

Guidelines for the development of a VOC management plan and agreed to instruct the Drafting 

Group to review and finalize the draft guidelines with a view to adoption. 

Early implementation of the principles of regulation 18(2) of the revised Annex VI 

5.35 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/14 (IPTA and ICS) which proposed that 

the principles of regulation 18(2) of the revised MARPOL Annex VI should also be applied, 

through an MEPC circular, in the interim period prior to its entry into force. The interim 

application period would be from the date of adoption of the MEPC circular until the end of the 

application period of the current MARPOL Annex VI. The principles of regulation 18(2) entail 

that if a ship, despite its best efforts, is unable to purchase the required fuel quality, it should 

follow certain notification procedures and thereby not risk detention or other control measures in 

the next port or ports of call. 

5.36 A large number of delegations supported the proposal by IPTA and ICS. However, some 

delegations stressed that a change of destination due to continued trading of cargoes during the 

voyage or other commercial reason could not, on its own, justify that a vessel was unable to 

source compliant fuel. 

5.37 The Committee agreed that the principles of regulation 18(2) of the revised MARPOL 

Annex VI should also be applied in the interim period prior to its entry into force as many ships 

experienced challenges in purchasing compliant fuel in some areas. The Committee also agreed 

to instruct the Drafting Group to review the draft MEPC circular set out at annex to document 

MEPC 58/14 and, with this as a basis, finalize a draft MEPC circular for adoption by the 

Committee. 

Additional item in the term of reference for the Drafting Group 

5.38 The Committee, in view of the need, added an additional term of reference to the work 

of the Drafting Group to address the impact of the entry-into-force date for the revised 

Annex VI and the revised NOX Technical Code 2008. Since the Committee decided to set the 

entry-into-force date as 1 July 2010, there was a period of only six months for Administrations 

and recognized organizations acting on their behalf to certify engines and issue 

Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificates in order to comply with 

regulation 13(4) (Tier II NOX regulations for new engines). In order to enable Administrations to 

use the procedures in the revised NOX Technical Code 2008 prior to the entry into force of the 

revised Annex, and to avoid the practical implementation difficulties posed by the six-month 

period between the entry into force of the Annex and the effective date for Tier II compliance set 

forth in regulation 13(4), the Committee agreed that the Drafting Group should develop a draft 

circular, for consideration and approval by the Committee, attaching interim guidelines for the 

application of the revised NOX Technical Code 2008 in order to facilitate the effective 

implementation of regulation 13(4). 
 - 47 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Establishment of the Drafting Group on amendments to MARPOL Annex VI and the 

NOX Technical Code 

5.39 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 had agreed in principle to establish a Drafting 

Group on Amendments to MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code and had agreed to 

establish the group under the Chairmanship of Ms Lindy Johnson (United States) with the 

following Terms of Reference: 

“Taking into account all submitted documents as well as comments and decisions made in 

plenary, the Drafting Group is instructed to: 

.1 review and finalize the text of the revised MARPOL Annex VI and incorporate 

the decimal numbering system in paragraphs and sub-paragraphs; 

.2 review and finalize the text of the revised NOX Technical Code; 

.3 review and finalize the draft guidelines for the development of a VOC management 

plan (MEPC 58/5/1); 

.4 identify the guidelines to be updated or developed by the BLG Sub-Committee 

and prepare any necessary instructions; 

.5 develop a draft response to GESAMP on the requested clarifications on the 

interim washwater discharge criteria (MEPC 58/5/5); 

.6 review and finalize a draft MEPC Circular on interim application of the principles 

of regulation 18(2) using the annex to document MEPC 58/14 as a basis; 

.7 develop for consideration and adoption by the Committee a draft circular 

attaching interim guidelines for the application of the revised NOX Technical 

Code 2008 in order to facilitate the implementation of regulation 13(4); and 

.8 submit a written report to the plenary for consideration and adoption of these 

amendments on Thursday, 9 October 2008.” 

Outcome of the Drafting Group and adoption of the amendments 

5.40 In introducing the report, the Chairperson highlighted the issue of gas fuels, an issue that 

needed to be resolved prior to the adoption of the revised Annex VI. It was first discussed in the 

definition of fuel oil in regulation 2 and then again in regulation 18. It was noted that the 

application of the requirements pertaining to the Bunker Delivery Note and samples of gas fuels 

would create practical implementation difficulties and potentially serious safety hazards. It was 

also noted that gas-fuelled ships were covered by the revised Annex VI and a decision was 

therefore needed on whether or not the provisions should apply to them. 

5.41 The Chairperson stated that the Group had worked extremely hard and extended her 

sincere thanks to all the members of the group for their critical scrutiny of the text and their 

helpful observations and patience. She also thanked the members of the Secretariat, in particular, 

Mr. Dachang Du, Mr. Eivind Vågslid, Ms Lucy Essuman and Mr. Tomonori Hiratsuka. Before 

closing, Ms Johnson thanked the Chairman of the Working Group, Mr. Bryan Wood-Thomas, for 
MEPC 58/23 - 48 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

the decisions he took, for listening to all points of view and for leading the group fairly so that 

there were few, if any issues, that the Drafting Group found contentious in its deliberations. His 

tireless efforts, sound advice and ability to grasp the nuances of the political and technical 

landscape and, thus, facilitate consensus was nothing short of amazing. 

5.42 The Committee noted the following corrections to the report of the Drafting Group 

(MEPC 58/WP.9) in addition to those set out in MEPC 58/WP.9/Corr.1: 

.1 paragraph 8.1 should read as follows: 

“Ozone Depleting Substances, other than hydro-chlorofluorocarbons, 

were combined for ease of listing and the words, “installed before the date 

of 19 May 2005”, were added, as only systems installed before this date are now 

allowed to be used”; and 

.2 paragraph 16 should read as follows: 

“Two issues arose in the review of this document. First, the Group considered 

whether, because of paragraph 7 of regulation 15, gas carriers were also required 

to have a VOC management plan. In carefully examining the wording of the 

regulation, the Group decided that this was not the case and did not include any 

reference to gas carriers in the cover resolution or in the guidelines for the 

development of a VOC management plan.” 

 

5.43 Having considered the report of the Drafting Group on amendments to MARPOL 

Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code (MEPC 58/WP.9 and MEPC 58/WP.9/Corr.1), the 

Committee approved the report in general and, consequently: 

.1 considered whether any amendment to the revised MARPOL Annex VI regarding 

gas fuels should be adopted as raised in paragraphs 11 and 12 of the report, as 

amended by MEPC 58/WP.9/Corr.1, and agreed to add the following two 

sentences to the end of regulation 18.4: 

“Paragraphs 5, 6, 7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2, 9.2, 9.3 and 9.4 of this regulation do not apply 

to gas fuels such as Liquified Natural Gas, Compressed Natural Gas or Liquified 

Petroleum Gas. The sulphur content of gas fuels delivered to a ship specifically 

for combustion purposes onboard that ship shall be documented by the supplier.”; 

.2 noted that, as a consequence, annex 1 to document MEPC 58/WP.9, containing 

the revised MARPOL Annex VI, should be amended as follows: 

.1 the following should be added to the end of regulation 18.4: 

“Paragraphs 5, 6, 7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2, 9.2, 9.3 and 9.4 of this regulation do 

not apply to gas fuels such as Liquified Natural Gas, Compressed Natural 

Gas or Liquified Petroleum Gas. The sulphur content of gas fuels 

delivered to a ship specifically for combustion purposes onboard that ship 

shall be documented by the supplier.”; 

.2 in the Supplement to the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate, 

the following amendments were needed to paragraph 2.1.1 to conform to 

the wording of paragraphs 3.1 and 3.2 of regulation 12: 
 - 49 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

“the words “halons or chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)” should be replaced with 

“ozone depleting substances, other than hydro-chlorofluorocarbons,”; 

.3 noted that in all annexes to document MEPC 58/WP.9, the words “on board” or 

“on-board” should be changed to “onboard”; 

.4 adopted, by resolution MEPC.176(58), the revised MARPOL Annex VI, as set out 

in annex 13, as modified by the decisions taken by the Committee referred to in 

paragraphs 5.42 and 5.43 above; 

.5 adopted, by resolution MEPC.177(58), the revised NOX Technical Code 2008, as 

set out in annex 14; 

.6 agreed to refer the guidelines for the development of a VOC management plan 

(MEPC 58/WP.9, annex 3) to the BLG Sub-Committee for consideration; 

.7 approved the Terms of Reference for the Sub-Committee on Bulk Liquids and 

Gases to update or develop guidelines and to consider guidance on several issues 

relating to the revised Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code 2008, as set out in 

annex 15; 

.8 agreed to the draft response to GESAMP on the clarifications needed to provide 

the comments and input requested by MEPC 57 on the interim washwater 

discharge criteria for exhaust gas cleaning systems, as set out in annex 16; 

.9 noted that the Drafting Group had reviewed and finalized a draft MEPC circular 

inviting Member States to consider applying the principles outlined in 

regulation 18.2 of the revised Annex VI to the current Annex VI. Revised 

regulation 18.2 addresses the situation when a ship is found by a Party not to be in 

compliance with the standards for compliant fuel oils. Document MEPC 58/14, 

submitted by the International Parcel Tankers Association and the International 

Chamber of Shipping, noted that there have been cases under the current 

Annex VI where ships have not been able to obtain fuel to comply with the 

existing SOx Emission Control Areas (SECA) requirements. While there was 

support in the Committee for adopting this circular, a number of delegations had 

expressed concern regarding paragraph 3 of document MEPC 58/14, which stated 

that ships in certain trades, such as the chemical/parcel tanker trade which might 

have last minute changes of destination, can sometimes have difficulties in 

planning bunkering operations far in advance and thus may not have compliant 

fuel onboard for operating in a SECA. It was felt by those delegations concerned 

that this should not be considered a valid reason for applying the principles 

outlined in revised regulation 18.2; 

.10 approved the draft MEPC circular on interim application of the principles of 

regulation 18.2 and requested the Secretariat to issue it as MEPC.1/Circ.637; 

.11 approved the draft MEPC circular pertaining to interim guidelines for the 

application of the NOX Technical Code 2008 in order to facilitate the 

implementation of regulation 13.4 and requested the Secretariat to issue it as 

MEPC.1/Circ.638; and 
MEPC 58/23 - 50 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.12 expressed profound appreciation to all the parties that had been involved in the 

challenging and technically complicated revision of MARPOL Annex VI and the 

NOX Technical Code since it was agreed to by the Committee at its fifty-third 

session in July 2005, in particular to: 

- Member Governments and observer organizations that had provided scientific 

and expert input into the work and had submitted documents enabling the 

work to progress expeditiously, and had worked tirelessly to reach this 

important decision that would significantly reduce air pollution from ships, 

offering benefits for the environment and humans in the entire world; and 

greatly esteemed the co-operation and flexibility showed by all Member States 

and involved observers enabling IMO to reach this vital agreement; 

- the BLG Sub-Committee and its Chairman (Mr. Zafrul Alam of Singapore); 

- the BLG Working Group on Air Pollution, its members and Chairman 

(Mr. Bryan Wood-Thomas of the United States); 

- the MEPC Working Group on Air Pollution, its members and Chairmen 

(Mr. Bin Okamura of Japan and Mr. Bryan Wood-Thomas of the United States); 

- the informal Cross Government/Industry Scientific Group of Experts 

established by the Secretary-General to evaluate the effects of the different fuel 

options proposed under the revision of MARPOL Annex VI, its members, the 

subgroup leaders and its Chairman (Mr. Mike Hunter of the United Kingdom); 

- leaders and members of other informal groups facilitating the work as well as 

coordinators and members of correspondence groups; 

- the Governments of Norway and Germany for hosting intersessional meetings 

during the period of refurbishment of the IMO Headquarters; and 

- the Chairperson of the Drafting Group, Ms. Lindy Johnson (United States) and 

all its members for finalizing the work in a successful way. 

5.44 After the adoption of the revised MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code 2008, 

the delegation of Germany wholeheartedly thanked and congratulated the Committee, IMO and 

all its Members for this historical decision, which was a major step forward in the protection of 

the environment, as well as in enhancing the operational conditions for shipping and, at the same 

time, the public view of the shipping sector. In its view, the unanimous adoption was a striking 

proof of what the Committee can achieve, despite the different backgrounds and the diverse 

positions at the beginning of the negotiations of three years ago. The delegation of Germany 

further went on to say that it was now time to dedicate all efforts into the implementation of the 

revised Annex and Code to achieve what had been intended. The delegation of Germany stated 

that different challenges might be faced at national or regional level when implementing the new 

regulations, e.g., challenges such as to prevent modal shift to less environmentally friendly 

means of transport in some regions. Such challenges had to be addressed at national or regional 

level, where necessary. However, in the view of Germany, challenges were, to some extent, 

inherent in ambitious goals. The delegation of Germany also stated that the fact that a 

compromise could be achieved illustrated how successful IMO could be. The delegation of 

Germany closed by thanking the Chairman of the Working Group, Mr. Bryan Wood-Thomas and 
 - 51 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

the Chairperson of the Drafting Group, Ms. Lindy Johnson, and the Secretariat for their hard and 

excellent work. 

5.45 The Secretary-General stated that this was a monumental decision for the Committee and 

IMO as a new milestone in the history of the organization had been reached through the 

unanimous adoption of the revised MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code. He was 

sure that all involved joined in his delight at the accomplishment, and that both the environment 

and the maritime industry would benefit substantially from the successful outcome of the 

endeavour. The considerable work done had been followed closely, with appreciation, by 

politicians and the media around the globe and the final adoption of the package of measures 

would not only have the positive benefits already mentioned, it would, in addition, underline the 

efficiency and effectiveness of IMO while also contributing to enhancing the image of shipping 

in the minds of policy-makers and the public in all corners of the world. In extending thanks and 

congratulations to all those involved in the process, the Secretary-General underlined that the 

Chairman of the Committee equally deserved unreserved appreciation for his great share in this 

success. 

 

5.46 The Secretary-General went on to state that the unanimous adoption had showed that 

IMO was well able to make a success story of complex and sensitive issues – a feat that promised 

well for the next challenge, namely, the limitation and reduction of GHG emissions from 

shipping operations. The successful outcome of the efforts undertaken proved, once again, that 

IMO was focused, united and determined to reach decisions by consensus, thereby underlining 

IMO’s relevance as an international body capable of dealing with all items on its agenda, an 

Organization with the mandate and competence to set global standards in a global environment. 

6 INTERPRETATIONS OF AND AMENDMENTS TO MARPOL AND RELATED 

INSTRUMENTS 

PROPOSAL TO REVISIT RESOLUTION MEPC.108(49) (MANUALLY OPERATED ALTERNATIVES IN 

THE EVENT OF EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTIONS)

6.1 The delegation of Denmark, in document MEPC 58/6/2, raised the concern that in the 

event of equipment malfunctions it appears possible to discharge oil or oily mixtures from cargo 

tanks of oil tankers only with an ineffective visual control carried out by the crew and not by any 

other means to control the oil content for compliance with the established limits, which may lead 

to pollution of the sea. The delegation, therefore, proposed that paragraph 6.11 of resolution 

MEPC.108(49) on “Manually operated alternatives in the event of equipment malfunctions” 

should be revisited so as to avoid any uncontrolled discharge of oil, and in order to be in 

accordance with MARPOL Annex I, regulation 34. 

6.2 The Committee shared this concern and agreed that the DE Sub-Committee should review 

resolution MEPC.108(49) which it had developed, taking into account the proposal by Denmark, 

and report back to MEPC 59. The Committee thanked Denmark for bringing this issue to its 

attention. 

6.3 On the general point of discussing proposed amendments to MARPOL, the delegation of 

the Netherlands expressed the concern that several proposals had been submitted to this session 

to amend MARPOL Annex I under separate items of the agenda (e.g., items 6 and 10). 

The delegation suggested that such proposals, whether proposed afresh or already considered by 

a Sub-Committee, be presented under one item, if possible, including the status of the proposal. 

This would enable delegations to keep track of the status of proposed amendments. 
MEPC 58/23 - 52 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

6.4 This concern was shared by other delegations and the Committee agreed to request the 

Secretariat to keep this in mind when processing documents which propose amendments to the 

mandatory instruments and develop a matrix with their status, as appropriate. 

PROPOSALS FOR UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

6.5 IACS, in document MEPC 58/6, invited the Committee to consider IACS’s unified 

interpretation on how to calculate the distance ‘h’ measured from the baseline shown in Figure 2 

of MARPOL Annex I, regulations 12A.6-8 and 11.8 on oil fuel tank protection, as amended by 

resolution MEPC.141(54), when the vessel is fitted with a skeg or when the vessel is designed 

with permanent trim. These proposals, shown in the annex to document MEPC 58/6, concern 

vessels with an aggregate oil fuel capacity of 600m3 < x < 5,000 m3 and > 5,000 m3, respectively. 

6.6 The Committee noted that IACS, in document MEPC 58/6/1, proposed another uniform 

interpretation for MARPOL Annex I, regulation 23.7.3.2, on Accidental oil outflow performance, 

as amended by resolution MEPC.117(52), regarding the definition of the overpressure used for 

calculations of cargo level after bottom damage. For bottom damages the calculation of oil 

outflow of a tank is based on hydrostatic balance and the effect of overpressure. This definition 

is critical when undertaking the design of a ship and, in the view of IACS, it was important that 

the figure used was clear and that an appropriate operational pressure was used in the 

determination of the number of bulkheads. IACS, therefore, proposed the following unified 

interpretation: 

“The pressure p is to be taken as the maximum static inert gas pressure that is obtained at 

the discharge side of the non-return device fitted forward of the deck water seal or 5 kPa, 

whichever is greater. However, p need not be taken more than the maximum tank 

pressure corresponding to the P/V valve set-point.”

6.7 The Committee approved the Unified Interpretation on the application of the factor ‘h’ 

measured from the baseline shown in Figure 2 of MARPOL Annex I, regulations 12A.6-8 

and 11.8 on oil fuel tank protection, as set out in annex 17 to this report. The Committee further 

approved the Unified Interpretation of MARPOL Annex I, regulation 23.7.3.2 on Accidental oil 

outflow performance, as set out in annex 18 to this report. 

OTHER PROPOSALS

Request for clarification of application of MARPOL Annex I, regulation 12A 

6.8 IACS, in document MEPC 58/6/3, recalled that amendments to MARPOL Annex I had 

been adopted by resolution MEPC.141(54) in which a new regulation 12A on oil fuel tank 

protection was added. This regulation would apply to all ships with an aggregate oil 

fuel capacity of > 600 m3

, which are delivered on or after 1 August 2010, as defined in 

regulation 1.28.9 of Annex I. IACS had received queries from industry on the applicability of 

the new regulation 12A, in the case of conversions from single-hull oil tankers to bulk/ore 

carriers. While it was clear that converting a single hull oil tanker to a bulk/ore carrier was a 

change in ship type and therefore constituted a major conversion as per regulation 1.9.1.2, it was 

unclear if: 

.1 regulation 12A should be applied to the entire bulk/ore carrier, i.e. all new and 

existing fuel oil tanks; or 
 - 53 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.2 regulation 12A should be applied only to the newly installed/converted fuel oil 

tanks of the bulk/ore carrier; or 

.3 regulation 12A should not apply where the fuel tank arrangements remain 

unchanged after conversion, i.e. in cases where the actual conversion work is 

carried out only in the cargo area without affecting the fuel oil tanks located 

outside the cargo region; and no new fuel oil tanks are added anywhere in the ship 

such that total fuel oil capacity is not exceeding that prior to the conversion, i.e. 

the risk level remains the same. 

6.9 It was IACS’s view that this issue needed to be addressed as a matter of urgency and 

IACS requested the Committee to consider the arguments in its document and clarify which of 

the three proposals above, or a hybrid thereof, was correct. 

6.10 A majority of the delegations that spoke supported the first clarification offered by IACS, 

in view of the fact that after a major conversion (regulation 1.9.1.2) the ship was treated as a 

“new” ship. The Committee therefore agreed that regulation 12A should be applied to the entire 

bulk/ore carrier, i.e., all new and existing fuel oil tanks. As requested, the Secretariat, in 

consultation with IACS, produced a final text for this clarification, which reads as follows: 

“With regard to conversions from single-hull oil tankers to bulk/ore carriers, 

regulation 12A of MARPOL Annex I should be applied to the entire bulk/ore carrier, i.e. 

all new and existing fuel oil tanks.” 

The Committee agreed with this clarification. 

Revision of MARPOL Annex I concerning the record of construction and equipment for oil 

tankers (Form B) 

6.11 IACS, in document MEPC 58/6/4, also proposed to improve the Record of Construction 

and Equipment for Oil Tankers (Form B), in areas of Form B which do not provide specific 

information on the arrangement of oil tankers. Form B was a mandatory requirement under 

MARPOL Annex I, as it is Appendix II to Annex I, and therefore must be amended in 

accordance with article 16 of the MARPOL Convention. Notwithstanding this procedural issue, 

IACS invited the views of the Committee regarding proposed revisions of the MARPOL 

Annex I, Form B, in order to provide additional detail to document more completely the 

arrangement of different categories of oil tankers. The proposed revisions to section 5.8 of 

Form B were shown in annex 1 to document MEPC 58/6/4, whereas its annex 2 contained the 

justification for these proposals. 

6.12 Several delegations representing Parties to the MARPOL Convention supported the 

proposal by IACS. 

6.13 The Committee, after a short debate, approved the proposed amendment to section 5.8 of 

Form B of MARPOL Annex I, Appendix II, as set out in annex 19 to this report, and noted that 

the proposed amendment must follow the procedure set out in article 16 of the MARPOL 

Convention. Therefore, the Committee instructed the Secretariat to ensure the timely circulation 

of the proposed amendment in combination with the other amendments to Form B, which 

the Committee considered under item 10 of its agenda, at the recommendation of the 

DE Sub-Committee (MEPC 58/10/1, annex 2), in accordance with article 16 so that this 

amendment could be formally adopted at MEPC 59. 
MEPC 58/23 - 54 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

STATUS REPORT ON THE REVIEW OF MARPOL ANNEX V

6.14 The delegation of Canada reported on the status of the Correspondence Group’s progress 

on the Review of MARPOL Annex V and its Guidelines (MEPC 58/6/5). Members of the Group 

continued to discuss issues (i.e. an overall and technical assessment of Annex V; reception 

facilities and how they function in the waste management chain; managing garbage on board 

ships, etc.) and were examining scientific information on the global extent of marine debris, 

particularly from sea-based sources. A new revised text of Annex V and its Guidelines must be 

proposed in the final report of the Group to MEPC 59, but more analysis was needed to confirm 

that supporting evidence for any proposed changes was of a compelling nature. 

The Correspondence Group would continue its work in the intersessional period, guided by 

available scientific evidence, towards consensus on possible recommendations to the Committee, 

which may include: 

 .1 that no further action was required on Annex V; 

.2 the requirement for a specific amendment to Annex V or its Guidelines; 

.3 a proposal for a new work item for the Committee; 

.4 a request to another IMO body for consideration or action; and 

.5 a request to another United Nations organization for consideration or action. 

6.15 The delegation of the Netherlands, while acknowledging that the review of MARPOL 

Annex V was not an easy task to co-ordinate, expressed the view that the planned review should 

be completed at MEPC 59 in accordance with the terms of reference adopted at MEPC 57 

(MEPC 57, paragraph 5.12). To achieve this target, the delegation proposed that the 

Correspondence Group should focus its work, first, on developing a set of definitions under 

Annex V and, secondly, to start from the presumption of a general prohibition on the discharge of 

garbage from ships. 

6.16 This view was supported by several other delegations. The delegation of New Zealand 

noted in this respect that while no firm scientific conclusions could be drawn at this stage on the 

overall sources of marine debris or litter because of incomplete datasets, the fact that an 

unacceptable quantity of debris originated from the shipping industry demonstrated the need for 

completion of this review at MEPC 59. 

6.17 In conclusion, the Committee noted the status report and thanked the delegation of 

Canada, the Chairman and members of the Correspondence Group for the work done thus far. 

The Committee also instructed the Correspondence Group1

 to continue working during the 

intersessional period on the basis of clear definitions, as suggested, and with due regard to the 

suggested general prohibition on the discharge of garbage from ships and to submit a final report 

 

1

 Co-ordinator of the Correspondence Group:

Mr. Paul Topping 

 Manager, Environment Protection, AMSEE 

 Operations and Environmental Programs 

 Marine Safety, Transport Canada 

 Ottawa, Ontario K1A ON8 

 Tel: +613-991-3168 

 E-mail: toppinp@tc.gc.ca 
 - 55 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

to MEPC 59, as reflected in its Terms of Reference agreed at MEPC 57 (MEPC 57/21, 

paragraph 5.12). 

7 IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OPRC CONVENTION AND THE OPRC-HNS 

PROTOCOL AND RELEVANT CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS

7.1 The Committee considered three documents under this agenda item as follows: 

MEPC 58/WP.1, Report of the eighth meeting of the OPRC-HNS Technical Group; MEPC 58/7 

(Secretariat) Manual on assessment of oil spill risks and preparedness; and MEPC 58/7/1 

(Secretariat) IMO/UNEP Manual on the assessment and restoration of environmental damage 

following marine oil spills. 

Report of the eighth meeting of the OPRC-HNS Technical Group 

7.2 The Committee noted that the eighth session of the OPRC-HNS Technical Group was 

held from 29 September to 3 October 2008, under the chairmanship of Mr. Nick Quinn 

(New Zealand), and that the report of the Group was issued under symbol MEPC 58/WP.1. 

7.3 During consideration of the report of the Technical Group, the delegation of the Bahamas 

questioned whether the Technical Group could establish three Correspondence Groups like the 

Committee and Sub-Committees. 

7.4 The Committee noted the clarification provided by the Secretariat that the Technical 

Group had been established at MEPC 48 as a subsidiary body of the MEPC and that the 

Committee had agreed that the working arrangements of subsidiary bodies, as defined in the 

“Guidelines on the organization and method of work of the Maritime Safety Committee and 

Marine Environment Protection Committee and their subsidiary bodies” would apply to the 

Technical Group, as identified in the terms of reference established for it (MEPC 49/22/Add.1). 

7.5 The Committee noted the comments made by the delegation of the Netherlands, 

indicating its appreciation to the Technical Group for fully addressing the comments it had put 

forward at MEPC 57 with regard to the format of the work programme and consistency issues 

with the provisional agenda, as reflected in the new work programme. 

7.6 The Committee approved the report (MEPC 58/WP.1) in general and, in particular: 

.1 endorsed the view of the Group to submit the finalized text of the Guidance 

document on the identification and observation of spilled oil, for approval by 

MEPC 59, while noting the proposal to publish the document as a joint 

IMO/IPIECA publication; 

.2 concurred with the Group’s decision to combine the information contained in the 

Guidance document on the establishment of joint co-ordinated information 

centres, with that found in the Manual on incident command systems, and to 

develop these as a single Manual; 

.3 endorsed the view of the Group to submit the finalized draft course materials for 

two introductory courses on HNS, i.e. the Introduction to the response to HNS in 

the marine environment – Operational level and – Management level, for approval 

at MEPC 59; 
MEPC 58/23 - 56 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.4 urged Member States to report any marine casualties and incidents involving 

HNS, in accordance with the provisions of the Revised harmonized reporting 

procedures – Reports under SOLAS regulation I/21 and MARPOL 73/78, 

articles 8 and 12 (MSC-MEPC.3/Circ.1) utilizing the module on maritime 

casualties and incidents of the Global Integrated Shipping Information System 

(GISIS); 

.5 approved the revised terms of reference for the OPRC-HNS Technical Group, as 

set out in annex 20; 

.6 agreed with the prioritization of the two work items referred by MEPC 57, 

i.e. Oil spill response in ice and snow conditions and Updating of the IMO 

dispersant guidelines, as low priority items within the context of the Group’s work 

programme; 

.7 welcomed the election of Mr. Nick Quinn (New Zealand) as the new Chairman, 

and Mr. Suh Woo Rack (Republic of Korea) as the new Vice-Chairman of the 

OPRC-HNS Technical Group for the year 2009; and 

.8 approved the work programme and provisional agenda for the ninth meeting of the 

OPRC-HNS Technical Group, as set out in annexes 21 and 22 respectively, and 

the scheduling of the ninth session of the OPRC-HNS Technical Group the week 

prior to MEPC 59. 

Manual on assessment of oil spill risks and preparedness 

7.7 The Committee recalled that, further to its consideration of a proposal submitted by the 

Russian Federation for the development of an IMO Manual on Assessment of oil spill risks and 

preparedness at MEPC 49, it had approved the new work item and referred the matter to the 

OPRC-HNS Technical Group for action.

7.8 The Committee noted that the Group, at TG 5, having considered a draft of the Manual 

developed over a number of sessions and recognizing that it did not meet the needs of developing 

countries as well as could be expected, agreed on a new structure to address the identified 

shortcomings and a plan and timeframe for execution of the work. 

7.9 The Committee further noted that at TG 7, having reviewed the draft text developed on 

the basis of the new agreed structure, the Group had reached agreement on the finalized text of 

the Manual and instructed the Secretariat to undertake any final editing and to submit the 

finalized draft to MEPC 58 for approval. 

7.10 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/7 (Secretariat) containing the final draft 

text of the Manual on assessment of oil spill risks and preparedness, as agreed by the Technical 

Group at its seventh session. 

7.11 The delegation of the Russian Federation, having originally proposed the development of 

this Manual, expressed its support for and agreement to the draft under consideration, noting that 

it provided good strategic guidance for developing oil spill response capacity. The delegation 

further expressed its desire for, in addition to this guidance, the development of more practical 

and operational guidance, which could include specific examples that would assist users in 

developing a minimum level of response capacity, in particular for oil terminals. 
 - 57 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

7.12 The Committee approved the draft text of the Manual on assessment of oil spill risks and 

preparedness and instructed the Secretariat to work with IPIECA to prepare the document for 

publishing as a new volume in the IMO/IPIECA report series. 

IMO/UNEP Manual on the assessment and restoration of environmental damage following 

marine oil spills (MEPC 58/7/1) 

7.13 The Committee recalled that the OPRC-HNS Technical Group, at its second session, had 

first considered a draft Manual on natural resource damage assessment, as prepared by the United 

Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), following its experience of the Tasman Spirit oil spill 

incident that occurred in Karachi, Pakistan, in July 2003 (MEPC/OPRC-HNS/TG 2/11). 

7.14 The Committee recalled further that, given the relevance of the proposal to IMO’s 

ongoing work regarding preparedness and response to oil spills and the link with IMO’s activities 

in implementing the OPRC Convention and OPRC-HNS Protocol, and also building on IMO’s 

longstanding co-operation with UNEP, it had agreed to UNEP’s proposal to develop the 

above-mentioned Manual as a joint IMO-UNEP publication. Having considered this information 

at MEPC 52, the Committee had added this item to the work programme of the OPRC-HNS 

Technical Group. 

7.15 The Committee noted that the Group had encountered a number of challenges throughout 

the development of the Manual, which considerably lengthened the timeframe for its 

development and finalization. Having reached consensus on the outstanding issues at TG 6, the 

Technical Group finalized and reached agreement on the text at TG 7 and instructed the 

Secretariat to submit the Manual for approval at MEPC 58 (MEPC 57/WP.1). 

7.16 The Committee approved the draft text of the IMO/UNEP Manual on the assessment and 

restoration of environmental damage following marine oil spills and instructed the Secretariat to 

work with UNEP to prepare the document for publication as a joint IMO/UNEP Manual. 

7.17 The Committee noted the endorsement of the delegation of Italy of both Manuals, 

recognizing their usefulness, and its support for the ongoing work of the Technical Group. 

8 IDENTIFICATION AND PROTECTION OF SPECIAL AREAS AND PARTICULARLY 

SENSITIVE SEA AREAS 

Antarctic Shipping 

8.1 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57, having noted information provided by the 

observer from FOEI on Antarctic area vessel issues, in particular regarding concerns about the 

increased number and type of vessels operating in the Antarctic area, recent incidents and that the 

work programme of BLG 13 would include “Amendments to MARPOL Annex I on the use and 

carriage of heavy grade oil on ships in the Antarctic area”, invited proposals to future meetings of 

the Committee, and the BLG Sub-Committee, as appropriate. 

8.2 The observer from FOEI, on behalf of the co-sponsors of document MEPC 58/8 

(FOEI, Greenpeace International, IFAW and WWF) on Antarctic Shipping, highlighted that, 

while the Antarctic area south of 60o

S latitude is recognized as sensitive and vulnerable to the 

impacts of pollution and had been designated as a Special Area under MARPOL Annexes I, II 

and V, the area remained vulnerable to the threat from international shipping. 
MEPC 58/23 - 58 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

8.3 The observer from FOEI suggested that a joint IMO/Antarctic Treaty Consultative 

Meeting (ATCM) Working Group be established to consider and collaborate on solutions to 

shipping threats in the Antarctic Treaty Area. The observer proposed that the main task of this 

joint Working Group would be: to conduct a comprehensive assessment of potential risks and 

impacts on the area from vessels; identify the presence or absence of a measure to address those 

impacts; analyse whether a measure exists or whether it has been effectively implemented; and, 

whether further action is needed. It was also suggested that for the Antarctic Treaty Area, or 

discrete areas within the area, a risk assessment and assessment against the PSSA Guidelines 

should be undertaken, and IMO measures developed as associative protective measures (APMs), 

if appropriate. 

8.4 The observer from FOEI, also proposed that the Committee endorse the Antarctic and 

Southern Ocean Coalition (an umbrella NGO group that includes FOEI, Greenpeace 

International, IFAW and WWF) proposal to host a Workshop in 2009, to work on a 

comprehensive assessment of the threats to the Antarctic area from the full range of vessels 

operating in the area. The Workshop would seek to address both risks and routine operations and 

begin identifying appropriate mitigation measures. 

8.5 All the delegations that spoke, including Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Egypt, Italy, 

New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom shared the concerns of 

the co-sponsors regarding the increased number and types of vessels operating in the Antarctic 

Treaty area and the importance of protecting this area through greater collaboration between 

IMO and the Parties to the Antarctic Treaty. 

8.6 The Committee noted the view of Argentina that it considered the Antarctic Treaty as the 

competent instrument to guide the protection of the marine environment in that continent and, 

therefore, no joint IMO-ATCM Working Group would be needed. 

8.7 The Committee noted New Zealand’s invitation to participate in the Antarctic Treaty 

Meeting of Experts (ATME) on the management of ship-borne tourism in the Antarctic Treaty 

area that it would host in Wellington from 6 to 8 December 20092

. 

8.8 Several delegations stressed the importance of work currently being undertaken by the 

Organization, including work scheduled for the BLG Sub-Committee, as set out in paragraph 8.1, 

and the work scheduled for the DE Sub-Committee on Amendments to the Guidelines for ships 

operating in Arctic ice-covered waters (Polar Code), which, when finalized, would apply to both 

Polar Regions. Members were reminded to include experts in polar matters on their delegations 

to future sessions of these meetings. 

8.9 Having considered the action points in paragraph 19 of document MEPC 58/8, and noting 

that all interested parties can attend MEPC meetings and submit documents and, if needed, an 

ad hoc group could be established during MEPC, the Committee decided that a joint 

IMO-ATCM Working Group should not be established at present. The Committee, however, 

endorsed the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition’s proposal to host a Workshop in 2009 to 

address both risks and routine operations and begin identifying appropriate mitigation measures. 

The Committee agreed that no financial or human resources could be made available by IMO for 

this purpose. 

 

2 Interested Members should contact: 

 Mr. Trevor Hughes, Antarctic Policy Unit, Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade. trevor.hughes@mfat.govt.nz
 - 59 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

9 INADEQUACY OF RECEPTION FACILITIES 

9.1 The Committee recalled that with regard to work item 5.1 (Development of Guidelines 

for establishing regional arrangements for reception facilities) in the Action Plan on the 

inadequacy of port reception facilities, it had agreed at MEPC 55 that it was not appropriate to 

adopt a further MEPC resolution to recognize regional arrangements as satisfying MARPOL 

obligations in view of the fact that the relevant MARPOL regulations require each Party to 

provide reception facilities, and that regional arrangements may contravene the current 

MARPOL requirements. Recognizing though the benefit of having such regional arrangements 

in place, MEPC 55 had agreed to recognize the benefit of regional arrangements as means of 

providing reception facilities. 

9.2 The Committee further recalled that it had requested Member States to provide their 

views to future sessions of the Committee on how these regional arrangements could be better 

institutionalized but that no submissions had been received at either MEPC 56 or MEPC 57. 

The invitation to Member States to submit relevant information for consideration had 

consequently been reiterated, bearing in mind that the target completion date for work item 5.1 of 

the Action Plan is 2008. 

9.3 In response, document MEPC 58/9 (Australia, Marshall Islands, New Zealand, the United 

States, Vanuatu and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP)) 

had been submitted outlining views on how regional arrangements for reception facilities in 

small island and less developed archipelagic States could be better institutionalized. 

9.4 In reviewing document MEPC 58/9, the Committee noted that the co-sponsors support 

regional arrangements when unique circumstances prevail and that the co-sponsors believe that, 

as an example, in the case of the Pacific Region’s small islands and less developed archipelagic 

States, such circumstances have been clearly demonstrated. 

9.5 The Bahamas, supported by a number of delegations, expressed general support for the 

principles presented in document MEPC 58/9, while stressing that the approach could also be 

applicable to similar States in the Caribbean. 

9.6 The delegation of Norway, in supporting the approach in principle, expressed the view 

that the proposal to institutionalize the regional arrangements by amending the relevant 

MARPOL Annexes would not be a straight forward task as regional arrangements might 

contravene the current MARPOL requirements. Therefore, this should be approached carefully. 

9.7 The delegation of the Netherlands, in supporting Norway, advised that they had identified 

a number of practical concerns which would need to be addressed but offered support in working 

to resolve these issues. 

9.8 The delegation of Cuba made a statement concerning the current situation of port 

reception facilities in Cuba after the passage of two hurricanes which destroyed equipment 

intended to comply with MARPOL regulations. The delegation of Cuba requested the assistance 

of IMO in order to re-establish the damaged services. The text of this statement is set out in 

annex 23. 

9.9 Following discussions, the Committee endorsed the two main elements in document 

MEPC 58/9: 
MEPC 58/23 - 60 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 in order to institutionalize regional arrangements for providing reception 

facilities, appropriate amendments should be made to the relevant MARPOL 

Annexes and resolution MEPC.83(44); and 

.2 until any future amendments to the relevant MARPOL Annexes are adopted 

and entered into force, the decision of MEPC 55 to recognize the benefit of 

regional arrangements as a means of providing reception facilities should 

continue. 

9.10 With respect to developing amendments to the relevant MARPOL Annexes, Member 

States were invited to propose appropriate amendments to a future session of the Committee. 

10 REPORTS OF SUB-COMMITTEES 

OUTCOME OF BLG 12 

10.1 The Committee recalled that the twelfth session of the Sub-Committee on Bulk Liquids 

and Gases (BLG 12) had been held from 4 to 8 February 2008 and that its report was issued as 

document BLG 12/17. 

10.2 The Committee noted that urgent matters emanating from BLG 12 relating to the 

“Prevention of air pollution from ships” and “Harmful aquatic organisms in ballast water” had 

already been dealt with at MEPC 57. 

10.3 It was noted further that the outcome of BLG 12 on other ballast water management 

issues had been addressed separately under agenda item 2. 

10.4 The Committee approved the report of BLG 12 in general and took action as indicated 

hereunder on all remaining items referred to it by the Sub-Committee as reflected in document 

MEPC 58/10 (Secretariat). 

Draft amendments to MARPOL Annex I 

10.5 The Committee considered the draft amendments to MARPOL Annex I on the prevention 

of pollution during the transfer of oil cargo between oil tankers at sea. In this context, 

the Committee noted two documents: MEPC 58/10/4 (IACS) and MEPC 58/10/7 (Liberia, 

the Marshall Islands, Singapore, the United States, INTERTANKO, ICS and OCIMF) proposing 

further modifications to the draft which had been submitted for consideration. 

10.6 In document MEPC 58/10/4 from IACS, it was noted that ship-to-ship transfer (STS) 

operations require both oil tankers involved in the transfer to have an approved STS plan and that 

accordingly, a practical implementation regime is required in order to accommodate this 

situation. 

10.7 It was proposed to address this by linking the provision of an STS plan to the first 

IOPP survey following entry into force of the new regulation. All STS operations carried out 

on/after 15 months from the entry-into-force date would then need to be in accordance with the 

approved plan. 
 - 61 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

10.8 This approach was widely endorsed by a number of Member States and these modifications 

to the draft amendment were accordingly agreed. The length of the application timeline 

was discussed but it was accepted that 15 months was needed in order to accommodate a 

permissible 3 months’ grace period on the survey date. 

10.9 Following an intervention from OCIMF to request clarification that approval could be 

through the Safety Management System Documentation and that it was not a requirement for 

approval of a stand-alone STS plan, it was confirmed that this was indeed the intent of the 

regulation. 

10.10 In document MEPC 58/10/7, it was proposed by the co-sponsors that draft regulation 42 

(“advance notification”) of MARPOL Annex I should either be deleted from the present 

amendments or modified such that notification of STS transfers are only required for operations 

within territorial seas or internal waters. 

10.11 After extensive debate on this issue reflecting on the impact of a notification period both 

in terms of commercial considerations and rights under UNCLOS, it was agreed that draft 

regulation 42 should be retained but that the reference to the exclusive economic zone in 

paragraph 1 should be placed in square brackets, with a decision on this point to be taken at 

MEPC 59. 

10.12 The Committee approved, with a few changes, the draft amendments to MARPOL 

Annex I concerning prevention of pollution during transfer of oil cargo between oil tankers at 

sea, as set out in annex 24, with a view to adoption at MEPC 59. 

Other issues 

10.13 The Committee endorsed the Sub-Committee’s view that, in principle, the Chairman of 

the GESAMP/EHS Working Group should be present, if needed, at ESPH Working Group 

meetings during the debate on the report and the discussion on the evaluation of new products for 

inclusion in the IBC Code. The Committee agreed that, if needed, funding support should be 

made available from the revenue arising from the new charging mechanism put into place for 

EHS evaluations. 

10.14 The Committee noted the Sub-Committee’s agreement to specify in the cover note of 

MEPC.2/Circ.14 that MEPC.2/Circ.13 would remain valid until 31 December 2008 and that 

MEPC.2/Circ.14 will become effective on 1 January 2009. This action was needed in order to tie 

in with the adoption of the 2007 amendments to the IBC Code which would enter into force 

on 1 January 2009. The Committee further noted that the temporary precedence arrangements 

previously applied to List 1 products in the MEPC.2/Circular would no longer be required. 

10.15 The Committee noted the Sub-Committee’s view on issuing a new publication of the 

IBC Code in order to clarify the product listings in force following the introduction of the new 

amendments. 

10.16 The Committee endorsed the future work programme for the intersessional meeting of the 

ESPH Working Group from 27 to 31 October 2008 and noted that the revision of chapter 19 of 

the IBC Code would continue as part of the work programme with a target completion date 

of 2009. 
MEPC 58/23 - 62 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

10.17 The Committee, noting MSC 84’s concurrent decision, approved the holding of an 

intersessional meeting of the ESPH Working Group in 2009. 

10.18 The Sub-Committee’s progress in its consideration of the application of requirements for 

bio-fuels and bio-fuel blends was noted. 

10.19 With respect to the proposal to expand the terms of reference of the ESPH Working 

Group to include blending on board during the sea voyage, whilst some delegations advised that 

this was an ongoing practice and therefore a concern, others had the view that insufficient 

information had been made available to support this point. 

10.20 The Committee agreed that a final decision on whether to expand the terms of reference 

on this topic should be taken by the BLG Sub-Committee. If a need is demonstrated by the 

submission of relevant information and agreed by BLG 13, the Intersessional ESPH Working 

Group may then, on this occasion, work on this issue during 2009. In view of this decision, it 

was noted that only shore blended bio-fuel blends can be addressed at the forthcoming ESPH 14 

meeting. 

10.21 The Committee noted that the Sub-Committee had agreed to establish an intersessional 

correspondence group on the development of measures for minimizing the transfer of invasive 

aquatic species through bio-fouling of ships to further progress the issue and report to BLG 13. 

10.22 Following MSC 84’s concurrent decision, the Committee approved the proposed revised 

work programme of the Sub-Committee and the provisional agenda for BLG 13. This included a 

new high-priority item on the work programme and agenda for BLG 13 on Amendments to 

MARPOL Annex I on the use and carriage of heavy grade oil (HGO) in the Antarctic area 

(see paragraph 19.9). With respect to the latter item, the Committee agreed that the 

Sub-Committee should be requested to develop amendments for review at MEPC 59. 

10.23 The Committee endorsed the course of action taken by the Sub-Committee to approve 

BLG.1/Circ.23 on requirements for the carriage of Gas-to-Liquid oils and agreed also to issue 

this as MEPC.1/Circ.639. 

OUTCOME OF DE 51 

10.24 The Committee recalled that the fifty-first session of the Sub-Committee on Ship Design 

and Equipment (DE 51) had been held from 18 to 22 February 2008 and that its report was issued 

as document DE 51/28. 

10.25 The Committee noted that, although DE 51 was held before MEPC 57, no urgent items 

arising from DE 51 had to be addressed at the last session of the Committee. 

10.26 The Committee approved the report of DE 51 in general and took action on the items 

referred to it by the Sub-Committee as reflected in document MEPC 58/10/1 (Secretariat) as 

indicated hereunder.

Draft amendments to MARPOL Annex I and consequential amendments to the IOPP 

Certificate and ORB 

10.27 The Committee considered the draft amendments to MARPOL Annex I but noted that 

further text changes had been proposed in document MEPC 58/10/6 (Ireland) relating to the text 

of existing regulation 12.1 and the combination of draft subparagraphs 12.2.2 and 12.2.3. 
 - 63 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

10.28 The Committee accepted these changes and agreed to modify the text accordingly. In this 

context, it was noted that in view of the renumbering of existing paragraphs 2 and 3, there would 

be a consequential need to also update the Unified interpretations applicable to these paragraphs 

(U.I.16 and U.I.17, respectively). 

10.29 With respect to the new subparagraphs proposed in the draft amendments for 

Regulation 1 – Definitions, the term “waste oil” as used in paragraph 1.31 was questioned by the 

delegation of the Netherlands, as “waste oil” is not defined. To avoid any misunderstandings on 

this point, it was agreed that “waste oil” should be qualified as “generated during the normal 

operation of a ship”. 

10.30 The Committee subsequently approved the draft amendments to regulations 1, 12, 13, 17 

and 38 of MARPOL Annex I, with a view to adoption at MEPC 59, as set out in annex 25. 

10.31 The Committee also approved draft amendments to the Supplement to the 

IOPP Certificate Forms A and B, with a view to adoption at MEPC 59, as set out in annex 26. 

10.32 The Committee noted that the Sub-Committee had noted views that the development of 

unified interpretations on the use of code letters in the Oil Record Book would be beneficial. 

The delegation of the Netherlands advised that they did not support this view since it was 

preferable to have clarity in the interpretation of the code letters in the Oil Record Book itself, 

revising the text as needed. 

10.33 The Committee considered draft amendments to the Supplement to the Oil Record Book 

Parts I and II but noted that further text changes had been proposed in document MEPC 58/10/6 

(Ireland) relating to footnote changes for sections C and I in List of Items to be recorded for ORB 

Part 1. The delegation of Denmark, having consulted with other delegations, expressed the view 

that whilst there was support for the footnote amendment for section C, the information conveyed 

by the proposed footnote for section I (relating to voluntary entries pertaining to bilge tanks) 

would be better communicated via a Circular. This was accepted by the Committee. The draft 

amendments to the Oil Record Book, as set out in annex 27, were approved by the Committee 

with a view to adoption at its next session. 

10.34 Having taken the above decisions, the Committee requested the Secretary-General to 

circulate the proposed amendments to MARPOL Annex I, the IOPP Certificate and Oil Record 

Book in accordance with the requirements of article 16 of the MARPOL Convention with a view 

to adoption at MEPC 59. 

10.35 On the issue of communicating guidance to seafarers who are already using evaporation 

from sludge tanks as a method of reducing sludge volumes, as raised by the Marshall Islands and 

others in document MEPC 58/10/5, the Committee agreed to request the Secretariat to issue a 

Circular (MEPC.1/Circ.640) advising that the proper way of recording such operations in the Oil 

Record Book was to utilize code letter C.12.4. This Circular should also communicate the 

information referred to above in 10.33 in relation to the note on voluntary entries pertaining to 

the content of bilge tanks. 

10.36 The Committee agreed that the MEPC circular should be brought to the attention of the 

FSI Sub-Committee, in order to consider its alignment with port State control procedures. 

10.37 The delegation of Denmark advised that they intended to propose guidelines to the Oil 

Record Book for consideration at the Committee’s next session. 
MEPC 58/23 - 64 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

10.38 As an additional point, the Committee noted that guidance was required as to what 

percentage reduction in the volume of sludge from evaporation should be accepted. To address 

this issue, the Committee agreed to refer this matter to the DE Sub-Committee for consideration. 

Bilge and sludge handling issues 

10.39 The Committee noted that the Sub-Committee, with regard to the issue of a mandatory 

phase-out of oily water separators and oil discharge monitoring systems complying with 

resolutions MEPC.60(33) and A.586(14), had invited Member Governments and interested 

organizations to submit comments and proposals to DE 52 under the agenda item “Any other 

business”. 

10.40 The Committee concurred with the view of the Sub-Committee that, with regard to the 

issue of electronic means to control oil discharges from ships, while the use of electronic means 

to control oil discharges on board ships should be possible, those means should not be intended 

as a replacement of the current Oil Record Book, which had proved to be an effective way of 

controlling illegal discharges, but rather as a supplement to it, which could help reinforce 

compliance, and should only be fitted voluntarily. 

10.41 The Committee approved an MEPC circular on Supplementary guidelines on approval of 

bilge and sludge handling systems for compliance with MARPOL Annex I (DE 51/28, annex 10) 

and requested the Secretariat to issue this as MEPC.1/Circ.641. 

10.42 The Committee also approved a draft MSC/MEPC circular on Blanking of bilge 

discharge piping systems in port, subject to concurrent decision by MSC 85 later this year. 

10.43 The Committee noted that the DE Sub-Committee has requested the FP Sub-Committee 

to consider the matter of safety issues associated with the heating of oil residue (sludge) to a level 

likely to be above its flashpoint as a method to reduce its water content, and provide advice to 

MEPC accordingly. 

10.44 In this context, the Committee noted the concerns on this issue expressed in document 

MEPC 58/10/5 but agreed that the work tasked to the FP Sub-Committee should continue. 

Member States were invited to submit any relevant information to the FP Sub-Committee which 

may facilitate their work in order that further decisions may be taken at MEPC 59. 

10.45 The Committee approved an MEPC circular on Amendments to the Revised guidelines 

for systems handling oily wastes in machinery spaces of ships incorporating guidance notes for 

an integrated bilge water treatment system (IBTS) (DE 51/28, annex 12) and requested the 

Secretariat to issue this as MEPC.1/Circ.642. 

10.46 The Committee also approved an MEPC circular on Harmonized implementation of the 

Revised guidelines and specifications for pollution prevention equipment for machinery spaces 

of ships during the type-approval process (DE 51/28, annex 13) and requested the Secretariat to 

issue this as MEPC.1/Circ.643. 

10.47 In this regard, it was noted that document MEPC 58/10/9 (United Kingdom and 

IMarEST) questioned if a new test procedure for chemical separation treatments which operate 

on a cyclic process was now needed (since the normal test methods based on a continuous flow 

of fluid cannot be applied in such cases). The Committee recognized that this may be beneficial 

and invited proposals to be put forward for consideration at a future session of the Committee. 
 - 65 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Unified interpretation to regulation 12.1 of MARPOL Annex I 

10.48 The Committee considered the revocation of Unified Interpretation 15.1.5 to 

regulation 12.1 of MARPOL Annex I but noted that further clarification on how this should be 

applied had been proposed in document MEPC 58/10/8 (Japan). This reflected the view that the 

current UI 15.1.5 should continue to be applicable to ships on which the building contract is 

placed before the date of the revocation of UI 15.1.5 or, in the absence of a building contract, the 

keel of which is laid before the same date. Additionally, it proposed that revocation of UI 15.1.5 

should take effect on the same date when amendments to MARPOL Annex I, which relate to the 

definition of “oil residue (sludge) tanks”, enter into force. 

10.49 The Committee agreed with the proposal and endorsed the new text proposed 

for UI 15.1.5 as set out in annex 28. 

Other issues 

10.50 The Committee considered the development of a unified interpretation for new ships which 

will give the possibility for reduction of the oil residue (sludge) tank capacity equal to the size of 

the incinerator capacity or other oil residue (sludge) reduction equipment. This was not supported 

by the Committee and it was concluded that there was no need for a Unified Interpretation. 

10.51 The Committee noted the view of the Sub-Committee that the draft amendments to 

SOLAS regulation II-1/3-5.2 agreed at the session, prohibiting all new installations of asbestos 

on board ships without exceptions, might have an impact on the Ship Recycling Convention 

currently under development. 

OUTCOME OF FSI 16

10.52 The Committee recalled that the sixteenth session of the Sub-Committee on Flag State 

Implementation (FSI 16) was held from 2 to 6 June 2008 and its report was issued as document 

FSI 16/18. 

10.53 The Committee approved the report of FSI 16 in general and, in particular, took action on 

the items referred to it by the Sub-Committee as reflected in document MEPC 58/10/2 

(Secretariat), indicated hereunder. 

10.54 The Committee endorsed the Sub-Committee’s decision to request the Secretariat to 

collate the proposals for the completion of the study on the combination of casualty and 

port State control data and to identify the datasets that might be needed for combining casualty 

and PSC data. 

10.55 The Committee also endorsed the Sub-Committee’s decision not to require Members to 

complete Part 3 of their MARPOL reports under MEPC/Circ.318 starting from 2008, as the 

Secretariat can utilize data extracted from the GISIS module on port reception facilities when 

compiling summary reports for the Annual Enforcement Report on Reception Facilities (Parts 3a 

and 3b of MEPC/Circ.318). 

10.56 The Committee further endorsed the Sub-Committee’s agreement to consider amending 

MEPC/Circ.318 at a later stage when it becomes clear whether the reporting requirements for the 

Annual Statistic Report on MARPOL-related discrepancies and detentions (Part 4 of 

MEPC/Circ.318) could also be satisfied through a data extraction from GISIS, thereby avoiding 

two amendments of MEPC/Circ.318 within a relatively short period of time. 
MEPC 58/23 - 66 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

10.57 The Committee approved the Advanced Notification Form (ANF) of the Action Plan on 

Tackling the Inadequacy of Port Reception Facilities (FSI 16/5, annex 1) and requested the 

Secretariat to issue this as MEPC.1/Circ.644. 

10.58 The Committee also approved the Waste Delivery Receipt (WDR) of the Action Plan on 

Tackling the Inadequacy of Port Reception Facilities (FSI 16/5, annex 2) and requested the 

Secretariat to issue this as MEPC.1/Circ.645. In this context, as commented earlier, it was noted 

that waste should be qualified as meaning that “generated during the normal operation of a ship”. 

10.59 The Committee endorsed the Sub-Committee’s agreement to extend the target completion 

date of work items 2.1, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.2 and 5.3 of the Action Plan on Tackling the 

Inadequacy of Port Reception Facilities to 2009. 

10.60 The Committee considered the proposed MSC-MEPC.3 circular on Reports on marine 

casualties and incidents (FSI 16/18, annex 1). In reviewing this, it was noted that there is an 

oversight in annex 2 of the draft MSC-MEPC.3 circular as it is currently set out. This relates to 

section 7.3.3 of annex 2 of the draft where the category options for Chemicals in Bulk are 

presented using the old MARPOL system of A, B, C, D. Following the revision of MARPOL 

Annex II, the new pollution categories of X, Y, Z and OS should be employed and the draft 

circular needs to be corrected accordingly. Subject to this amendment and to concurrent decision 

by MSC 85 later this year, the Committee approved the MSC-MEPC.3 circular.

10.61 The Committee endorsed the Sub-Committee’s decision on the issues of the finalization 

of protocols with the Secretariats of those PSC regimes, which have agreed in principle with the 

data exchange of reports on all PSC inspections, and the establishment of the data exchange with 

the PSC Information Centres. 

10.62 The Committee noted the Sub-Committee’s view that the draft MSC/MEPC circular on 

Blanking of bilge discharge piping systems in port did not need any changes, and its request to 

the Secretariat to provide all PSC regimes with a copy of the draft circular, as requested by 

DE 51. 

10.63 The Committee further noted the Sub-Committee’s agreement to re-establish the 

Correspondence Group on Port State Control and its instruction, inter alia, to initiate the 

development of draft Guidelines on PSC under the 2004 BWM Convention taking into account 

the outcome of MEPC 58 on Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2). 

10.64 The Committee approved, subject to MSC’s concurrent decision, an MSC-MEPC circular 

on Unified interpretation of the application of regulations governed by the building contract date, 

the keel-laying date and the delivery date for the requirements of the SOLAS and the MARPOL 

Conventions. 

10.65 The Committee concurred with the Sub-Committee’s recommendation to add an annex 7 

to the Code for the Implementation of Mandatory IMO Instruments showing the amendments to 

IMO instruments not yet accepted at the date of revision of the Code, but expected to be accepted 

and to enter into force within the following months, and instructed the Sub-Committee to develop 

this accordingly, subject to MSC’s concurrent decision and the endorsement of the Council. 

10.66 The Committee noted the outcome of the Sub-Committee’s review of the question of the 

applicability of IMO Conventions to FPSOs and FSUs. 
 - 67 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

10.67 The Committee approved the proposed revised work programme of the Sub-Committee 

and provisional agenda for FSI 17 (see paragraph 19.13). 

10.68 The Committee endorsed the report on the status of the Sub-Committee’s planned outputs 

in the High-level Action Plan for the current biennium. 

Review of the Consolidated Audit Summary Report 

10.69 The Committee noted that, as requested by MEPC 57 (MEPC 57/21, paragraph 10.27), 

the Sub-Committee had considered document A 25/8/2 on the Consolidated Audit Summary 

Report (FSI 16/18, paragraph 14.35) and had requested its Correspondence Group on the Review 

of the Survey Guidelines under HSSC and the Code for the Implementation of Mandatory 

IMO Instruments to conduct a detailed review of the Summary Report with a view to: 

.1 developing a methodology for the analysis of the Summary Report so as to 

provide feedback to Member States and the Organization on the recurrent 

findings, including identification of possible underlying causes and best practices; 

and 

.2 making recommendations on the effectiveness of the implementation by 

Member States of mandatory instruments falling within the scope of the audit 

scheme, and on the areas where specific technical co-operation activities would 

benefit Member States. 

10.70 The Committee noted that the outcome of FSI 17 (April 2009) on the report of the 

Correspondence Group would be submitted to MEPC 59 for consideration with a view to then 

informing the Council and the Assembly in due course. 

OUTCOME OF NAV 54 

10.71 The Committee recalled that the fifty-fourth session of the Sub-Committee on Safety of 

Navigation (NAV 54) was held from 30 June to 4 July 2008 and its report was issued as 

document NAV 54/25. 

10.72 The Committee noted the information referred to it by the Sub-Committee as outlined in 

document MEPC 58/10/3 (Secretariat) in relation to “Amendments to the existing ship reporting 

system for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument Particularly Sensitive Sea Area, 

(CORAL SHIPREP)” and the “Impact of resolution MEPC.118(52) (revised MARPOL 

Annex II) upon existing AIS shipboard installations”. 

OUTCOME OF SLF 51 

10.73 The Committee recalled that the fifty-first session of the Sub-Committee on Stability and 

Load Lines and on Fishing Vessels Safety (SLF 51) was held from 14 to 18 July 2008 and its 

report was issued as document SLF 51/17. 

10.74 From the report of SLF 51, the Committee noted the following comment, in relation to 

the “Impact of small pleasure and fishing craft on the marine environment”: 
MEPC 58/23 - 68 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

“5.26 Recalling the comments made in plenary and the instruction by MSC 84 on 

addressing the possible action by IMO on the impact of small pleasure and fishing craft 

on the marine environment, the Sub-Committee noted the group’s concern that it had 

minimal expertise in environmental matters and, therefore, it could not properly address 

these issues. Consequently, the Sub-Committee agreed that relevant environmental issues 

should be addressed by the MEPC, in consultation with other UN agencies and 

non-governmental organizations, and invited MEPC 58 to consider the above view and 

take action as appropriate.” 

10.75 In the context of this comment, the Committee decided that this matter should be 

considered further at MEPC 59. 

OUTCOME OF DSC 13 

10.76 The Committee recalled that the thirteenth session of the Sub-Committee on Dangerous 

Goods, Solid Cargoes and Containers (DSC 13) was held from 22 to 26 September 2008, but 

noted that, with respect to DSC 13, no urgent matters have come forward and, consequently, the 

outcome of this meeting relating to the Committee’s work will be submitted to MEPC 59 for 

consideration. 

11 WORK OF OTHER BODIES

11.1 Under this agenda item the Committee had before it three documents and agreed to deal 

with them in the following order: 

 .1 Outcome of TCC 58: document MEPC 58/11; 

 .2 Outcome of MSC 84: document MEPC 58/11/1; and 

 .3 Outcome of the one hundredth session of the Council: document MEPC 58/11/2. 

OUTCOME OF TC 58 

11.2 The Committee noted that the fifty-eighth session of the Technical Co-operation 

Committee was held from 10 to 12 June 2008 and its report was circulated as document 

TC 58/13. Those matters of relevance to the Committee’s work had been reported in document 

MEPC 58/11 (Secretariat). 

11.3 The Committee agreed to take into account all issues related to marine environment 

protection in that report under agenda item 15 – Technical Co-operation Sub-programme for the 

Protection of the Marine Environment. 

OUTCOME OF MSC 84 

11.4 The Committee noted that the eighty-fourth session of the Maritime Safety Committee 

was held from 7 to 16 May 2008 and its report was circulated under the symbol MSC 84/24 and 

Adds.1, 2 and 3. The outcome of MSC 84 relevant to the work of this Committee had been 

summarized in document MEPC 58/11/1 (Secretariat). 
 - 69 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

11.5 The Committee noted also that the outcomes of MSC 84 on the Human Element (HE); 

Formal Safety Assessment (FSA); Work Programme of the Committee and subsidiary 

bodies and the Application of the Committees’ Guidelines would be considered under agenda 

items 16, 17, 19, and 20, respectively. 

11.6 In considering document MEPC 58/11/1, the Committee agreed to note, in general, the 

outcomes of MSC 84 on all issues of relevance to its work and take MSC 84’s action into 

account, as appropriate, under the relevant items of its agenda. 

11.7 The Committee noted, in particular, that MSC 84 had taken action on the following 

matters of interest to its work, as reported hereunder: 

.1 adoption of the Casualty Investigation Code (resolution MSC.255(84)); 

.2 adoption of amendments to the IMDG Code (resolution MSC.262(84)); 

.3 adoption of amendments to the Guidelines on the Enhanced Survey Programme of 

inspections during surveys of bulk carriers and oil tankers 

(resolution MSC.261(84)); 

.4 adoption of Revised performance standards and functional requirements for LRIT 

(resolution MSC.263(84)); and Establishment of the LRIT data exchange on an 

interim basis (resolution MSC.264(84)); 

.5 on the issue of possible need for amendments to IMO instruments, including 

MARPOL, following the eventual adoption of the Goal-based new ship 

construction standards (GBS) for bulk carriers and oil tankers, MSC 84 agreed to 

consider the matter in detail at MSC 85 when the GBS are expected to be 

finalized; 

.6 having noted the concurrent decision of MEPC 57, MSC 84 endorsed the action 

taken by DSC 12 in issuing DSC.1/Circ.54 on Information on the amendments to 

the IMDG Code marine pollutant provisions during the voluntary implementation 

period of the amendments, from 1 January to 31 December 2009; 

.7 having noted the concurrent decision of MEPC 57, MSC 84 endorsed the action 

taken by DSC 12 in issuing DSC.1/Circ.55 on Guidance on the application of 

chapter 2.10 (Marine Pollutants) of the IMDG Code following amendment 33-06; 

.8 MSC 84 agreed that, in the context of reducing the generation of SOx gases when 

furthering the development of provisions for gas-fuelled ships, the relevant 

provisions of MARPOL Annex VI, as amended, should be taken into account; 

.9 MSC 84 concurred with MEPC 57’s decision that an intersessional meeting of the 

ESPH Working Group should be held some time in 2009; 

.10 having noted that MEPC 57 had agreed to a joint MSC-MEPC circular requesting 

Members Governments to collect data on halons for the maritime sector and report 

this information directly to the Ozone Secretariat, MSC 84 agreed that the circular 

should not be misunderstood to mean that halons could not be used to extinguish a 

fire on board a ship, and approved MSC-MEPC.1/Circ.3 on Decreasing 
MEPC 58/23 - 70 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

availability of halons for marine use, having added a new paragraph 5 in that 

respect; 

.11 MSC 84 agreed to refer documents MEPC 57/20 and MEPC 57/INF.18 on the 

impact of small pleasure and fishing craft on the marine environment, which 

MEPC 57 had invited the MSC to consider in the context of its work on the safety 

of fishing vessels, to the SLF Sub-Committee for advice; and 

.12 MSC 84 agreed to refer the issue of possible updates of AIS after the entry into 

force of the revised MARPOL Annex II on 1 January 2007, to the 

NAV Sub-Committee for consideration (see paragraph 10.72). 

11.8 In addition, the Committee noted that MSC 84, had noted the request of MEPC 57, in the 

context of the MSC resolution on use of LRIT information for safety and marine environmental 

protection purposes (MSC.242(83)), to seek in the future the view of the MEPC prior to adoption 

of similar resolutions. 

OUTCOME OF C 100 

11.9 The Committee noted that the one hundredth session of the Council was held 

from 16 to 20 June 2008 and its summary of decisions was issued under the symbol C 100/D. 

The matters of interest to the Committee had been summarized in document MEPC 58/11/2, 

including the Council’s action concerning the report of MEPC 57. 

11.10 The Committee noted further that C 100 also considered issues associated with Strategy 

and planning – Monitoring of performance; Voluntary IMO Member State Audit Scheme; 

Relations with intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations; and Report on the status 

of conventions and other multilateral instruments, all of which are relevant to the work of the 

Committee. 

11.11 The Committee noted, finally, that C 100 had endorsed the Secretary-General’s proposal 

that the theme for World Maritime Day 2009 should be “Climate change: A challenge for IMO 

too!”. 

Application for consultative status 

11.12 On the issue of Relations with non-governmental organizations, the Committee 

considered applications from four NGOs for consultative status with IMO referred to it by C 100 

for further screening, namely the International Ship Recycling Association (ISRA), the 

International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), the World Shipping Council (WSC) and 

NACE International. 

11.13 In considering the application by ISRA, the Committee concurred with the view 

expressed by the delegation of India and supported by the delegation of France, that ISRA does 

not have members in the major ship recycling States and, therefore, the Committee agreed to 

recommend to Council that consultative status should not be granted to ISRA. 

11.14 The Committee agreed to establish a small informal group meeting outside normal 

working hours under the chairmanship of Mr. Chatterjee (Vice-Chairman of the Committee) to 

further screen the applications of ICCT, WSC and NACE International, in accordance with the 

Rules Governing Relationships with Non-Governmental International Organizations, and report 

back to plenary. 
 - 71 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

11.15 Having received the report of the informal group (MEPC 58/WP.10), the Committee 

agreed to recommend to the Council that consultative status should: 

 .1 be granted to the World Shipping Council (WSC); and 

.2 not be granted to the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) 

and NACE International. 

12 STATUS OF CONVENTIONS 

12.1 The Committee noted the information on the status of IMO conventions and other 

instruments relating to marine environment protection (MEPC 58/12) as follows: 

.1 Annex 1 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of the IMO conventions and other 

instruments relating to marine environment protection; 

.2 Annex 2 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of MARPOL; 

.3 Annex 3 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of the amendments to MARPOL; 

.4 Annex 4 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of the 1990 OPRC Convention; 

.5 Annex 5 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of the 2000 OPRC-HNS Protocol; 

.6 Annex 6 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of the 2001 AFS Convention; and 

.7 Annex 7 shows the status, as at 30 June 2008, of the 2004 BWM Convention. 

12.2 The Committee also noted the following information provided by the Secretariat since 

document MEPC 58/12 was issued on 30 June 2008. 

.1 With regard to annex 2 on the status of MARPOL: 

.1 The United Republic of Tanzania deposited its instrument of accession 

to MARPOL Annexes I, II, III, IV and V on 23 July 2008; 

.2 Chile deposited its instrument of accession to MARPOL Annex V 

on 15 August 2008; 

.3 The Syrian Arab Republic deposited its instrument of accession 

to MARPOL Annex VI on 26 August 2008; 

.4 El Salvador deposited its instrument of accession to MARPOL 

Annexes I, II, III, IV and V on 24 September 2008; and 

.5 The United States deposited its instrument of ratification of MARPOL 

Annex VI on 8 October 2008. 

.2 With regard to annex 4 on the status of the 1990 OPRC Convention: 

.1 South Africa deposited its instrument of accession on 4 July 2008. 
MEPC 58/23 - 72 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.3 With regard to annex 5 on the status of the 2000 OPRC-HNS Protocol: 

 .1 Liberia deposited its instrument of accession on 18 September 2008; and 

 .2 Denmark deposited its instrument of ratification on 30 September 2008.

.4 With regard to annex 6 on the status of the 2001 AFS Convention: 

.1 South Africa deposited its instrument of accession on 2 July 2008; 

.2 The Republic of Korea deposited its instrument of accession 

on 24 July 2008; 

.3 Germany and Vanuatu deposited their instruments of accession 

on 20 August 2008; and 

.4 Liberia deposited its instrument of accession on 17 September 2008. 

 .5 With regard to annex 7 on the status of the 2004 BWM Convention: 

.1 Liberia deposited its instrument of accession on 17 September 2008; and 

.2 France deposited its instrument of accession on 24 September 2008.

13 HARMFUL ANTI-FOULING SYSTEMS FOR SHIPS 

Update on the Anti-Fouling Systems Convention 

13.1 The Committee, having considered the updated information provided in document 

MEPC 58/13 (Secretariat), noted that the AFS Convention had entered into force 

on 17 September 2008 and that seven more States (Germany, Liberia, the Marshall Islands, the 

Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, South Africa and Vanuatu) had ratified the Convention since 

its last session, bringing the total to 35 Parties, representing 62.69 % of the world’s gross 

tonnage. The Committee urged all those States that had not yet ratified this Convention to do so 

at the earliest opportunity. 

13.2 With a view to facilitating the implementation of the Convention, the Committee 

reiterated its invitation to Member States to provide the Organization with information regarding 

any anti-fouling systems approved, restricted, or prohibited under their domestic law in 

accordance with Article 9(1)(b) of the Convention and other information regarding the 

implementation and enforcement of the Convention. 

Draft Guidance on best management practices for removal of anti-fouling systems from ships 

13.3 The Committee recalled that it had invited Members to develop guidance on the 

environmentally sound management of wastes from the application or removal of harmful 

anti-fouling systems and that MEPC 57 noted the “Interim advice on the management of waste 

streams resulting from the removal of anti-fouling systems from ships” (MEPC 57/INF.2), 

developed by the Scientific Group under the London Convention and Protocol. 
 - 73 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

13.4 In that context, the Committee noted the updated version of the “Draft Guidance 

on best management practices for removal of anti-fouling systems from ships, including TBT hull 

paints” (MEPC 58/INF.3), further developed by the Scientific Group under the London 

Convention and Protocol, and invited the Consultative Meeting of Contracting Parties to 

the London Convention and Protocol to provide the final version of the guidance document 

to MEPC 59, taking into consideration the comments on the environmental risk posed by 

in-water cleaning, made by the observer from IUCN. 

14 PROMOTION OF IMPLEMENTATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF MARPOL 

AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS 

14.1 The Committee considered the proposal by IPTA and ICS to apply the principles of 

regulation 18.2 of the revised MARPOL Annex VI also to the current MARPOL Annex VI 

(MEPC 58/14) under item 5 of the agenda (see paragraphs 5.43.9 and 5.43.10). 

14.2 The Committee noted with appreciation the outcome of ROPME’s 6th Regional Steering 

Committee meeting on Administration and Implementation of the MARPOL Convention, which 

was held in Bahrain, from 27 to 29 January 2008, in anticipation of the effective date of the 

Special Area status in the ROPME Sea Area for MARPOL Annexes I and V on 1 August 2008. 

The results were: (1) an agreement of a 5-year Regional Action Plan for Prevention of and 

Response to Marine Pollution from Ships in the ROPME Sea Area; and (2) a Regional Strategic 

Action Plan for Implementation of the BWM Convention. Both Plans were subsequently 

adopted by the ROPME Council (MEPC 58/INF.5). 

14.3 The Committee congratulated the ROPME Sea Area countries for their achievement in 

providing adequate reception facilities for the Special Area and in adopting the Regional 

Strategic Action Plan for Implementation of the BWM Convention. 

15 TECHNICAL CO-OPERATION SUB-PROGRAMME FOR THE PROTECTION 

OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT 

15.1 The Committee recalled that, given the importance of technical co-operation in the work 

of the Organization, updates on TC activities were prepared for the attention of the Committee at 

each session, with comprehensive status reports at MEPC spring sessions in non-Assembly years. 

15.2 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/15 (Secretariat) providing an update on 

the activities of the 2008-2009 ITCP related to the protection of the marine environment and 

undertaken during the period from 1 January to 30 June 2008. The document also covers the 

activities carried out under the major projects and other related activities during the same period. 

The Committee noted that document MEPC 58/11, which reports on the outcome of the 

fifty-eighth session of the Technical Co-operation Committee, is also relevant to this agenda 

item. The Committee further noted that, as in the past, the principal achievements pertain mainly 

to the training of officials in seminars/workshops/training courses on marine environment 

protection, in particular the OPRC and MARPOL Conventions, promotion and enhancement of 

regional co-operation through the development of regional actions such as strategic action plans 

for the implementation of the MARPOL and OPRC Conventions, regional contingency plans for 

combating accidental marine pollution, environmental waste management guidelines for port 

operation, regional ballast water management strategies and action plans, etc. With regard to the 

OPRC Convention, the Committee noted the Organization’s continued fruitful co-operation with 

the petroleum and shipping industries and its pursuance of the implementation of OPRC-related 

activities under the framework of the IMO/Oil industry Global Initiative (GI), especially under 

the IMO/Industry-funded GI Project for West and Central Africa. 
MEPC 58/23 - 74 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

15.3 The Committee took note of the following: 

.1 the implementation of the technical co-operation activities by the Marine 

Environment Division for the period covering January to June 2008 including the 

work carried out under the three major projects directly managed by the Marine 

Environment Division; namely: (1) the GEF-UNDP-IMO Project-Building 

Partnerships to Assist Developing Countries to Reduce the Transfer of Harmful 

Aquatic Organisms in Ships’ Ballast Water (GloBallast Partnerships); (2) the 

project on Building Partnerships for Environmental Protection and Management 

of the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA); and (3) the GEF/IBRD/IMO Marine 

Electronic Highway Demonstration Project; the last being implemented in close 

co-operation with the Maritime Safety Division; 

.2 the Global Industry Alliance (GIA) for Marine Biosafety, within the framework of 

the GloBallast Partnerships Project, noting also the potential for this pioneering 

global partnership to accelerate innovative solutions to help address ballast water 

issues and to serve as a major facilitator and model for such private-public sector 

alliances at regional and national levels. 

15.4 The Committee noted concerns regarding IMO’s capacity to meet the growing needs of 

developing countries for technical assistance with the related challenge of ensuring an equitable 

and sustainable means of funding the ITCP. In this regard, the Committee also noted the 

pressure placed on the ITCP as new instruments were adopted and the concomitant requirements 

by Member States to implement and enforce them. 

15.5 The Committee further noted the praiseworthy contribution to the ITCP of 

the 58 partnership arrangements to date with developing and developed countries, regional and 

international organizations and expressed its appreciation of the generous offers made recently by 

some of the long standing supporters of IMO’s ITCP. 

15.6 The Committee was informed of the project being developed by IMO to build capacity in 

developing countries to address greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from ships. The project was 

being developed in anticipation of the outcome of the work of the Organization on GHGs and 

was being discussed with the European Commission, which expressed an interest to fund such a 

project. Some IMO member States were also considering lending their support to the project. 

15.7 The representative of the European Commission thanked the Secretariat for the update on 

the ITCP and informed the Committee that the Commission was considering support to the GHG 

project within the context of the Environment and Natural Resources Thematic Programme 

(ENRTP), which would be in the magnitude of several million euros. 

15.8 The delegation of Kenya thanked the Secretariat for IMO’s continuous support under 

the ITCP and, in relation to the GHG project, expressed their satisfaction for having been chosen 

as one of the potential beneficiaries under the project. The delegation would give their full 

support to the GHG project. 

15.9 The delegation of the Netherlands thanked the Secretariat for a comprehensive overview 

on activities implemented under the ITCP. The delegation informed the Committee that the 

Government of the Netherlands would contribute 31,000 euros to IMO’s ITCP to address the 

technical assistance needs arising from the adoption of the revised MARPOL Annex VI. 
 - 75 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

15.10 Several delegations expressed their appreciation for the support they had received 

from IMO. In particular, the delegation of Ghana thanked the Secretariat and the International 

Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association (IPIECA) for the assistance 

provided in organizing a three-day workshop as part of the 2008 World Maritime Day 

celebrations. The workshop aimed at sensitizing the national stakeholders on the challenges 

facing their country in the wake of the discovery of important offshore oil reserves. 

15.11 The Namibian delegation thanked the Secretariat for the assistance provided in a number 

of national projects leading to the development and finalization of the national contingency plan 

under the IMO/IPIECA Global Initiative Programme. The delegation further expressed its 

appreciation of the continuous IMO and IPIECA commitment, especially in the development of 

national sensitivity maps for oil spill response. 

15.12 The delegation of Malaysia expressed their appreciation for the untiring efforts being 

made by the Marine Environment Division aimed at achieving progress in the development and 

implementation of the Marine Electronic Highway Project. They further expressed their support 

of the IMO initiatives to further enhance the protection of the marine environment. 

15.13 The delegation of Croatia, as one of the Lead partnering countries (LPC) for the 

Mediterranean region under the GloBallast Partnerships Project, informed the Committee of the 

recent developments under the Project. The Committee took note of the establishment 

in May 2008 of the National Task Force (NTF) for Croatia as the forum for the development of 

the National Ballast Water Strategy. The NTF will work on the preparation for ratification by 

Croatia of the BWM Convention, which is intended to be ratified by next year. 

15.14 The delegation of Croatia further recalled that one of the goals of the Globallast 

Partnerships Project was to encourage and facilitate regional co-operation in relation to ballast 

water issues, a goal which was vital for semi-enclosed seas like the Adriatic Sea and the 

Mediterranean Sea to ensure a harmonized approach in the implementation of the Convention. In 

this context, the Committee was informed on the different activities undertaken within the 

framework of the Project, including the First GloBallast Regional Task Force Meeting for the 

Mediterranean Region, which was held in Dubrovnik, Croatia, in September 2008. The meeting 

was convened by the Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Response Centre for the 

Mediterranean Sea (REMPEC) in co-operation with the Regional Activity Centre for Specially 

Protected Areas (RAC / SPA) and the Croatian Ministry of Sea, Transport and Infrastructure. 

After having highlighted the achievements of the Dubrovnik meeting, the Croatian delegation 

expressed its willingness to exchange its experiences with other regions through the GloBallast 

family network. The delegation also pledged to continue to initiate, support and actively 

participate in all activities under the GloBallast Partnerships Project, aiming to reduce the 

presently high risk of spread of unwanted organisms through ships ballast water. 

15.15 The delegation of Argentina expressed their appreciation to the Secretariat on the 

activities carried out under the ITCP and made special reference to the national workshop, 

recently hosted by Argentina within the framework of the GloBallast Partnerships Project, in 

which Uruguay had also participated. The aim of the workshop was to establish the necessary 

policy, legal and institutional reforms and to build technical and institutional capacity to 

implement the BWM Convention. The Committee noted that Argentina is a Lead Partnering 

Country for the “South East Pacific and Argentina” region and that it has translated thirteen 

modules of the Ballast Water Management Introductory Course into Spanish as its contribution 

to the work of the Organization in this field. 
MEPC 58/23 - 76 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

15.16 The Chairman drew the Committee’s attention to the fact that the constituent programmes 

of the IMO Integrated Technical Co-operation Programme can only be delivered if the required 

funding is secured from IMO’s internal resources and/or external donor contributions. 

He expressed appreciation for all financial and in-kind contributions to the ITCP. In this regard, 

he recalled the on-going negotiations between IMO and the Government of Sweden for the 

conclusion of the very important partnership programme, which will be funded by the Swedish 

Government to the amount of some 7 million US dollars. He thanked the Government of 

Sweden and invited Member States and international organizations to continue, and if possible 

increase, their appreciable support for IMO’s technical co-operation activities so that successful 

delivery of the programme can be achieved. 

15.17 The Committee took note of the information provided regarding the implementation of 

the technical co-operation activities for the period from January to June 2008. 

16 ROLE OF THE HUMAN ELEMENT 

Report of the Joint MSC/MEPC Working Group on Human Element 

16.1 The Committee, recalling that the Joint MSC-MEPC Working Group on Human Element 

met during MSC 84 and its report (MSC 84/WP.6) had been considered and approved by 

MSC 84, also approved the report of the Joint Group (MEPC 58/16) and, in particular, approved: 

.1 MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.7 on Guidance on near-miss reporting; and 

.2 MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.4 on Updated action plan on the Organization’s strategy to 

address the human element. 

Other issues 

16.2 The Committee noted with appreciation the information provided by the United Kingdom 

(MECP 56/INF.11) related to Human Element Assessment Tool (HEAT). 

16.3 The Committee, having noted that the next session of the Joint MSC/MEPC Working 

Group on Human Element in 2009 would consider, inter alia, the draft amendments to the 

Revised Guidelines on Implementation of the ISM Code, invited Member Governments and 

international organizations to submit comments and proposals on the matter, so that the Revised 

Guidelines could be finalized with a view to submitting them to A 26 for adoption. 

17 FORMAL SAFETY ASSESSMENT 

17.1 The Committee recalled that MEPC 56 had noted that the one matter that needed 

consideration within the context of the Formal Safety Assessment Guidelines relevant to its work 

was the draft Environmental Risk Evaluation Criteria. MEPC 56 had also recognized the need to 

carry out an in-depth analysis of the proposed environmental risk evaluation criteria for 

the purpose of the Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) before inclusion of such criteria in the 

IMO FSA Guidelines (MSC/Circ.1023-MEPC/Circ.392, as consolidated in MSC 83/INF.2). 

MEPC 56 had therefore agreed to establish a correspondence group, under the coordination of 

Greece. 
 - 77 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

17.2 The Committee noted that progress had been made by the correspondence group in the 

intersessional period (between MEPC 56 and MEPC 57), but at MEPC 57 divergent views still 

remained on some key issues which required further analysis and discussions between members 

of the correspondence group, in particular: 

 .1 on establishing an appropriate Severity Index (SI) in the Hazid step; 

.2 whether “costs of averting a spill (CATS)” or an alternative criterion would offer 

the needed decision-making quality; and 

 .3 the acceptable boundaries of the ALARP region, slope of F-N diagram and what is 

 the variable of horizontal axis. 

17.3 The Committee noted that MEPC 57 had subsequently agreed to continue with the work 

of the correspondence group, under the coordination of Greece. In this connection, the 

Committee noted that MSC 84 recognizing that, at MSC 85, there would be an outcome of 

MEPC 58 regarding environmental risk acceptance criteria and submissions related to the review 

of FSA studies, agreed to retain the item in the provisional agenda for MSC 85, and encouraged 

Member Governments and international organizations to submit, to MSC 85, proposals and 

comments on matters related to the review of the FSA studies and arrangements for the 

FSA Experts Group. 

17.4 The Committee had before it documents MEPC 58/17 (Greece), which contained the 

work carried out in the intersessional period by the correspondence group, MEPC 58/17/1 

(Japan), which provided information on the relation between cost of oil spills and weight of oil 

spilled based on an analysis of data from the IOPC Funds data, and MEPC 58/17/2 and 

MEPC 58/INF.2 (both by Denmark), which provided information on the FSA study on crude oil 

tankers carried out within the research project SAFEDOR. 

17.5 Following an intervention by the delegation of Denmark, the Committee agreed to invite 

the MSC to consider documents MEPC 58/17/2 and MEPC 58/INF.2 at MSC 86 when the FSA 

Expert Group is expected to meet in the context of the guidance on the use of human element 

analysing process (HEAP) and formal safety assessment (FSA) in the rule-making process of 

IMO (MSC/Circ.1022-MEPC/Circ.391). In this context, the Committee noted that the purpose of 

circulating the study at this meeting was to give experts from Member States and other interested 

parties as much time as possible to provide feedback on the study in preparation for MSC 86. 

17.6 In light of the technical nature of the subject, the Committee considered, in the first 

instance, the establishment of a working group to progress the work but noting that no working 

group on the subject was envisaged by MEPC 57 as well as the concern expressed by some 

delegations of the lack of the necessary expertise present within their delegations to participate in 

such a working group, it was agreed to establish an informal consultation group under the 

chairmanship of Professor Harilaos Psaraftis (Greece) to enable those members of the 

Correspondence Group who were present at MEPC to have an initial exchange of views and for 

the group to verbally report to the Committee later in the week. 

17.7 The group met from 7 to 8 October 2008, and was attended by delegations from Canada, 

China, Finland, Greece, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Turkey, and United States, and 

by observers from BIMCO, OCIMF and INTERTANKO. 
MEPC 58/23 - 78 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

17.8 In his verbal report, the Chairman of the group noted that the objective was to work on all 

pending issues outlined in paragraph 17.2 above, and to propose a way forward. The group did 

not consider submissions MEPC 58/17/2 and MEPC 58/INF.2 on the FSA study for crude oil 

carriers however noted that the one part of this FSA study that is relevant for the work on 

Environmental Risk Evaluation Criteria within the context of FSA guidelines is the threshold 

of USD 60,000/tonne used as the CATS criterion in the study. 

17.9 The group’s Chairman informed the Committee that the group had recognized that, 

though divergence of opinions existed among group members on some key issues, there were 

probably also areas where agreement could be reached. The group had agreed that non-linearity 

between cleanup costs and oil spill volume had been documented in various studies. The group 

had also agreed that, in spite of various documented shortcomings, in Steps 3 and 4 of the FSA 

one could use an “oil spill cost per unit volume” criterion to assess the cost-effectiveness of risk 

control options (RCOs). In fact, in spite of the extensive discussion and debate on this subject 

since MEPC 56, the group had agreed that no better and practical alternative was identified. 

17.10 There was still a divergence of views among members of the group regarding what the 

threshold for such a criterion might be. The CATS approach uses the above type of criterion, and 

has a value of USD 60,000/tonne as threshold. On the other hand, the group had noted that the 

Japanese approach outlined in document MEPC 58/17/1 which is based on IOPCF data, did not 

use this type of criterion, but developed a non-linear function between spill cost and spill volume. 

17.11 Following a query as to what the equivalent value of “oil spill cost per unit volume” was 

implied by the approach outlined by Japan, the group had been informed that the value was 

USD 4,000/tonne if one considered the ratio of total spill cost divided by total spill volume, and 

slightly lower than USD 2,000/tonne if an equivalent average cost was considered. The group 

had also discussed what types of costs were included in spill cost figures in the analysis carried 

out by Japan, and whether one should multiply cleanup costs by appropriate coefficients to 

account for environmental costs and (possibly) society’s willingness to pay to prevent spills 

instead of incurring their cost. 

17.12 After some discussion, the group had noted that it would be impossible to conclude 

during the session what the appropriate value of the “oil spill cost per unit volume” threshold 

might be, although a clear majority expressed the opinion that the threshold should be much less 

than USD 60,000/tonne. Some members of the group suggested that two values might be 

warranted, one for small spills and the other for large spills, but the difficulties associated with 

such an approach was pointed out, particularly for small spills, for which inadequate data exist. 

17.13 The group’s Chairman informed the Committee that the Group had agreed that further 

investigation of this matter was necessary, and that it had discussed ways to finalize this by 

MEPC 59. The re-establishment of a Correspondence Group was proposed as a way forward. 

17.14 On the issue of combining environmental criteria with safety criteria, the group had 

concurred with the approach proposed in section 4 of the annex to document MEPC 58/17, which 

would be simplified further if a volume-based approach was followed. The group had noted, 

however, that it was important to show both environmental and safety criteria in the cost-benefit 

analysis (CBA), so that a complete picture could be formed. 

17.15 On the issue of the proper Risk Matrix or Index (step 1 of the FSA), the group had 

proposed to use oil spill volume as the severity variable; with the matrix to be finalized once the 

issue of the CATS threshold is agreed. Similarly, the group had agreed to defer the issue of 

ALARP region and F-N diagram until after the issue of the CATS threshold is resolved. 
 - 79 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

17.16 The group had also recognized the importance of the data to be able to test and apply any 

agreed methodology. Most group members had expressed the view that casualty databases used 

for FSA studies should be made public and contain information properly organized so as to 

reveal the real causes of the accidents. Some members had expressed the view that IMO should 

take the lead in such an activity. The group had finally noted that the information provided in the 

GISIS, in particular, the module on reported casualty incidents might contribute to this end, even 

though GISIS may still be insufficient due to the lack of reporting by Member States. 

17.17 The delegation of the Netherlands reiterated the view it expressed at MEPC 57 and 

underlined that it was preferable to gain experience first with the methodology developed so far 

before going into further detail. 

17.18 Having received the verbal report of the Group, the Committee agreed to:

 

 .1 retain this agenda item for MEPC 59; 

.2 re-establish a Correspondence Group under the co-ordination of Greece∗, with a 

view to finalizing the subject of environmental risk evaluation criteria with the 

following terms of reference: 

.1 recommend an appropriate criterion for assessing environmental 

consequences in Step 4 of the FSA, including an appropriate threshold 

value for ascertaining if a specific Risk Control Option (RCO) is 

cost-effective; 

.2 recommend a way of combining environmental and safety criteria for 

those RCOs that effect both environmental and fatality risk; 

 .3 recommend an appropriate risk matrix or index for environmental criteria; 

 .4 recommend an appropriate ALARP region and F-N diagram, including an 

 appropriate value for the slope of the F-N curve; 

 .5 address the issue of collection and reporting of relevant data; 

 .6 recommend any further relevant action; and 

 .7 submit a written report to MEPC 59. 

 

∗

 Coordinator: 

Professor Harilaos N. Psaraftis 

Laboratory for Maritime Transport, Division of Ship Design and Maritime Transport 

School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, National Technical University of Athens 

Iroon Polytechneiou 9, Zografou 15773 Greece 

E-mail: hnpsare@mail.ntua.gr
MEPC 58/23 - 80 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

17.19 With regard to the proposal to establish a Working Group on this subject at MEPC 59, the 

Committee considered the proposal under agenda item 19 – Work programme of the Committee 

and subsidiary bodies. 

17.20 In light of the work to be carried out, the Committee invited MSC to retain the item in the 

provisional agenda for MSC 87. 

18 DEVELOPMENT OF A GUIDANCE DOCUMENT FOR MINIMIZING THE 

RISK OF SHIP STRIKES WITH CETACEANS 

18.1 The Committee recalled that the International Whaling Commission (IWC) had 

established a “Ship Strikes Working Group” in 2005 under its Conservation Committee on the 

initiative of Belgium to conduct the work and that the outcome of the Working Group was 

brought to the attention of the Committee so as to: 

.1 identify large-area and small-area hot spots of dense shipping globally; 

.2 offer guidance for improved reporting and data management and processing from 

IWC member nations as well as others; 

.3 evaluate the potential for whale-related data into Automatic Identification System 

(AIS) data that appear on vessel radar screens; 

.4 advise on the setting up of a centralized international database on ship strikes 

using a template with standardized parameters; 

.5 as appropriate, advise on ship-related national and regional legislation, rules and 

action plans to reduce the impact of ship strikes, with priority for high-risk areas; 

and 

.6 continue to review the work of the Ship Strikes Working Group, widen its 

membership and circulate the progress report widely. 

18.2 The Committee further recalled that the matter was first raised at MEPC 55 

(9 to 13 October 2006) and that MEPC 55 had agreed that IMO was the competent body to 

address ship strikes with cetaceans globally and had invited delegations to submit proposals to 

the Committee for consideration. 

18.3 The Committee noted that MEPC 57, on the basis of document MEPC 57/18/2 (Australia, 

Belgium, Italy, IUCN, IFAW and the UNEP/CMS/ASCOBANS Joint Secretariat), had agreed to 

the inclusion of a new high-priority item on “Development of a guidance document for 

minimizing the risk of ship strikes with cetaceans” in the agenda of MEPC 58 (October 2008) 

with a target completion date of 2010 (three sessions). 

18.4 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/18 (United States) which highlighted the 

need to develop the draft guidance document for minimizing the risk of ship strikes with 

cetaceans and provided such a draft guidance document in the annex to the document. 

18.5 The Committee then considered document MEPC 58/18/1 (Australia and Belgium) and 

MEPC 58/INF.15 (Spain). Document MEPC 58/18/1 addressed the concerns expressed by some 
 - 81 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

delegations on the inadequacy of information and statistics on incidents and ships strikes with 

cetaceans and its impacts, and provided a summary of the data collected by the IWC Vessel 

Strike Data Standardization Group. Document MEPC 58/INF.15 (Spain) provided information 

on the work being undertaken in Spain to improve safety of navigation and enhance the 

conservation of cetaceans. 

18.6 Several delegations and non-governmental organizations expressed support for the 

development of a guidance document for minimizing the risk of ship strikes with cetaceans. 

18.7 The Committee, recognizing that further work was needed to fully develop the draft 

guidance document, agreed to invite delegations to provide comments on the draft guidance 

document, as submitted by the United States in document MEPC 58/18, with a view to approval 

at its next session for circulation as an MEPC circular. 

19 WORK PROGRAMME OF THE COMMITTEE AND SUBSIDIARY BODIES 

Proposal for a new item on noise from commercial shipping and its adverse impacts on 

marine life 

19.1 The Committee noted a proposal by the United States (MEPC 58/19) on the development 

of non-mandatory technical guidelines to minimize the introduction of incidental noise from 

commercial shipping operations into the marine environment to reduce potential adverse impacts 

on marine life and its inclusion as a new work programme of the Committee with target 

completion date of three or four sessions, starting from MEPC 59 (July 2009). 

19.2 The Committee also noted a submission by Australia (MEPC 58/INF.19), which provided 

additional information on ship traffic noise in the southern hemisphere (Australia and the 

Southern Ocean) consisting of machinery noise (main engines, gearing) and hydrographic noise 

(flow, propeller singing/cavitation) that overlap with sounds (between 10 Hz and 1 KHz) 

produced by certain mammals such as seals, sea lions and whales as well as some fish with 

potential to disturb behaviour and interfere with critical life functions of marine life. 

19.3 In accordance with paragraph 2.20 of the Committees’ Guidelines (MSC-MEPC.1/Circ.2), 

the Chairman made a preliminary assessment on the proposed new work programme by the United 

States. The Chairman’s assessment showed that the criteria for general acceptance provided in 

paragraph 2.10 of the Committees’ Guidelines had been met. 

19.4 During deliberation, some delegations suggested that this new work programme item 

should be considered as a low priority item in the work programme of the Committee. 

The Chairman informed the Committee that prioritization of work programme items would only 

be made when it is forwarded to the sub-committees for consideration. 

19.5 The Committee, having considered the proposal by the United States, approved the 

inclusion of a new item in the agenda of MEPC 59 (July 2009) on “Noise from commercial 

shipping and its adverse impacts on marine life” with a target completion date of three or 

four sessions and invited Member Governments to submit appropriate documents to MEPC 59 

for consideration. 
MEPC 58/23 - 82 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

19.6 The Committee also approved the establishment of an intersessional correspondence 

group, as proposed in paragraph 7 of document MEPC 58/19, co-ordinated by United States3

with the following terms of reference: 

“.1 identify and address ways to minimize the introduction of incidental noise into the 

marine environment from commercial shipping to reduce the potential adverse 

impact on marine life, in particular develop voluntary technical guidelines for 

ship-quieting technologies as well as potential navigation and operational 

practices; and 

.2 provide a written report to MEPC 59.” 

Work programme and provisional agenda of the BLG Sub-Committee 

19.7 The Committee recalled that MSC 84 (7 to 16 May 2008) noted that MEPC 57 had agreed 

to include, in the work programme of the BLG Sub-committee and the provisional agenda for 

BLG 13, high-priority items on “Review of relevant non-mandatory instruments as a 

consequence of the amended MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code” and on 

“Amendments to MARPOL Annex I on the use and carriage of heavy grade oil on ships in the 

Antarctic area”, both with a target completion date of 2010 (MSC 84/24, paragraph 22.5). 

19.8 The Committee noted that MSC 84 had revised and approved the work programme of the 

BLG Sub-Committee and the provisional agenda for BLG 13 and requested the Secretariat to 

inform the MEPC accordingly (MSC 84/24, paragraphs 22.7 and 22.8). 

19.9 The Committee considered document MEPC 58/19/1 (Secretariat) and approved the work 

programme of the BLG Sub-Committee and provisional agenda for BLG 13, requesting the 

Secretariat to inform the MSC accordingly. The work programme of the BLG Sub-Committee 

and provisional agenda for BLG 13 are set out in annex 29. 

Work programme and provisional agenda of the FSI Sub-Committee 

19.10 The Committee noted that MSC 84 had revised and approved the work programme of the 

FSI Sub-Committee and provisional agenda for FSI 16 (MSC 84/24, paragraphs 22.31 and 22.32). 

19.11 The Committee also noted that MSC 84 had agreed: 

.1 to instruct the FSI Sub-Committee to develop appropriate amendments to the 

Survey Guidelines under the HSSC (resolution A.997(25)) to explain the 

possibility of alternative arrangement where on bottom inspection in dry dock 

may be substituted by a bottom inspection with the ship in water (MSC 84/24, 

paragraph 22.26); and 

 

3 Co-ordinator: 

 Ms Lindy S. Johnson 

Attorney Adviser 

Office of General Counsel, NOAA 

14th Street & Constitution Avenue 

Washington DC, U.S.A. 20230 

Phone: 1-202-482-5887 

Fax: 1-202-371-0926 

E-mail: Linda.s.johnson@noaa.gov
 - 83 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.2 to include, in the work programme of the FSI Sub-Committee, a high priority item 

on “Development of a Code for Recognized Organizations”, with two sessions to 

complete the item, and instructed the FSI Sub-Committee to include the item in 

the provisional agenda for FSI 17 (MSC 84/24, paragraph 22.27). 

19.12 The Committee noted that, after MSC 84, FSI 16 (2 to 6 June 2008) had considered its 

work programme and proposed to include the item on “Development of a code of conduct for 

assurance of the safety of crew and maritime navigation during demonstration/campaigns against 

ships on the high seas” but deferred the inclusion of the item on its provisional agenda since the 

matter would be considered by NAV 54 and the outcome would be reported to FSI 17 

(FSI 16/WP.7, paragraph 15.2). 

19.13 The Committee, having considered document MEPC 58/19/1 (Secretariat), approved the 

work programme of the FSI Sub-Committee and provisional agenda for FSI 17, as approved by 

MSC 84, including amendments proposed by FSI 16 and requested the Secretariat to inform 

MSC accordingly. The work programme of the FSI Sub-Committee and provisional agenda for 

FSI 16 are set out in annex 30. 

Work programme of the DSC, NAV and DE Sub-Committees, which relate to 

environmental issues 

19.14 The Committee noted that MSC 84 had revised and approved the work programme of the 

DSC, NAV and DE Sub-Committees (MSC 84/24, section 22 and MSC 84/24/Add.2, annex 21). 

19.15 The Committee further noted that NAV 54 (30 June to 4 July 2008) had revised its work 

programme for consideration by MSC 85 and by MEPC 58 for items which relate to 

environmental issues (NAV 54/25, annex 16). 

19.16 The Committee, having considered document MEPC 58/19/2 (Secretariat), approved the 

work programmes of the DSC, NAV and DE Sub-Committees as revised by MSC 84 and as 

proposed by NAV 54, which relate to environmental issues and requested the Secretariat to 

inform MSC accordingly. The work programmes of the DSC, NAV and DE-Sub-Committees, 

which relate to environmental issues, are set out in annex 31. 

Activities, priorities and plan of meeting weeks of the Committees and their subsidiary 

bodies for the biennium 2010 – 2011 

19.17 The Committee recalled that paragraph 2.5 of the Guidelines on the organization and 

method of work of the MSC and MEPC and their subsidiary bodies (MSC-MEPC.1/Circ.2) 

requires that, at the end of every second year, the Committee Chairmen should submit to their 

respective Committees a joint plan covering the activities, priorities and meeting requirements of 

their subsidiary bodies over the following two years. 

19.18 The Committee noted that, in preparing the activities and priorities of the Committees, the 

Chairmen had noted that the Assembly, at its twenty-fifth session, had approved 

resolution A.990(25) on the High-level Action Plan of the Organization and priorities for 

the 2008-2009 biennium, which identified the high-level actions, including priorities for specific 

items for the respective Committees, necessary to achieve the strategic objectives in the Strategic 

Plan for the Organization for the six-year period 2008-2013 (resolution A.989(25)). 
MEPC 58/23 - 84 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

19.19 The Committee further noted that the provisions of resolution A.900(21), which sets the 

objectives of the Organization in the 2000s and provides specific directions as to the areas on 

which the Committees should focus their attention during the current decade; as well as the 

provisions of resolution A.901(21) on IMO and technical co-operation in the 2000s. 

19.20 The Committee recalled that MEPC 57 and MSC 84 had approved the work programmes 

of the sub-committees for the immediate future. The sub-committees’ proposed revised work 

programmes, including priorities for each work programme item and target completion dates or 

number of sessions needed to complete the items are shown in the annex to document 

MSC 85/23 and MSC 85/23/Add.1. 

19.21 The Committee, taking into account the technical workload of the Organization, the 

priorities assigned by the Assembly in resolution A.990(25) to subjects for consideration by the 

MSC and the MEPC and the advice provided by the Chairmen of the sub-committees, approved, 

subject to the concurrent decision by MSC 85, the following plan of meeting weeks for the MSC 

and the MEPC and their subsidiary bodies for the biennium 2010-2011 for inclusion in the 

Secretary-General’s relevant budget proposals: 

Year MSC MEPC BLG DSC FP FSI COMSAR NAV DE SLF STW Total 

2010 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 15 

2011 1.5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 11.5 

Grand total (weeks) 26.5 

19.22 The Committee, in approving the above meeting plan, noted, in particular, that the 

two sessions planned for the DE Sub-Committee in 2010 will be decided by MSC 85 

(26 November to 5 December 2008). 

Items to be included in the Committee’s agenda for its forthcoming three sessions 

19.23 The Committee approved, as amended, the items to be included in the agendas for 

MEPC 59, MEPC 60 and MEPC 61 (MEPC 58/WP.2), which are set out in annex 32. 

Dates for MEPC 59, MEPC 60 and MEPC 61 

19.24 The Committee noted that MEPC 59 would be held from 13 to 17 July 2009 and that 

MEPC 60 is tentatively scheduled to be held in March 2010 and MEPC 61 in October 2010. 

Working/review/drafting groups at MEPC 59 

19.25 The Committee agreed, in principle, to establish the following working/review/drafting 

groups at MEPC 59: 

.1 Working Group on GHG Issues; 

.2 Working Group on Guidelines for Ship Recycling; 

.3 Review Group on Ballast Water Technologies; 
 - 85 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.4 Drafting Group on Amendments to Mandatory Instruments; and 

.5 Joint MSC/MEPC Working Group on Human Element. 

Correspondence Groups 

19.26 The Committee agreed to establish the following intersessional correspondence groups, 

which should report to MEPC 59: 

.1 Correspondence Group on GHG issues; 

.2 Correspondence Group on Energy Efficiency Operational Index; 

.3 Correspondence Group on Review of MARPOL Annex V; 

.4 Correspondence Group on Environmental Risk Evaluation Criteria; 

.5 Correspondence Group on Guidelines for Ship Recycling; and 

.6 Correspondence Group on Noise from Commercial Shipping. 

Intersessional meetings 

19.27 The Committee approved the holding of the following intersessional meetings: 

.1 Working Group on GHG Issues to be held in March 2009, which should report to 

MEPC 59; 

.2 ESPH Working Group to be held in 2009; and 

.3 OPRC/HNS Technical Group to be held in the week before MEPC 59 in 

July 2009, which should report to MEPC 59. 

20 APPLICATION OF THE COMMITTEES’ GUIDELINES 

20.1 The Committee noted that the Chairmen of MSC, MEPC, LEG and sub-committees had 

met on 10 May 2008 during MSC 84 to consider how to maximize the efficiency and 

effectiveness of the Committees and sub-committees, bearing in mind the Strategic Plan for the 

Organization (for the six-year period 2008-2013) and High-level Action Plan and priorities for 

the 2008-2009 biennium. 

Report of the 2008 Chairmen’s meeting and relevant decisions of MSC 84 

20.2 The Committee considered the report of the 2008 Chairmen’s meeting (MEPC 58/20) in 

conjunction with the outcome of MSC 84 on the aforementioned report (MEPC 58/20/1) and 

noted all the actions requested of the Committee taking into account that MSC 84 had agreed to 

endorse all the actions requested in the report of the 2008 Chairmen’s meeting. 
MEPC 58/23 - 86 - 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Amendments to the Committees’ Guidelines 

20.3 The Committee noted that the revised Committees’ Guidelines with all the amendments 

as approved by MEPC 57 and MSC 84 and their previous sessions had been circulated by means 

of MSC-MEPC.1/Circ.2. 

Guidelines on the application of the Strategic Plan and the High-level Action Plan 

20.4 The Committee noted that C/ES.24 had established a correspondence group to develop 

guidelines on the application of the Strategic Plan and the High-level Action Plan, which would 

be reviewed by the ad hoc Council Working Group on the Organization’s Strategic Plan 

(CWGSP), for approval by the Council at its 101st session in November 2008. The Committee’s 

Guidelines on the organization and method of work may need to be revised in light of the 

aforementioned guidelines to be developed by the Council. 

Number of meeting groups 

20.5 The Committee noted the issues related to the Strategic Plan for the Organization and 

High-level Action Plan on the reduction of meeting weeks and number of meeting groups had 

been addressed by the 2007 Chairmen’s meeting (MSC 84/24, paragraph 21.6) and further noted 

that the 2008 Chairmen’s meeting had reiterated its recommendations of its last meeting, which 

MSC 83 and MEPC 57 had agreed, that: 

.1 intersessional working groups and technical groups should not be held at the same 

time as the Committee or sub-committee meetings; and 

.2 splinter groups of a working group, if established, should meet outside of normal 

working hours. 

Table of planned output 

20.6 With regard to the recommendations of the 2008 Chairmen’s meeting on the table of 

planned output in resolution A.990(25), which is envisaged as a practical management and 

monitoring tool for the work of the Committees and sub-committees, the Committee agreed with 

MSC 84 (MSC 84/24, paragraphs 22.81 and 22.82) that: 

.1 the table of planned output prepared for resolution A.990(25) contained some 

parts which do not precisely provide the actual work programmes of the 

sub-committees and needed to be reviewed by all sub-committee Chairmen 

together with respective Secretaries to recover any missing work programme 

items of the sub-committees and improve the accuracy of the table; 

.2 the table of planned output should also be reviewed by the Committees during the 

biennium in question and should be revised to include any urgent new work 

programme items and that such updating should be reported to the Council for 

endorsement; and 

.3 the table of planned output should also provide entries on the status of work of the 

sub-committees on the long-term work programme item which would not yield 

the final output in the biennium in question. 
 - 87 - MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Cross-referencing of work to the strategic directions, high-level actions and planned 

outputs 

20.7 Regarding the referencing in the summary table of all IMO documents to Strategic and 

High-level Action Plans, the Committee noted that the following actions have been taken to date: 

.1 all documents submitted to IMO meetings now contain, in the summary box, 

reference links to the strategic directions, high-level actions and planned outputs 

for the biennium; 

.2 that the work programmes of the sub-committees now link each work programme 

item to the strategic directions, high-level actions and planned outputs for the 

biennium; and 

.3 that the document on Preliminary assessment of proposals for new work 

programme items includes an assessment of whether new proposals are within the 

scope of the Organization’s Strategic and High-level Action Plans, including 

related cross-referencing. 

21 ELECTION OF THE CHAIRMAN AND VICE-CHAIRMAN FOR 2009 

21.1 In accordance with rule 17 of the Rules of Procedure, the Committee unanimously 

re-elected Mr. Andreas Chrysostomou (Cyprus) as Chairman, and Mr. Ajoy Chatterjee (India) as 

Vice-Chairman, both for 2009. 

22 ANY OTHER BUSINESS 

The impact of small craft on the marine environment 

22.1 The Committee noted that document MEPC 58/22 (Barbados, Croatia and FOEI) 

concerning the impact of small craft on the marine environment had been withdrawn. 

Use of seawater lubricated tube bearings to eliminate stern tube oil pollution from ships 

22.2 The Committee noted with appreciation the information contained in document 

MEPC 58/INF.22 (Canada) on the use of seawater lubricated tube bearings to eliminate stern 

tube oil pollution from ships. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 1 

STATEMENTS BY THE DELEGATIONS OF INDIA AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

CONCERNING TWO INDIAN SEAFARERS 

Statement by the delegation of India 

Our intervention is related to the continuing unjust and unreasonable detention of the two 

Indian nationals Capt Jasprit Chawla and Chief officer Syam Chetan of “Hebei Spirit” who were 

acquitted by a Court of the Republic of Korea as being innocent of all charges of violating the 

nation’s Ocean Pollution Law. Following an oil spill incident of 7 December 2007 when a 

floating crane collided with the anchored “Hebei Spirit”. 

The continued Detention highlights the injustices that were often perpetrated on 

shipmasters, who really bore little responsibility for an accident, other than they were in charge 

of a ship that was involved. 

Yet again we see with regret and anguish that seafarers are being victimized due to a 

malicious tangled web of extra-judicial or/and extra-legal interpretation of the local law. 

When even some of the worst civil or criminal offenders worldwide can be released on 

bail and allowed to live in their place of normal residence, pending trial or re-trial, why not the 

two seafarers, whose only fault was to be on an anchored VLCC which fell in the path of a 

runaway crane barge? 

We fully accept the need for a thorough investigation of accidents and for those 

responsible for wrongful conduct, to face the consequences. 

We wish to convey our surprise, disappointment and great concern that the Courts of the 

Republic of Korea have determined to continue to detain the ship’s officers, despite their 

acquittal, for possibly as long as a year pending further hearings. Such measures appear to be 

unjustified, unreasonable and in contravention of the Men’s rights. 

We remind those responsible for the continued detention of the seafarers that the trial 

determined that another vessel, which had been towing the floating crane that struck the anchored 

tanker, was wholly responsible for the incident. Despite this finding the seafarers have continued 

to be detained, notwithstanding their own and their employer’s assurance that should a further 

trial take place, they would attend it. 

The two officers have been detained in the Republic of Korea since 7 December 2007 and 

we believe from recent experience in similar cases that such continued unjust detention may well 

affect the physical and mental health of the two men. This could be avoided by permitting them 

to return home now to their families until such time as they are needed to assist any further 

investigation in the Republic of Korea. 

As an industry serving international society, we remain committed to protecting the 

environment and to the prompt and thorough investigation of accidents at sea. We are committed 

to bringing to justice those involved in intentional actions that may damage the marine 

environment. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 1 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

 However, we cannot and will not support the criminalization of seafarers, nor unjust, 

unreasonable and unfair treatment that is contrary to the principles of IMO and ILO, including 

the Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers in the event of a marine accident. 

We are afraid that the industry’s recruitment crisis will worsen unless its members unite 

to protect seafarers from unreasonable legal attacks. What is more, if the industry does not 

protect crew members, it will become even more difficult to convince young men to go to sea. 

We all live off the sea and seafaring, one way or the other. Let us hold our heads high and 

also hold our seafaring colleagues’ freedom and respect even higher. 

We appeal to our Korean colleagues here to use their influence in helping Capt. Jasprit 

Chawla and Chief Officer Syam Chetan return home as soon as possible. Let there be two 

families out there in India who can say with happiness and pride “At sea, a sailor never leaves the 

other in distress; our seafaring family members/sons were rescued by the industry colleagues on 

land too.” 

Response statement by the delegation of the Republic of Korea 

This delegation would like to thank the distinguished delegate from India for raising the 

matter regarding the two Indian seafarers who have been staying in Korea. The Korean 

Government has lots of sympathy with the case and the welfare of seafarers as a whole and hope 

they return to India as soon as possible since the Republic of Korea is also one of those countries 

who sends a large number of seafarers to places outside Korea for working on board ships. 

At present, they are staying in a hotel in Korea and are free to move and meet people as 

they like. They are neither in custody nor in prison. 

The matter is a legal matter which involves serious and sensitive issues with respect to the 

“Hebei Spirit” incident which had caused a catastrophic pollution to the western coastline of 

Korea. At present, the case is being dealt with by a high court, i.e. an appeal court. According to 

Korea's legal system, substantial hearing and investigation into an important case is taken up to a 

high court, whose decision may change the decision of a district court, i.e. the first court. 

According to information from the Korean Government, the legal process by the high 

court is expected to be completed by the end of November. Also, there is still consultation 

between relevant governmental bodies including the Justice Ministry for expediting the process. 

I will report the position of the distinguished Indian delegate to the Korean Government 

for its good reference with an aim to facilitating the process for seafarers to return to India as 

soon as possible. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 2 

STATEMENT BY ICS ON BEHALF OF THE INDUSTRY

CONCERNING PIRACY IN THE GULF OF ADEN 

This statement is made on behalf of BIMCO, INTERCARGO, International Association 

of P & I Associations, InterManager, INTERTANKO, IPTA, ITF, IUMI, OCIMF, SIGTTO 

and ICS. 

As organizations we are looking forward to a week of debate on the environmental 

performance of shipping and not least on the challenge of reducing carbon emissions from 

international shipping. But the dreadful problem of piracy in the Gulf of Aden is also at the 

forefront of our mind. 

Such is the state of lawlessness in the Gulf of Aden that attacks on innocent merchant 

ships are taking place every single day. Ships and their crews are being captured and held to 

ransom by organized armed criminal gangs seemingly able to operate with impunity. 

In June of this year, the United Nations Security Council adopted resolution 1816 that 

allowed States cooperating with the Transitional Federal Government to enter the territorial 

waters of Somalia and use all the necessary means to repress acts of piracy and armed robbery in 

a manner consistent with action permitted on the High Seas. The Secretary-General has 

recognized the massive scale of this issue and we are grateful for his personal intervention which 

led directly to the adoption of this resolution. It is a fundamental principle of UNCLOS that the 

High Seas shall be used for peaceful purposes and furthermore that all States shall co-operate to 

the fullest extent possible in the repression of piracy on the High Seas. These are the principles 

that also now apply in Somalian waters. 

So far, in a response to resolution 1816, some states have deployed a limited number of 

warships to the region. 

This is an enormous area of water through which passes a significant portion of the 

world's trade and an even more significant percentage of its oil supply - more than 10% of the 

world's traded oil. At any one moment around 300 ships are passing through the area serving the 

needs of the nations and peoples of the world; their right to the freedom of the High Seas for 

lawful purposes is under intolerable threat from organized criminals. The stress on the captured 

crews and on other seafarers who listen to their frantic, often unanswered, radio calls for 

assistance can scarcely be imagined. 

The fact that successful attacks are being carried out with ruthless determination, virtually 

every single day and that a dozen ships and more than 250 seafarers are being held captive, 

today, demonstrates without a shadow of doubt that insufficient resources are being applied to 

this shocking problem. We could not imagine that such complacency would apply if civil aircraft 

were the target of unlawful attacks. 

Calls for the industry to arm itself for protection are inappropriate, and only serve to 

deepen the sense of lawlessness and the abandonment of international legal principles in these 

waters. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 2 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

We fully recognize that this is not a matter for discussion at this Committee meeting, but 

we urge all governments to take the necessary steps to eradicate this very serious problem to 

international shipping. Specifically these steps include: 

• a commitment to increased numbers of deployed warships in the Gulf of Aden and to 

their coordinated action; 

• the renewal of UN Security Council resolution 1816 for a longer timeframe and to 

strengthen the text on actions required to repress piracy; and 

• an agreement to establish a legal jurisdiction to identify and punish criminals under 

due process. 

There must be a determined effort to eradicate this problem once and for all. This is a 

problem that only governments acting within existing international law can solve and it is our 

plea that they take immediate steps to do so. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 3 

RESOLUTION MEPC.173(58) 

Adopted on 10 October 2008 

GUIDELINES FOR BALLAST WATER SAMPLING (G2) 

THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE, 

RECALLING Article 38(a) of the Convention on the International Maritime Organization 

concerning the functions of the Marine Environment Protection Committee conferred upon it by 

the international conventions for the prevention and control of marine pollution, 

RECALLING ALSO that the International Conference on Ballast Water Management 

for Ships held in February 2004 adopted the International Convention for the Control and 

Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (the Ballast Water Management 

Convention) together with four Conference resolutions, 

NOTING that regulation A-2 of the Ballast Water Management Convention requires that 

discharge of ballast water shall only be conducted through ballast water management in 

accordance with the provisions of the Annex to the Convention, 

NOTING FURTHER that article 9 of the Ballast Water Management Convention 

provides that a ship to which the Convention applies may, in any port or offshore terminal of 

another Party, be subject to inspection by officers duly authorized by that Party for the purpose of 

determining whether the ship is in compliance with this Convention. Such an inspection is 

limited to, inter alia, a sampling of the ship’s ballast water, carried out in accordance with the 

guidelines to be developed by the Organization, 

NOTING ALSO that the International Conference on Ballast Water Management 

for Ships, in its resolution 1, invited the Organization to develop Guidelines for uniform 

application of the Convention as a matter of urgency, 

HAVING CONSIDERED, at its fifty-eighth session, the draft Guidelines for ballast water 

sampling (G2) developed by the Ballast Water Review Group, 

1. ADOPTS the Guidelines for ballast water sampling (G2) as set out in the Annex to this 

resolution; 

2. INVITES Governments to apply the Guidelines as soon as possible, or when the 

Convention becomes applicable to them; and 

3. AGREES to keep the Guidelines under review. 

 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 

DRAFT GUIDELINES FOR BALLAST WATER SAMPLING (G2) 

1 INTRODUCTION 

1.1 The objectives of these Guidelines are to provide Parties, including port State control 

officers, with practical and technical guidance on ballast water sampling and analysis for the 

purpose of determining whether the ship is in compliance with the Ballast Water Management 

Convention (the Convention) according to article 9 “Inspection of Ships”. These Guidelines only 

address general technical sampling procedures, and do not address legal requirements. 

1.2 These Guidelines provide general recommendations for ballast water sampling by 

port State control authorities. Guidance on sampling procedures for use by Parties in assessing 

compliance with regulations D-1 or D-2 is given in the annex to these Guidelines. 

1.3 Sampling by port State control or other authorized officers, should seek to use methods 

that are (a) safe to the ship, inspectors, crew and operators; and (b) simple, feasible, rapid and 

applicable at the point of ballast discharge. 

1.4 The time needed for analysis of samples shall not be used as a basis for unduly delaying 

the operation, departure, or movement of the vessel. Article 12 of the Convention applies. 

Additionally, the use of validated automated systems for ballast water sampling and analysis 

should be explored when the developments of such systems are sufficiently progressed. 

2 BACKGROUND 

2.1 Sampling requirements for compliance control of regulations D-1 and D-2 of the 

Convention will differ as these two regulations have significantly different parameters. 

Sections 2.2 and 2.3 below reproduce the text contained in the Convention. 

2.2 Ballast water exchange standard (D-1) 

2.2.1 Ships performing ballast water exchange in accordance with regulation D-1 of the 

Convention shall do so with an efficiency of at least 95 per cent volumetric exchange of ballast 

water. 

2.2.2 For ships exchanging ballast water by the pumping-through method, pumping through 

three times the volume of each ballast water tank shall be considered to meet the standard. 

Pumping through less than three times the volume may be accepted provided the ship can 

demonstrate that at least 95 per cent volumetric exchange is met. 

2.3 Ballast water performance standard (D-2) 

2.3.1 Regulation D-2 of the Convention refers to two size categories of organisms and a group 

of indicator microbes. Ships conducting ballast water management in accordance with 

regulation D-2 shall discharge: 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 less than 10 viable organisms per cubic metre greater than or equal 

to 50 micrometres in minimum dimension; 

.2 less than 10 viable organisms per millilitre less than 50 micrometres in minimum 

dimension and greater than or equal to 10 micrometres in minimum dimension; and 

.3 discharge of the indicator microbes shall not exceed: 

(i) Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (O1 and O139) with less than 1 colony 

forming unit (cfu) per 100 millilitres or less than 1 cfu per 1 gramme 

(wet weight) zooplankton samples; 

(ii) Escherichia coli less than 250 cfu per 100 millilitres; and 

(iii) Intestinal Enterococci less than 100 cfu per 100 millilitres. 

3 DEFINITIONS 

3.1 For the purpose of these Guidelines, the definitions as stated in the Convention apply 

and: 

.1 “Minimum Dimension” means the minimum dimension of an organism based 

upon the dimensions of that organism’s body, ignoring e.g., the size of spines, 

flagellae, or antenna. The minimum dimension should therefore be the smallest 

part of the “body”, i.e. the smallest dimension between main body surfaces of an 

individual when looked at from all perspectives. For spherical shaped organisms, 

the minimum dimension should be the spherical diameter. For colony forming 

species, the individual should be measured as it is the smallest unit able to 

reproduce that needs to be tested in viability tests. 

.2 “Sampling Point” means that place in the ballast water piping where the sample is 

taken. 

.3 “Sampling Facilities” means the equipment installed to take the sample. 

4 SAMPLING FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE BALLAST WATER EXCHANGE 

STANDARD (REGULATION D-1) 

4.1 In-tank samples may be taken via sounding or air pipes and manholes by using pumps, 

sampling bottles or other water containers. Samples may also be taken from the discharge line. 

4.2 Sampling the ballast water on arriving ships may provide information on compliance with 

regulation B-4 of the Convention by analysing their physical and/or chemical parameters. 

However, it is difficult to use indicator (physical/chemical) parameters in isolation to 

conclusively prove that ballast water exchange either has or has not occurred to the D-1 Standard. 

As with any analytical procedures or techniques used to test for compliance with regulation B-4, 

methods used to test for compliance with ballast water exchange requirements should be 

rigorously validated and widely distributed through the Organization. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 4 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

5 SAMPLING FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE BALLAST WATER 

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (REGULATION D-2) 

5.1 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 these ballast water sampling Guidelines 

(refer to paragraphs 3.2, 3.8, and section 8 of the Guidelines for approval of ballast water 

management systems (G8) for further detail regarding provision of sampling facilities). 

5.2 Samples should be taken from the discharge line, as near to the point of discharge as 

practicable, during ballast water discharge whenever possible. 

5.3 In cases where the ballast system design does not enable sampling from the discharge 

line, other sampling arrangements may be necessary. Sampling via manholes, sounding pipes, or 

air pipes is not the preferred approach for assessing compliance with regulation D-2. Scientific 

trials have shown that using these sampling locations may not provide accurate estimates of 

organism concentrations that would occur in the discharge, i.e. such sampling may provide an 

under- or over-estimate of the concentration of organisms. 

5.4 In-tank sampling should only be used if ballast water treatment occurs on uptake prior to 

or whilst ballast water is in the tank. If any part of the treatment process occurs during the ballast 

water discharge, then in-tank sampling will be inappropriate. 

5.5 In light of these potential shortcomings, sampling to determine compliance with 

regulation D-2 should, whenever practicable to do so, be carried out in the discharge line near the 

discharge point. 

5.6 An exception to this is the case when tanks are emptied through direct overboard 

discharge valves, as in upper side wing tanks, rather than through the ballast pumps. In such 

cases, tank sampling may be an appropriate approach. 

6 BALLAST WATER SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 

6.1 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. 

6.2 Any sampling protocol for testing of compliance with the Convention should observe the 

following principles to help ensure consistency of approach between Parties and to provide 

certainty to the shipping industry: 

.1 the sampling protocol should be in line with these Guidelines; 

.2 the sampling protocol should result in samples that are representative of the whole 

discharge of ballast water from any single tank or any combination of tanks being 

discharged; 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 5 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.3 the sampling protocol should take account of the potential for a suspended 

sediment load in the discharge to affect sample results; 

.4 the sampling protocol should provide for samples to be taken at appropriate 

discharge points; 

.5 the quantity and quality of samples taken should be sufficient to demonstrate 

whether the ballast water being discharged meets with the relevant standard; 

.6 sampling should be undertaken in a safe and practical manner; 

.7 samples should be concentrated to a manageable size; 

.8 samples should be taken, sealed and stored to ensure that they can be used to test 

for compliance with the Convention; 

.9 samples should be fully analysed within test method holding time limit using an 

accredited laboratory; and 

.10 samples should be transported, handled and stored with the consideration of the 

chain of custody. 

6.3 Prior to testing for compliance with the D-2 standard, it is recommended that, as a first 

step, an indicative analysis of ballast water discharge may be undertaken to establish whether a 

ship is potentially compliant or non-compliant. Such a test could help the Party identify 

immediate mitigation measures, within their existing powers, to avoid any additional impact from 

a possible non-compliant ballast water discharge from the ship. 

6.4 In emergency or epidemic situations, port States may use alternative sampling methods 

which may need to be introduced at short notice and should endeavour to communicate these to 

ships entering ports under their jurisdiction. Although in such situations they may not necessarily 

notify the Organization, such notification could be beneficial for other Parties. 

6.5 Alternative sampling measures instigated as a result of paragraph 6.4 should give due 

cognizance to the requirements of article 12 of the Convention. 

6.6 Given the complexity in ballast water sampling and analysis, it is likely that new 

approaches will be developed for ballast sampling and analyses of the composition, 

concentration, and viability of organisms. Administrations are encouraged to share information 

concerning methods for the analysis of ballast water samples, using existing scientific reports, 

and papers distributed through the Organization. 

6.7 The Organization should make available, through any appropriate means, information 

communicated to it regarding ballast water sampling and analysis. 

6.8 Further guidance on the interpretation of the results arising from sample analysis will be 

developed by the Organization in due course. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 6 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Annex

This annex provides practical recommendations regarding sampling techniques and procedures 

for use by Member States and port State control and other authorized officers assessing 

compliance with regulation D-1 or D-2. 

PART 1 SAMPLING FROM THE BALLAST WATER DISCHARGE LINE 

PART 2 SAMPLING FROM BALLAST WATER TANKS 

PART 3 SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS PROTOCOLS 

PART 4 SAMPLE DATA FORMS 

PART 5 HEALTH AND SAFETY ASPECTS 

PART 6 RECOMMENDATION FOR A PORT STATE CONTROL BALLAST WATER 

 SAMPLING KIT 

PART 7 MAINTENANCE, STORAGE, LABELLING AND TRANSPORTATION 

PART 8 CHAIN OF CUSTODY RECORD 

PART 1 – SAMPLING FROM THE BALLAST WATER DISCHARGE LINE 

1 The advantage in sampling the biota present in the ballast water discharge line is that this 

is most likely to accurately represent the concentration of substances and organisms in the actual 

discharge, which is of primary concern in assessing compliance with the discharge regulations. 

2 The disadvantages of this method are that, on most ships, in-line sampling should be 

carried out in the engine room, where space may be limited, and the handling of water once the 

samples were concentrated may be impracticable. 

3 In order to undertake an accurate measurement on the organism concentration in the 

ballast water, it is recommended to install an “isokinetic” sampling facility. Isokinetic sampling 

is intended for the sampling of water mixtures with secondary immiscible phases 

(i.e. sand or oil) in which there are substantial density differentials. In such conditions, 

convergence and divergence from sampling ports is of significant concern. Since most 

organisms are relatively neutrally buoyant, true isokinetic sampling is unnecessary. However, 

the mathematics related to isokinetic sampling are deemed to be useful as a basis for describing 

and specifying sampling geometries. Isokinetic sampling is necessary to ensure that a sample 

contains the same proportions of the various flowing constituents as the flow stream being 

sampled. During isokinetic sampling the sampling device does not alter the profile or velocity of 

the flowing stream at the moment or point at which the sample is separated from the main flow 

stream. Under isokinetic conditions, the velocities of both the sample and the main flow are 

equal at the point at which the sample is separated from the main flow. To achieve isokinetic 

sampling conditions, a sampler is designed to separate a subsection of the total flow-stream in a 

manner that does not encourage or discourage water entry other than that which is otherwise in 

the cross-section of the sampler opening. In other words, flow streams in the main flow of the 

pipe should not diverge or converge as they approach the opening of the sampler. 

4 Technical specifications for design of in-line sampling facilities 

4.1 Through computational fluid dynamics modelling, it has been shown that the isokinetic 

diameter calculation can provide guidance for sizing of sample ports for sampling of organisms. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 7 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Simulations showed that flow transitions from the main stream were best for sample port 

diameters between 1.5 and 2.0 times the isokinetic diameter. Ports sized in this range had smooth 

transitions and pressure profiles that allowed for direct sampling without the need of a pump to 

induce sample collection. The isokinetic sample port diameter should therefore be determined 

generally according to the equation: 

 Diso = Dm Qiso /Qm

where Diso and Dm are the diameters of the sample port opening and the main flow in the discharge 

line, respectively; and Qiso and Qm represent the respective volumetric flow rates through the two 

pipes. It is recommended that sample port size be based on the combination of maximum sample flow 

rate and minimum ballast flow rate that yields the largest isokinetic diameter. 

4.2 The opening of the sampling pipe should be chamfered to provide a smooth and gradual 

transition between the inside and outside pipe diameters. 

4.3 The length of the straight sample pipe facing into the flow can vary, but should not 

usually be less than one diameter of the sampling pipe. The sampling port should be oriented 

such that the opening is facing upstream and its lead length is parallel to the direction of flow and 

concentric to the discharge pipe which may require sampling pipes to be “L” shaped with an 

upstream facing leg if installed along a straight section of discharge pipe. 

4.4 The need to be able to service the sample pipe is important and should be considered, 

taking the safety of ship into consideration. Therefore, the sampling pipe should be retrievable 

either manually, or mechanically, or it should be in a system which can be isolated. Because of 

the potential for the opening and interior of the sample pipe to become occluded by biological or 

inorganic fouling, it is recommended that samplers be designed to be closable at the opening, 

removed between sampling intervals or be easily cleaned prior to sampling. 

4.5 The sample pipe and all associated parts of the sampler that come into contact or near 

proximity with the ballast piping should be constructed of galvanically compatible materials and 

generally corrosion resistant. Any corrosion of the sampling system will affect sample flow rates 

and potentially sample representativeness. 

4.6 If flow control of the sample flow rate is required, ball, gate and butterfly valve types 

should be avoided as they may cause significant shear forces which may result in organism 

mortality. For flow control, it is recommended that diaphragm valves or similar valve types be 

used to minimize sharp velocity transitions. For flow distribution, ball valves may be utilized in 

such a manner that they are either fully open or fully closed.

5 Technical specifications for installation of a sample point in the ballast water 

discharge line

5.1 The sample taken should be removed from the main pipeline at a location where the 

flowing stream at the sample point is representative of the contents of the stream. The sample 

facility should be placed at a point where the flow in the main pipe is fully mixed and fully 

developed. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 8 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

5.2 The sampling point should be installed in a straight part of the discharge line as near to 

the ballast water discharge overboard as practicable. The sampling facility should be positioned 

such that a representative sample of ballast water is taken. It is recommended that the position of 

the sample point is established using methods such as computational fluid dynamics. 

PART 2 – SAMPLING FROM BALLAST WATER TANKS 

1 In-tank sampling may be appropriate for assessing D-1 compliance. There may be 

circumstances when in-tank sampling to provide an indication of compliance or non-compliance 

with the ballast water performance standard D-2 may be found appropriate. D-2 compliance 

should be assessed at ballast water discharge, whenever this is possible. 

2 Manholes 

2.1 Sampling of ballast water via manholes allows direct access to ballast tanks and ballast holds. 

2.2 The disadvantages of this type of sampling access include the need for opening and 

closing manholes and hatches. Further, overlaying cargo may prevent access for sampling. 

Also, hatches and horizontal openings inside tanks are not aligned one below the other, which 

means that although the tank may have three or more decks, only the top deck may be accessible 

for sampling. Further, in some ships, access hatches and vertical openings are on the side of the 

tank and thus are not accessible unless the tank is empty. Another disadvantage is ladders and 

platforms may inhibit access to the full depth of the tank. Sampling from some certain parts of 

the ballast water tank may result in a lack of representation of the whole ballast water discharge. 

2.3 Samples should be collected using scientific sampling equipment including plankton nets 

and pumps, as appropriate, for the sampling and analytical method intended for use. 

2.4 Whenever possible samples should be taken from multiple water depths inside the ballast 

tank. 

2.5 When employing plankton nets: 

.1 the sample should be taken in a vertical net haul from the deepest sampling point 

accessible in the tank; 

.2 all plankton nets should be lowered to the maximum accessible depth inside the 

ballast tank and retrieved at a speed of approximately 0.5 m/s; and 

.3 multiple vertical net hauls may be needed to meet the required sample volume. 

The water volume sampled may be measured by flow meters in the opening of the 

net or by noting the sampling depth and net opening diameter. 

2.6 When employing pumps: 

.1 pump intake pipes should be lowered to multiple depths (if possible) for different 

samples to obtain a vertical sample; and 

.2 the water volume sampled may be measured by flow meters in the hose or by 

using larger containers to measure the pumped water volume. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 9 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3 Sounding pipes or air pipes 

3.1 Sampling by sounding pipes, when available, could be appropriate due to accessibility. 

However, there are some limitations when using this point to test for compliance. The use of 

sounding pipes will be more effective when the ship’s sounding pipes are perforated along their 

length, ensuring better mixing of ballast water and that within the sounding tube. However, care 

must be taken if initial water samples from a sounding pipe indicate no or insufficient exchange 

even though the ship’s records document otherwise. Experience has shown that in some cases 

water within unperforated sounding pipes is not affected during an exchange. This may occur 

during flow-through because the water in pipes is not exposed to the mixing within the tank. 

This may also occur during empty refill when water in the sounding pipes is held within the pipe 

by vacuum pressure while the tanks are drained and then filled. 

3.2 Samples should be collected using scientific sampling equipment as appropriate. 

4 Use of pumps 

4.1 Pumps of various types may be used to sample via sounding or air pipes. 

4.1.1 The use of pumps may be limited by inability to overcome the pumping head, i.e. when 

the vertical distance from the pump to the water level in tank exceeds 10 metres, suction pumps 

cannot be used. 

4.1.2 Pump intake pipes should be lowered to multiple depths (if possible) for different samples 

to obtain a vertical sample. The water volume sampled may be measured by flow meters in the 

hose or by using larger containers to measure the pumped water volume. 

4.2 In principle, intrinsically safe pumps should be used in all circumstances. 

4.3 Pumps that do not contribute to the mortality of organisms should be preferred. 

PART 3 – SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS PROTOCOLS 

1 The sample volume and number of samples required will depend upon: 

.1 the objective of sampling, e.g., to determine the number of organisms in different 

size classes; to assess the viability of organisms in different size classes; or to 

assess compliance with the D-1 or D-2 standard; 

.2 the specific analytical method to be used; and 

.3 the statistical significance and certainty required. 

2 Sample handling and storage will also vary depending on the objectives and specific 

analytical methods. In particular the way the sample is taken (e.g., net or pump) and the 

conditions in which it is stored (e.g., light, temperature, storage container) should be appropriate 

for the analytical method used. 

3 Sample analysis methods are rapidly developing and the best available procedures should 

be used consistently with availability. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 10 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4 The sampling and analysis methodologies to test for compliance with the Convention are 

still in development. Although significant technical advances and refinements have been made in 

these areas since the adoption of the Convention, there are still numerous issues to be resolved. 

Administrations are still undertaking research to define the most appropriate methods to test for 

compliance, and the best way to take, handle and analyse samples. 

5 At the present time, there are no specific sampling or analysis protocols that can be 

recommended for Administrations to use. However, it is expected that in due course this 

information is likely to become available once full compliance testing regimes are developed 

and Administrations have had time to gain experience and develop best practice in ballast water 

sampling and analysis. 

6 An IMO circular will be developed as a high-priority matter, to provide sampling and 

analysis protocols to be followed and give advice on the uniform application of these protocols. 

Such a circular will be updated when new protocols are developed. 

7 To aid this process, Administrations are requested to supply information on any 

scientifically validated sampling and analysis techniques to the Organization, as soon as possible. 

PART 4 – SAMPLE DATA FORM 

The following minimum information is recommended for sample documentation: 

Sampling date 

Ship particulars Name of ship: 

Distinctive number or letters 

Port of registry: 

Gross tonnage: 

IMO Number: 

Date of construction: 

Ballast water capacity: 

Identification of sampled tank* 

Type and position of sampled tank* 

Capacity of sampled tank* (m3) 

Type of ballast water management undertaken (type of exchange or treatment) 

Make of ballast water management system 

Date of ballast water management undertaken 

Sample identification code (including number of replicate) 

Sample type (larger, smaller plankton, microbes) 

Sampling techniques used net (including depth of vertical net haul, net 

opening size, mesh size) 

pumps (including sampling depth, pumping 

capacity in l/min.) 

bottle (incl. sampling depth, bottle capacity in l.) 

specify other sampling technique if used 

Sampling time/start 

Sampling end time 

Origin of water sampled* (lat/lon/port) 

* If appropriate. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 11 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Type of sampling access point 

Location of sampling access point 

Water volume sampled (by volume) 

In case sample is concentrated on board specify 

filter or net sizes (if applicable) 

(μm) 

Preservative (if used) 

Transport to laboratory cooling container, dark storage, etc. 

Sample results 

* If appropriate. 

Other information as necessary should be included in the table.

PART 5 – HEALTH AND SAFETY ASPECTS 

1 As shipboard and port State control procedures on health and safety aspects already exist 

there is no need to develop new procedures for the purpose of ballast water sampling. In general, 

ship procedures, especially for entry into enclosed spaces, shall be followed if more stringent 

than national regulations. However, the following paragraphs provide some additional guidance. 

2 Worker health and safety should be a primary consideration during all the sampling 

operations as ships and ports are hazardous environments in which to work. Any sampling 

operation should be undertaken after consideration of the specific risks associated with the ballast 

water being sampled. Appropriate personal protective equipment connected with the work 

should be worn as necessary. 

3 In the event sampling involves entry into confined spaces, Recommendations for entering 

enclosed spaces aboard ships (resolution A.864(20)) and relevant IACS Recommendations on 

confined space safe practice (www.iacs.org.uk), and standard industry practice on man entry into 

enclosed spaces should be consulted (e.g., ISGOTT). 

4 All electrical equipment, including torches, should be intrinsically safe for use on board 

ships when required. Safety limitations on the use of mobile telephones, etc., should always be 

observed. Standard industry practice on the use of electrical equipment including mobile 

telephone should be consulted (e.g., ISGOTT). 

5 All electrical equipment to be used aboard should be checked to ensure that it is 

intrinsically safe. Pumps in particular should be fitted with waterproof junctions at the point 

where the electrical lead passes into the pump body and all plugs should be waterproof with 

rubber casings. If there is any doubt about an electrical supply or equipment aboard a vessel, 

advice from the ship’s master or a member of the port company electrical staff should be sought. 

PART 6 – RECOMMENDATION FOR A PORT STATE CONTROL BALLAST 

WATER SAMPLING KIT 

1 The sampling kit for discharge line sampling should in minimum consist of: 

• net or sieve to concentrate sample (with replacement material of identical mesh 

size); 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 12 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

• at least two containers to measure water volume extracted from discharge line. 

The container is further needed to collect sieved water for rinsing sieve or net 

when sampling is completed; 

• water appropriate for rinsing net or sieve; 

• funnel to ease filling of sample container; 

• sample containers including sterile containers for microbial analysis; 

• all necessary forms including sample data reporting/chain of custody forms; 

• toolkit to enable net or sieve replacement, etc.; 

• tape to seal the sample jar lid to the jar; and 

• first aid kit. 

2 The sampling kit for manhole sampling should in minimum consist of: 

• plankton net with an associated flow meter − scientific trials have shown that 

plankton nets equipped with a cone shaped opening and filtering cod-end provide 

the most accurate samples. Nets to be lowered down into the tank should further 

not exceed 1 m in length and 30 cm in diameter to reduce the risk to become 

entangled inside the tank. A spare net including an extra cod end should be added 

to the sampling kit in case damages occur. A weight (minimum 1 kg) should be 

used to keep the wire vertical during the net haul; 

• rope to lower down net (the rope should be metered to document net haul depth); 

• net or sieve to concentrate sample (with replacement material of identical mesh size) 

spare sieves with identical mesh size should be added to the sampling kit in case 

damages occur; 

• collecting sieved water for rinsing sieve and plankton net when sampling is 

completed; 

• water bottle to rinse net or sieve; 

• funnel to ease filling of sample container; 

• sample containers including sterile containers for microbial analysis; 

• all necessary forms including sample data reporting/chain of custody forms; 

• toolkit to enable net or sieve replacement, etc.; 

• tape to seal the sample jar lid to the jar; and 

• first aid kit. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 13 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3 The sampling kit for sounding or air pipe sampling should in minimum consist of: 

• pump (e.g., suction, power or air driven); 

• hose (optional with weight to ease lowering down the hose); 

• net or sieve to concentrate sample (with replacement material of identical mesh 

size); 

• at least two containers to measure water volume pumped on deck. The container 

is further needed to collect sieved water for rinsing sieve when sampling is 

completed and to rinse hose; 

• water bottle to rinse net or sieve; 

• funnel to ease filling of sample container; 

• sample containers including sterile containers for microbial analysis; 

• all necessary forms including sample data reporting/chain of custody forms; 

• toolkit to enable net or sieve replacement, opening of sounding or air pipes, etc.; 

• tape to seal the sample jar lid to the jar; and 

• first aid kit. 

PART 7 – MAINTENANCE, STORAGE, LABELLING AND TRANSPORTATION 

1 Samples should be handled and stored as appropriate for the intended analytical method. 

The sample collection data form and chain of custody record should be kept with each individual 

sample. 

2 Sample Sealing: Tape should be used to seal the sample jar lid to the jar. 

3 Sample data forms: Prior to the beginning of the sampling programme, a suitable set of 

recording forms based on part 4 should be designed which incorporate all the sample information 

required to meet the aims of the programme. Details of each sample should be entered on the 

forms as soon as practicable. 

4 Labelling of sample containers: Each sample container should be labelled by, e.g., using a 

waterproof permanent marker and additional vegetal paper which may be deposited inside the 

sample container, if appropriate. The information recorded should include but not be limited to 

the date, ship name, sample identification code, tank numbers and preservative if used. Codes 

may be used for some of these details as long as they are included on the sample data forms. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 3 

Page 14 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

PART 8 – CHAIN OF CUSTODY RECORD 

1 In the context of compliance control, it is advisable to maintain chain of custody records 

for the samples collected. 

2 Information to be included should contain a complete record of those handling the sample 

from the time of the sampling onwards. 

3 The chain of custody should also include date, ship identification, sample identification 

code, and a list of people who have handled the sample, including the person who takes the 

sample, dates and time, and the reason for sample transfer and the integrity of the sample on 

transfer. 

*** 
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 4 

RESOLUTION MEPC.174(58) 

Adopted on 10 October 2008 

GUIDELINES FOR APPROVAL OF 

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (G8) 

THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE, 

RECALLING Article 38(a) of the Convention on the International Maritime Organization 

concerning the functions of the Marine Environment Protection Committee conferred upon it by 

the international conventions for the prevention and control of marine pollution, 

 RECALLING ALSO that the International Conference on Ballast Water Management for 

Ships held in February 2004 adopted the International Convention for the Control and 

Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (the Ballast Water Management 

Convention) together with four conference resolutions, 

NOTING that regulation D-3 of the Annex to the Ballast Water Management Convention 

provides that ballast water management systems used to comply with this Convention must be 

approved by the Administration, taking into account Guidelines developed by the Organization, 

NOTING ALSO resolution MEPC.125(53) by which the Committee adopted 

the Guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems (G8), 

NOTING FURTHER that by resolution MEPC.125(53), the Committee resolved to 

keep Guidelines (G8) under review in the light of experience gained, 

 HAVING CONSIDERED, at its fifty-eighth session, the recommendation made by the 

Ballast Water Review Group, 

1. ADOPTS the revised Guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems (G8), 

as set out in the Annex to this resolution; 

2. INVITES Member Governments to give due consideration to the revised Guidelines (G8) 

when type approving ballast water management systems; 

3. AGREES to keep the revised Guidelines (G8) under review in the light of experience 

gained; 

4. URGES Member Governments to bring the aforementioned Guidelines to the attention of 

manufacturers of ballast water management systems and other parties concerned with a view to 

encouraging their use; and 

5. REVOKES the Guidelines adopted by resolution MEPC.125(53). 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 

GUIDELINES FOR APPROVAL OF 

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (G8) 

Contents 

1 INTRODUCTION 

General 

 Goal and purpose 

 Applicability 

 Summary of requirements 

2 BACKGROUND 

3 DEFINITIONS 

4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 

Ballast water management systems 

 Ballast water treatment equipment 

 Control and monitoring equipment 

5 TYPICAL DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PLAN APPROVAL 

PROCESS 

6 APPROVAL AND CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES 

7 INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS 

Sampling facilities 

8 INSTALLATION SURVEY AND COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES 

ANNEX 

PART 1 – SPECIFICATIONS FOR PRE-TEST EVALUATION OF SYSTEM 

DOCUMENTATION 

PART 2 – TEST AND PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF 

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

PART 3 – SPECIFICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING FOR APPROVAL 

OF BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

PART 4 – SAMPLE ANALYSIS METHODS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF 

BIOLOGICAL CONSTITUENTS IN BALLAST WATER 

Appendix – TYPE APPROVAL CERTIFICATE OF BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT 

SYSTEM
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

GUIDELINES FOR APPROVAL OF 

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (G8) 

1 INTRODUCTION 

General 

1.1 These Guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems are aimed 

primarily at Administrations, or their designated bodies, in order to assess whether ballast 

water management systems meet the standard as set out in regulation D-2 of the 

“International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water 

and Sediments,” hereafter referred to as the “Convention”. In addition, this document can be 

used as guidance for manufacturers and shipowners on the evaluation procedure that 

equipment will undergo and the requirements placed on ballast water management systems. 

These Guidelines should be applied in an objective, consistent and transparent way and their 

application should be evaluated periodically by the Organization. 

1.2 Articles and regulations referred to in these Guidelines are those contained in 

the Convention. 

1.3 The Guidelines include general requirements concerning design and construction, 

technical procedures for evaluation and the procedure for issuance of the Type Approval 

Certificate of the ballast water management system. 

1.4 These Guidelines are intended to fit within an overall framework for evaluating the 

performance of systems that includes the experimental shipboard evaluation of prototype systems 

under the provisions of regulation D-4, approval of ballast water management systems and 

associated systems that comply fully with the requirements of the Convention, and port State 

control sampling for compliance under the provisions of article 9 of the Convention. 

1.5 The requirements of regulation D-3 stipulate that ballast water management systems used 

to comply with the Convention must be approved by the Administration, taking into account 

these Guidelines. In addition to such ballast water management system approval, as set forth in 

regulation A-2 and regulation B-3, the Convention requires that discharges of ballast water from 

ships must meet the regulation D-2 performance standard on an on-going basis. Approval of a 

system is intended to screen-out management systems that would fail to meet the standards 

prescribed in regulation D-2 of the Convention. Approval of a system, however, does not ensure 

that a given system will work on all vessels or in all situations. To satisfy the Convention, a 

discharge must comply with the D-2 standard throughout the life of the vessel. 

1.6 The operation of ballast water management systems should not impair the health and 

safety of the ship or personnel, nor should it present any unacceptable harm to the 

environment or to public health. 

1.7 Ballast water management systems are required to meet the standards of 

regulation D-2 and the conditions established in regulation D-3 of the Convention. 

These Guidelines serve to evaluate the safety, environmental acceptability, practicability and 

biological effectiveness of the systems designed to meet these standards and conditions. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 4 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

The cost effectiveness of type-approved equipment will be used in determining the need for 

revisions of these Guidelines. 

1.8 These Guidelines contain recommendations regarding the design, installation, 

performance, testing environmental acceptability and approval of ballast water 

management systems. 

1.9 To achieve consistency in its application, the approval procedure requires that a uniform 

manner of testing, analysis of samples, and evaluation of results is developed and applied. 

These Guidelines should be applied in an objective, consistent, and transparent way; and their 

suitability should be periodically evaluated and revised as appropriate by the Organization. 

New versions of these Guidelines should be duly circulated by the Organization. Due 

consideration should be given to the practicability of the ballast water management systems. 

Goal and purpose 

1.10 The goal of these Guidelines is to ensure uniform and proper application of the 

standards contained in the Convention. As such the Guidelines are to be updated as the state 

of knowledge and technology may require. 

1.11 The purposes of these Guidelines are to: 

.1 define test and performance requirements for the approval of ballast water 

management systems; 

.2 assist Administrations in determining appropriate design, construction and 

operational parameters necessary for the approval of ballast water management 

systems; 

.3 provide a uniform interpretation and application of the requirements of 

regulation D-3; 

.4 provide guidance to Administrations, equipment manufacturers and shipowners in 

determining the suitability of equipment to meet the requirements of 

the Convention and of the environmental acceptability of treated water; and 

.5 assure that ballast water management systems approved by Administrations are 

capable of achieving the standard of regulation D-2 in land-based and shipboard 

evaluations and do not cause unacceptable harm to the vessel, crew, the 

environment or public health. 

Applicability 

1.12 These Guidelines apply to the approval of ballast water management systems in 

accordance with the Convention. 

1.13 These Guidelines apply to ballast water management systems intended for installation 

on board all ships required to comply with regulation D-2. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 5 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Summary of requirements 

1.14 The land-based and shipboard approval requirements for ballast water management 

systems specified in these guidelines are summarized below. 

1.15 The manufacturer of the equipment should submit information regarding the design, 

construction, operation and functioning of the ballast water management system in 

accordance with Part 1 of the annex. This information should be the basis for a first 

evaluation of suitability by the Administration. 

1.16 The ballast water management system should be tested for Type Approval in 

accordance with the procedures described in Parts 2 and 3 of the annex. 

1.17 Successful fulfilment of the requirements and procedures for Type Approval as 

outlined in Parts 2 and 3 of the annex should lead to the issuance of a Type Approval 

Certificate by the Administration. 

1.18 When a Type Approved ballast water management system is installed on board, an 

installation survey according to section 8 should be carried out. 

2 BACKGROUND 

2.1 The requirements of the Convention relating to approval of ballast water management 

systems used by ships are set out in regulation D-3. 

2.2 Regulation D-2 stipulates that ships meeting the requirements of the Convention by 

meeting the ballast water performance standard must discharge: 

.1 less than 10 viable organisms per cubic metre greater than or equal 

to 50 micrometres in minimum dimension; 

.2 less than 10 viable organisms per millilitre less than 50 micrometres in minimum 

dimension and greater than or equal to 10 micrometres in minimum dimension; 

and 

.3 less than the following concentrations of indicator microbes, as a human health 

standard: 

.1 Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139) with less 

than 1 Colony Forming Unit (cfu) per 100 millilitres or less than 1 cfu 

per 1 gramme (wet weight) of zooplankton samples; 

.2 Escherichia coli less than 250 cfu per 100 millilitres; and 

.3 Intestinal Enterococci less than 100 cfu per 100 millilitres. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 6 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3 DEFINITIONS 

For the purpose of these Guidelines: 

3.1 Active Substance means a substance or organism, including a virus or a fungus that 

has a general or specific action on or against harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens. 

3.2 Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) means any system which processes 

ballast water such that it meets or exceeds the ballast water performance standard in 

regulation D-2. The BWMS includes ballast water treatment equipment, all associated 

control equipment, monitoring equipment and sampling facilities. 

3.3 The Ballast Water Management Plan is the document referred to in regulation B-1 of 

the Convention describing the ballast water management process and procedures 

implemented on board individual ships. 

3.4 Ballast Water Treatment Equipment means equipment which mechanically, 

physically, chemically, or biologically processes, either singularly or in combination, 

to remove, render harmless, or avoid the uptake or discharge of harmful aquatic organisms 

and pathogens within ballast water and sediments. Ballast water treatment equipment may 

operate at the uptake or discharge of ballast water, during the voyage, or at a combination of 

these events. 

3.5 Control Equipment refers to the installed equipment required to operate and control 

the ballast water treatment equipment. 

3.6 The Convention means the International Convention for the Control and Management 

of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments. 

3.7 Monitoring Equipment refers to the equipment installed for the assessment of the 

effective operation of the ballast water treatment equipment. 

3.8 Sampling Facilities refers to the means provided for sampling treated or untreated 

ballast water as needed in these Guidelines and in the “Guidelines for ballast water 

sampling (G2)” developed by the Organization. 

3.9 Shipboard Testing is a full-scale test of a complete BWMS carried out on board a ship 

according to Part 2 of the annex to these Guidelines, to confirm that the system meets the 

standards set by regulation D-2 of the Convention. 

3.10 Treatment Rated Capacity (TRC) is the maximum continuous capacity expressed in 

cubic metres per hour for which the BWMS is type approved. It states the amount of ballast 

water that can be treated per unit time by the BWMS to meet the standard in regulation D-2 

of the Convention. 

3.11 Land-based Testing is a test of the BWMS carried out in a laboratory, equipment 

factory or pilot plant including a moored test barge or test ship, according to Parts 2 and 3 of 

the annex to these Guidelines, to confirm that the BWMS meets the standards set by 

regulation D-2 of the Convention. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 7 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.12 Viable Organisms are organisms and any life stages thereof that are living. 

4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 

4.1 This section details the general technical requirements which a BWMS should meet in 

order to obtain Type Approval. 

Ballast water management systems 

4.2 The BWMS should not contain or use any substance of a dangerous nature, unless 

adequate arrangements for storage, application, mitigation, and safe handling, acceptable to 

the Administration, are provided to mitigate any hazards introduced thereby. 

4.3 In case of any failure compromising the proper operation of the BWMS, audible and 

visual alarm signals should be given in all stations from which ballast water operations 

are controlled. 

4.4 All working parts of the BWMS that are liable to wear or to be damaged should be 

easily accessible for maintenance. The routine maintenance of the BWMS and 

troubleshooting procedures should be clearly defined by the manufacturer in the operating 

and maintenance manual. All maintenance and repairs should be recorded. 

4.5 To avoid interference with the BWMS, the following items should be included: 

.1 every access of the BWMS beyond the essential requirements of paragraph 4.4, 

should require the breaking of a seal; 

.2 if applicable, the BWMS should be so constructed that a visual alarm is always 

activated whenever the BWMS is in operation for purposes of cleaning, 

calibration, or repair, and these events should be recorded by the control 

equipment; 

.3 in the event of an emergency, suitable by-passes or overrides to protect the 

safety of the ship and personnel should be installed; and 

.4 any bypass of the BWMS should activate an alarm, and the bypass event 

should be recorded by the Control Equipment. 

4.6 Facilities should be provided for checking, at the renewal surveys and according to the 

manufacturer’s instructions, the performance of the BWMS components that take 

measurements. A calibration certificate certifying the date of the last calibration check, 

should be retained on board for inspection purposes. Only the manufacturer or persons 

authorized by the manufacturer should perform the accuracy checks. 

Ballast water treatment equipment 

4.7 The ballast water treatment equipment should be robust and suitable for working in 

the shipboard environment, should be of a design and construction adequate for the service 

for which it is intended and should be so installed and protected as to reduce to a minimum 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 8 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

any danger to persons on board, due regard being paid to hot surfaces and other hazards. 

The design should have regard to materials used in construction, the purpose for which the 

equipment is intended, the working conditions to which it will be subjected and the 

environmental conditions on board. 

4.8 The ballast water treatment equipment should be provided with simple and effective 

means for its operation and control. It should be provided with a control system that should 

be such that the services needed for the proper operation of the ballast water treatment 

equipment are ensured through the necessary automatic arrangements. 

4.9 The ballast water treatment equipment should, if intended to be fitted in locations 

where flammable atmospheres may be present, comply with the relevant safety regulations 

for such spaces. Any electrical equipment that is part of the BWMS should be based in a 

non-hazardous area, or should be certified by the Administration as safe for use in a 

hazardous area. Any moving parts, which are fitted in hazardous areas, should be arranged 

so as to avoid the formation of static electricity. 

Control and monitoring equipment 

4.10 The BWMS should incorporate control equipment that automatically monitors and 

adjusts necessary treatment dosages or intensities or other aspects of the BWMS of the 

vessel, which while not directly effecting treatment, are nonetheless required for proper 

administration of the necessary treatment. 

4.11 The control equipment should incorporate a continuous self-monitoring function 

during the period in which the BWMS is in operation. 

4.12 The monitoring equipment should record the proper functioning or failure of 

the BWMS. 

4.13 To facilitate compliance with regulation B-2, the control equipment should also be 

able to store data for at least 24 months, and should be able to display or print a record for 

official inspections as required. In the event the control equipment is replaced, means should 

be provided to ensure the data recorded prior to replacement remains available on board 

for 24 months. 

4.14 It is recommended that simple means be provided aboard ship to check on drift by 

measuring devices that are part of the control equipment, repeatability of the control 

equipment devices, and the ability to re-zero the control equipment meters. 

5 TYPICAL DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PLAN APPROVAL PROCESS 

5.1 The documentation submitted for approval should include at least the following: 

.1 a description of the BWMS. The description should include a diagrammatic 

drawing of the typical or required pumping and piping arrangements, and 

sampling facilities, identifying the operational outlets for treated ballast water 

and any waste streams as appropriate and necessary. Special considerations 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 9 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

may have to be given to installations intended for ships that have unusual 

pumping and piping arrangements; 

.2 equipment manuals, supplied by manufacturers, containing details of the major 

components of the BWMS and their operation and maintenance; 

.3 a generic operations and technical manual for the complete BWMS. This 

manual should cover the arrangements, the operation and maintenance of the 

BWMS as a whole and should specifically describe parts of the BWMS which 

are not covered by the manufacturer’s equipment manuals; 

.4 the operations section of the manual including normal operational procedures 

and procedures for the discharge of untreated water in the event of malfunction 

of the ballast water treatment equipment, maintenance procedures, and 

emergency action necessary for securing the ship; 

.5 methods for the conditioning of treated water prior to discharge should be 

provided, and assessment of discharged water should include a description of 

the effect of treatment on the ship’s ballast water, in particular the nature of 

any treatment residuals and by-products and the water’s suitability for 

discharge into coastal waters. A description should also be provided of any 

actions necessary to monitor, and if necessary “condition”, treated water prior 

to discharge in order that it meets applicable water quality regulations; if it can 

reasonably be concluded that the treatment process could result in changes to 

the chemical composition of the treated water such that adverse impacts to 

receiving waters might occur upon discharge, the documentation should 

include results of toxicity tests of treated water. The toxicity tests should 

include assessments of the effects of hold time following treatment, and 

dilution, on the toxicity. Toxicity tests of the treated water should be 

conducted in accordance with paragraphs 5.2.3 to 5.2.7 of the Procedure 

for approval of ballast water management systems that make use 

of Active Substances (G9), as revised, (resolution MEPC.169(57)); 

.6 a description of BWMS side streams (e.g., filtered material, centrifugal 

concentrate, waste or residual chemicals) including a description of the actions 

planned to properly manage and dispose of such wastes; 

.7 a technical section of the manual including adequate information (description 

and diagrammatic drawings of the monitoring system and electrical/electronic 

wiring diagrams) to enable faultfinding. This section should include 

instructions for keeping a maintenance record; 

.8 a technical installation specification defining, inter alia, requirements for the 

location and mounting of components, arrangements for maintaining the 

integrity of the boundary between safe and hazardous spaces and the 

arrangement of the sample piping; and 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 10 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.9 a recommended test and checkout procedure specific to the BWMS. 

This procedure should specify all the checks to be carried out in a functional 

test by the installation contractor and should provide guidance for the surveyor 

when carrying out the on board survey of the BWMS and confirming the 

installation reflects the manufacturer’s specific installation criteria. 

6 APPROVAL AND CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES 

6.1 A BWMS which in every respect fulfils the requirements of these Guidelines may be 

approved by the Administration for fitting on board ships. The approval should take the form of 

a Type Approval Certificate of BWMS, specifying the main particulars of the apparatus and any 

limiting conditions on its usage necessary to ensure its proper performance. Such certificate 

should be issued in the format shown in appendix 1. A copy of the Type Approval Certificate 

of BWMS should be carried on board ships fitted with such a system at all times. 

6.2 A Type Approval Certificate of BWMS should be issued for the specific application for 

which the BWMS is approved, e.g., for specific ballast water capacities, flow rates, salinity or 

temperature regimes, or other limiting conditions or circumstances as appropriate. 

6.3 A Type Approval Certificate of BWMS should be issued by the Administration based on 

satisfactory compliance with all the test requirements described in Parts 2, 3 and 4 of the annex. 

6.4 An Administration may issue a Type Approval Certificate of BWMS based on separate 

testing or on testing already carried out under supervision by another Administration. 

6.5 The Type Approval Certificate of BWMS should: 

.1 identify the type and model of the BWMS to which it applies and identify 

equipment assembly drawings, duly dated; 

.2 identify pertinent drawings bearing model specification numbers or equivalent 

identification details; 

.3 include a reference to the full performance test protocol on which it is based, and 

be accompanied by a copy of the original test results; and 

.4 identify if it was issued by an Administration based on a Type Approval 

Certificate previously issued by another Administration. Such a certificate should 

identify the Administration that conducted the tests on the BWMS and a copy of 

the original test results should be attached to the Type Approval Certificate 

of BWMS. 

6.6 An approved BWMS may be Type Approved by other Administrations for use on their 

vessels. Should a system approved by one country fail Type Approval in another country, then 

the two countries concerned should consult one another with a view to reaching a mutually 

acceptable agreement. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 11 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

7 INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS 

Sampling facilities 

7.1 The BWMS should be provided with sampling facilities so arranged in order to collect 

representative samples of the ship’s ballast water. 

7.2 Sampling facilities should in any case be located on the BWMS intake, before the 

discharging points, and any other points necessary for sampling to ascertain the proper 

functioning of the equipment as may be determined by the Administration. 

8 INSTALLATION SURVEY AND COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES 

8.1 Verify that the following documentation is on board in a suitable format: 

.1 a copy of the Type Approval Certificate of BWMS; 

.2 a statement from the Administration, or from a laboratory authorized by the 

Administration, to confirm that the electrical and electronic components of 

the BWMS have been type-tested in accordance with the specifications for 

environmental testing contained in Part 3 of the annex; 

.3 equipment manuals for major components of the BWMS; 

.4 an operations and technical manual for the BWMS specific to the ship and 

approved by the Administration, containing a technical description of the BWMS, 

operational and maintenance procedures, and backup procedures in case of 

equipment malfunction; 

.5 installation specifications; 

.6 installation commissioning procedures; and 

.7 initial calibration procedures. 

8.2 Verify that: 

.1 the BWMS installation has been carried out in accordance with the technical 

installation specification referred to in paragraph 8.1.5; 

.2 the BWMS is in conformity with the Type Approval Certificate of BWMS issued 

by the Administration or its representative; 

.3 the installation of the complete BWMS has been carried out in accordance with 

the manufacturer’s equipment specification; 

.4 any operational inlets and outlets are located in the positions indicated on the 

drawing of the pumping and piping arrangements; 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 12 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.5 the workmanship of the installation is satisfactory and, in particular, that any 

bulkhead penetrations or penetrations of the ballast system piping are to the 

relevant approved standards; and 

.6 the control and monitoring equipment operates correctly. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 13 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 

This annex provides detailed test and performance specifications for a BWMS and 

contains: 

PART 1 – Specifications for Pre-test Evaluation of System Documentation 

PART 2 – Test and Performance Specifications for Approval of Ballast Water 

Management Systems 

PART 3 – Specification for Environmental Testing for Approval of Ballast 

Water Management Systems 

PART 4 – Sample Analysis Methods for the Determination of Biological 

Constituents in Ballast Water 

PART 1 – SPECIFICATIONS FOR PRE-TEST EVALUATION OF SYSTEM 

DOCUMENTATION 

1.1 Adequate documentation should be prepared and submitted to the Administration as part 

of the approval process well in advance of the intended approval testing of a BWMS. Approval 

of the submitted documentation should be a pre-requisite for carrying out independent 

approval tests. 

General 

1.2 Documentation should be provided by the manufacturer/developer for two primary 

purposes: evaluating the readiness of the BWMS for undergoing approval testing, and evaluating 

the manufacturer’s proposed test requirements and procedures for the test. 

Readiness evaluation 

1.3 The readiness evaluation should examine the design and construction of the BWMS to 

determine whether there are any fundamental problems that might constrain the ability of 

the BWMS to manage ballast water as proposed by the manufacturer, or to operate safely, 

on board ships. The latter concern should, in addition to basic issues related to the health and 

safety of the crew, interactions with the ship’s systems and cargo, and potential adverse 

environmental effects, also consider the potential for longer-term impacts to the safety of the 

crew and vessel through effects of the BWMS on corrosion in the ballast system and 

other spaces. 

1.4 The evaluation should also address the degree, if any, to which the 

manufacturer’s/developer’s efforts during the research and development phase tested the 

performance and reliability of the system under operational shipboard conditions and should 

include a report of the results of those tests. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 14 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Test proposal evaluation 

1.5 Evaluation of the test proposal should examine all of the manufacturer’s stated 

requirements and procedures for installing, calibrating, and operating (including maintenance 

requirements) the BWMS during a test. This evaluation should help the test organization to 

identify any potential health or environmental safety problems, unusual operating requirements 

(labour or materials), and any issues related to the disposal of treatment by-products or 

waste streams. 

Documentation 

1.6 The documentation to be submitted should include at least the following: 

.l Technical Manual – The technical description should include: 

– product specification; 

– process description; 

– operational instructions; 

– details (including Certificates where appropriate) of the major 

components and materials used; 

– technical installation specifications in accordance with manufacturers’ 

specific installation criteria; 

– system limitations; and 

– routine maintenance and trouble-shooting procedures. 

.2 BWMS Drawings – Diagrammatic drawings of the pumping and piping 

arrangements, electrical/electronic wiring diagrams, which should include 

reference to any waste streams and sampling points; 

.3 Link to the Ballast Water Management Plan – Information regarding the 

characteristics and arrangements in which the system is to be installed as well 

as the scope of the ships (sizes, types and operation) for which the system is 

intended. This information can later form the link between the system and the 

ship’s ballast water management plan; and 

.4 Environmental and Public Health Impacts – Potential hazards for the 

environment should be identified and documented based on environmental 

studies performed to the extent necessary to assure that no harmful effects are 

to be expected. In the case of ballast water management systems that make use 

of Active Substances or Preparations containing one or more Active 

Substances the “Procedure for the approval of ballast water management 

systems that make use of Active Substances (G9)”, as revised, should be 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 15 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

followed. The system should then ensure that dosage of the Active Substance 

and the maximum allowable discharge concentration is kept under the 

approved criteria at all times. In the case of ballast water management systems 

that do not make use of Active Substances or Preparations, but which could 

reasonably be expected to result in changes to the chemical composition of the 

treated water such that adverse impacts to receiving waters might occur upon 

discharge, the documentation should include results of toxicity tests of treated 

water as described in paragraph 5.1.5 of these Guidelines. 

1.7 The documentation may include specific information relevant to the test set-up to be 

used for land-based testing according to these Guidelines. Such information should include 

the sampling needed to ensure proper functioning and any other relevant information needed 

to ensure proper evaluation of the efficacy and effects of the equipment. The information 

provided should also address general compliance with applicable environment, health and 

safety standards during the Type Approval procedure. 

PART 2 – TEST AND PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF 

BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

The Administration decides the sequence of land-based and shipboard testing. 

2.1 Quality Assurance and Quality Control Procedures

2.1.1 The testing body performing the tests should have implemented appropriate quality 

control measures in accordance with recognized international standards acceptable to the 

Administration. 

2.1.2 The approval testing process should contain a rigorous quality control/quality 

assurance program, consisting of: 

.1 Both a Quality Management Plan (QMP) and a Quality Assurance Project Plan 

(QAPP). Guidance on preparation of these plans, along with other guidance 

documents and other general quality control information are available from 

appropriate international organizations4

. 

.2 The QMP addresses the quality control management structure and policies of 

the testing body (including subcontractors and outside laboratories). 

.3 The QAPP is a project specific technical document reflecting the specifics of 

the BWMS to be tested, the test facility, and other conditions affecting the 

actual design and implementation of the required experiments. 

2.2 Shipboard tests 

2.2.1 A shipboard test cycle includes: 

 

4

 Such as ISO/IEC 17025. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 16 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 the uptake of ballast water of the ship; 

.2 the storage of ballast water on the ship; 

.3 treatment of the ballast water in accordance with paragraph 2.2.2.3 by 

the BWMS, except in control tanks; and 

.4 the discharge of ballast water from the ship. 

Success criteria for shipboard testing 

2.2.2 In evaluating the performance of BWMS installation(s) on a ship or ships, the following 

information and results should be supplied to the satisfaction of the Administration: 

.1 Test plan to be provided prior to testing. 

.2 Documentation that the BWMS is of a capacity within the range of the treatment 

rated capacity for which it is intended. 

.3 The amount of ballast water tested in the test cycle on board should be consistent 

with the normal ballast operations of the ship and the BWMS should be operated 

at the treatment rated capacity for which it is intended to be approved. 

.4 Documentation of the results of three consecutive, valid test cycles showing 

discharge of treated ballast water in compliance with regulation D-2. 

.5 Valid tests are indicated by uptake water, for both the control tank and ballast 

water to be treated, with viable organism concentration exceeding 10 times the 

maximum permitted values in regulation D-2.1 and control tank viable organism 

concentration exceeding the values of regulation D-2.1 on discharge. 

.6 Sampling regime: 

.1 For the control tank: 

.1 three replicate samples of influent water, collected over the period 

of uptake (e.g., beginning, middle, end); and 

.2 three replicate samples of discharge control water, collected over 

the period of discharge (e.g., beginning, middle, end). 

.2 For treated ballast water: 

.1 Three replicate samples of discharge treated water collected at 

each of three times during the period of discharge 

(e.g., 3 x beginning, 3 x middle, 3 x end). 

.3 Sample sizes are: 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 17 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 For the enumeration of organisms greater than or equal 

to 50 micrometres or more in minimum dimension, samples of at 

least one cubic metre should be collected. If samples are 

concentrated for enumeration the samples should be concentrated 

using a sieve no greater than 50 micrometres mesh in diagonal 

dimension. 

.2 For the enumeration of organisms greater than or equal 

to 10 micrometres and less than 50 micrometres in minimum 

dimension, samples of at least one litre should be collected. 

If samples are concentrated for enumeration the samples should be 

concentrated using a sieve no greater than 10 micrometres mesh in 

diagonal dimension. 

.3 For the evaluation of bacteria a sample of at least 500 millilitres 

should be taken from the influent and treated water. In the absence 

of laboratory facilities on board the toxicogenic test requirements 

should be conducted in an appropriately approved laboratory. 

However, this may limit the applicability of this test. 

.7 The test cycles including invalid and unsuccessful test cycles are to span a trial 

period of not less than six months. 

.8 The applicant is requested to perform three consecutive test cycles that comply 

with regulation D-2 and which are valid in accordance with paragraph 2.2.2.5. 

Any invalid test cycle does not affect the consecutive sequence. 

.9 The source water for test cycles shall be characterized by measurement of salinity, 

temperature, particulate organic carbon and total suspended solids. 

.10 For system operation throughout the trial period, the following information should 

also be provided: 

.1 documentation of all ballast water operations including volumes and 

locations of uptake and discharge, and if heavy weather was encountered 

and where; 

.2 the possible reasons for the occurrence of an unsuccessful test cycle, or a 

test cycle discharge failing the D-2 standard should be investigated and 

reported to the Administration; 

.3 documentation of scheduled maintenance performed on the system; 

.4 documentation of unscheduled maintenance and repair performed on the 

system; 

.5 documentation of engineering parameters monitored as appropriate to the 

specific system; and 

.6 documentation of functioning of the control and monitoring equipment. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 18 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.3 Land-based testing 

2.3.1 The test set-up including the ballast water treatment equipment should operate as 

described in the provided documentation during at least 5 valid replicate test cycles. Each test 

cycle should take place over a period of at least 5 days. 

2.3.2 A land-based test cycle should include: 

.1 the uptake of ballast water by pumping; 

.2 the storage of ballast water for at least 5 days; 

.3 treatment of ballast water within the BWMS, except in control tanks; and 

.4 the discharge of ballast water by pumping. 

2.3.3 Testing should occur using different water conditions sequentially as provided for in 

paragraphs 2.3.17 and 2.3.18. 

2.3.4 The BWMS should be tested at its rated capacity or as given in paragraphs 2.3.13 

to 2.3.15 for each test cycle. The equipment should function to specifications during this 

test. 

2.3.5 The analysis of treated water discharge from each test cycle should be used to 

determine that the average of discharge samples does not exceed the concentrations of 

regulation D-2 of the Convention. 

2.3.6 The analysis of treated water discharge from the relevant test cycle(s) should also be used 

to evaluate the toxicity of the discharged water for BWMS that make use of Active Substances 

and also for those BWMS that do not make use of Active Substances or Preparations but which 

could reasonably be expected to result in changes to the chemical composition of the treated 

water such that adverse impacts to receiving waters might occur upon discharge. Toxicity tests 

of the treated water discharge should be conducted in accordance with paragraphs 5.2.3 to 5.2.7 

of the Procedure for approval of ballast water management systems that make use 

of Active Substances, as revised (resolution MEPC.169(57)). 

Land-based testing objectives, limitations and criteria for evaluation 

2.3.7 The land-based testing serves to determine the biological efficacy and environmental 

acceptability of the BWMS under consideration for Type Approval. The approval testing aims to 

ensure replicability and comparability to other treatment equipment. 

2.3.8 Any limitations imposed by the ballast water management system on the testing 

procedure described here should be duly noted and evaluated by the Administration. 

Land-based set-up 

2.3.9 The test set-up for approval tests should be representative of the characteristics and 

arrangements of the types of ships in which the equipment is intended to be installed. 

The test set-up should therefore include at least the following: 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 19 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 the complete BWMS to be tested; 

.2 piping and pumping arrangements; and 

.3 the storage tank that simulates a ballast tank, constructed such that the water in 

the tank should be completely shielded from light. 

2.3.10 The control and treated simulated ballast tanks should each include: 

.1 a minimum capacity of 200 m3; 

.2 normal internal structures, including lightening and drainage holes; 

.3 standard industry practices for design, construction and surface coatings for 

ships; and 

.4 the minimum modifications required for structural integrity on land. 

2.3.11 The test set-up should be pressure-washed with tap water, dried and swept to remove 

loose debris, organisms and other matter before starting testing procedures, and between 

test cycles. 

2.3.12 The test set-up will include facilities to allow sampling as described in paragraphs 2.3.26 

and 2.3.27 and provisions to supply influents to the system, as specified in paragraph 2.3.19 

and/or 2.3.20. The installation arrangements should conform in each case with those specified 

and approved under the procedure outlined in section 7 of the main body to these Guidelines. 

Ballast water treatment equipment scaling 

2.3.13 In-line treatment equipment may be downsized for land-based testing, but only when 

the following criteria are taken into account: 

.1 equipment with a TRC equal to or smaller than 200 m3/h should not be 

downscaled; 

.2 equipment with a TRC larger than 200 m3/h but smaller than 1,000 m3/h may 

be downscaled to a maximum of 1:5 scale, but may not be smaller 

than 200 m3/h; and 

.3 equipment with a TRC equal to, or larger than, 1,000 m3/h may be downscaled 

to a maximum of 1:100 scale, but may not be smaller than 200 m3/h. 

2.3.14 The manufacturer of the equipment should demonstrate by using mathematical 

modelling and/or calculations, that any downscaling will not affect the ultimate functioning 

and effectiveness on board a ship of the type and size for which the equipment 

will be certified. 

2.3.15 In-tank treatment equipment should be tested on a scale that allows verification of 

full-scale effectiveness. The suitability of the test set-up should be evaluated by the 

manufacturer and approved by the Administration. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 20 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.3.16 Larger scaling may be applied and lower flow rates used than provided for in 2.3.13, 

if the manufacturer can provide evidence from full-scale shipboard testing and in accordance 

with 2.3.14 that scaling and flow rates will not adversely affect the ability of the results to 

predict full-scale compliance with the standard. 

Land-based test design – inlet and outlet criteria 

2.3.17 For any given set of test cycles (5 replicates is considered a set) a salinity range 

should be chosen. Given the salinity, the test water used in the test set up described above 

should have dissolved and particulate content in one of the following combinations: 

Salinity 

> 32 PSU 3 – 32 PSU < 3 PSU 

Dissolved Organic 

Carbon (DOC) > 1 mg/l > 5 mg/l > 5 mg/l 

Particulate 

Organic Carbon 

(POC) 

> 1 mg/l > 5 mg/l > 5 mg/l 

Total Suspended 

Solids (TSS) > 1 mg/l > 50 mg/l > 50 mg/l 

2.3.18 At least two sets of tests cycles should be conducted, each with a different salinity range 

and associated dissolved and particulate content as prescribed in paragraph 2.3.17. Tests under 

adjacent salinity ranges in the above table should be separated by at least 10 PSU5

. 

2.3.19 Test organisms may be either naturally occurring in the test water, or cultured 

species that may be added to the test water. The organism concentration should comply with 

paragraph 2.3.20 below. 

2.3.20 The influent water should include: 

.1 test organisms of greater than or equal to 50 micrometres or more in minimum 

dimension should be present in a total density of preferably 106

 but not less 

than 105

 individuals per cubic metre, and should consist of at least 5 species 

from at least 3 different phyla/divisions; 

.2 test organisms greater than or equal to 10 micrometres and less 

than 50 micrometres in minimum dimension should be present in a total 

density of preferably 104 but not less than 103 individuals per millilitre, and 

should consist of at least 5 species from at least 3 different phyla/divisions; 

.3 heterotrophic bacteria should be present in a density of at least 104

 living 

bacteria per millilitre; and 

 

5

 For example, if one set of test cycles is carried out at >32 PSU and a second set at 3-32 PSU, the test cycle 

in the 3-32 PSU range needs to be at least 10 PSU less than the lowest salinity used in the test cycle in 

the >32 PSU range.
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 21 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.4 the variety of organisms in the test water should be documented according to 

the size classes mentioned above regardless if natural organism assemblages or 

cultured organisms were used to meet the density and organism variety 

requirements. 

2.3.21 The following bacteria do not need to be added to the influent water, but should be 

measured at the influent and at the time of discharge: 

.1 Coliform; 

.2 Enterococcus group; 

.3 Vibrio cholerae; and 

.4 Heterotrophic bacteria. 

2.3.22 If cultured test organisms are used, then it should be ensured that local applicable 

quarantine regulations are taken into account during culturing and discharge. 

Land-based monitoring and sampling 

2.3.23 Change of numbers of test organisms by treatment and during storage in the 

simulated ballast tank should be measured using methods described in Part 4 of the annex, 

paragraphs 4.5 to 4.7. 

2.3.24 It should be verified that the treatment equipment performs within its specified 

parameters, such as power consumption and flow rate, during the test cycle. 

2.3.25 Environmental parameters such as pH, temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, TSS, 

DOC, POC and turbidity (NTU)6

 should be measured at the same time that the samples 

described are taken. 

2.3.26 Samples during the test should be taken at the following times and locations: 

immediately before the treatment equipment, immediately after the treatment equipment and 

upon discharge. 

2.3.27 The control and treatment cycles may be run simultaneously or sequentially. Control 

samples are to be taken in the same manner as the equipment test as prescribed in 

paragraph 2.3.26 and upon influent and discharge. A series of examples are included 

in figure 1. 

2.3.28 Facilities or arrangements for sampling should be provided to ensure representative 

samples of treated and control water can be taken that introduce as little adverse effects as 

possible on the organisms. 

2.3.29 Samples described in paragraphs 2.3.26 and 2.3.27 should be collected in triplicate 

on each occasion. 

 

6

 NTU=Nominal Turbidity Unit. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 22 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.3.30 Separate samples should be collected for: 

.1 organisms of greater than or equal to 50 micrometres or more in minimum 

dimension; 

.2 organisms greater than or equal to 10 micrometres and less 

than 50 micrometres in minimum dimension; 

.3 for coliform, enterococcus group, Vibrio cholerae and heterotrophic bacteria; 

and 

.4 toxicity testing of treated water, from the discharge, for BWMS that make use 

of Active Substances and also for those BWMS that do not make use 

of Active Substances or Preparations but which could reasonably be expected to 

result in changes to the chemical composition of the treated water such that 

adverse impacts to receiving waters might occur upon discharge. 

2.3.31 For the comparison of organisms of greater than or equal to 50 micrometres or more 

in minimum dimension against the D-2 standard, at least 20 litres of influent water 

and l cubic metre of treated water, in triplicate respectively, should be collected. If samples 

are concentrated for enumeration, the samples should be concentrated using a sieve no 

greater than 50 micrometres mesh in the diagonal dimension. 

2.3.32 For the evaluation of organisms greater than or equal to 10 micrometres and less 

than 50 micrometres in minimum dimension, at least 1 litre of influent water and at 

least 10 litres of treated water should be collected. If samples are concentrated 

for enumeration, the samples should be concentrated using a sieve no greater 

than 10 micrometres mesh in the diagonal dimension. 

2.3.33 For the evaluation of bacteria, at least 500 millilitres of influent and treated water 

should be collected in sterile bottles. 

2.3.34 The samples should be analysed as soon as possible after sampling, and analysed live 

within 6 hours or treated in such a way so as to ensure that proper analysis can be performed. 

2.3.35 The efficacy of a proposed system should be tested by means of standard scientific 

methodology in the form of controlled experimentation, i.e. “experiments”. Specifically, the 

effect of the BWMS on organism concentration in ballast water should be tested by 

comparing treated ballast water, i.e. “treated groups”, to untreated “control groups”, 

such that: 

.1 one experiment should consist of a comparison between control water and treated 

water. Multiple samples, but at a minimum of three, of control and treated water 

within a single test cycle should be taken to obtain a good statistical estimate of 

the conditions within the water during that experiment. Multiple samples taken 

during a single test cycle should not be treated as independent measures in the 

statistical evaluation of treatment effect, to avoid “pseudo-replication”. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.3.36 If in any test cycle the average discharge results from the control water is a 

concentration less than or equal to 10 times the values in regulation D-2.1, the test cycle is 

invalid. 

2.3.37 Statistical analysis of BWMS performance should consist of t-tests, or similar statistical 

tests, comparing control and treated water. The comparison between control and treated water 

will provide a test of unexpected mortality in the control water, indicating the effect of an 

uncontrolled source of mortality in the testing arrangement. 

2.4 Reporting of test results 

2.4.1 After approval tests have been completed, a report should be submitted to 

the Administration. This report should include information regarding the test design, 

methods of analysis and the results of these analyses. 

2.4.2 The results of biological efficacy testing of the BWMS should be accepted if during the 

land-based and shipboard testing conducted as specified in sections 2.2 and 2.3 of this annex it is 

shown that the system has met the standard in regulation D-2 in all test cycles as provided in 

paragraph 4.7 below. 

PART 3 –- SPECIFICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING FOR APPROVAL 

OF BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

Test specifications 

3.1 The electrical and electronic sections of BWMS in the standard production 

configuration should be subjected to the programme of environmental tests set out in this 

specification at a laboratory approved for the purpose by the Administration or by the 

competent authority of the manufacturer’s home country. 

3.2 Evidence of successful compliance with the environmental tests below should be 

submitted to the Administration by the manufacturer together with the application for 

type approval. 

Test specification details 

3.3 Equipment should operate satisfactorily on completion of each of the operating 

environment tests listed below. 

Vibration tests 

3.4 A resonance search should be made over the following ranges of oscillation frequency 

and amplitude: 

.1 2 to 13.3 Hz with a vibration amplitude of 1 mm; and 

.2 13.2 to 80 Hz with an acceleration amplitude of 0.7 g. 

This search should be made in each of the three orthogonal planes at a rate sufficiently low to 

permit resonance detection. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 24 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3.5 The equipment should be vibrated in the above-mentioned planes at each major 

resonant frequency for a period of two hours. 

3.6 In the absence of any resonant frequency, the equipment should be vibrated in each of 

the planes at 30 Hz with an acceleration of 0.7 g for a period of two hours. 

3.7 After completion of the tests specified in paragraph 3.5 or 3.6 a search should again be 

made for resonance and there should be no significant change in the vibration pattern. 

Temperature tests 

3.8 Equipment that may be installed in exposed areas on the open deck, or in an enclosed 

space not environmentally controlled should be subjected, for a period of not less than 

two hours, to: 

.1 a low temperature test at -25°C; and 

.2 a high temperature test at 55°C. 

3.9 Equipment that may be installed in an enclosed space that is environmentally 

controlled including an engine-room should be subjected, for a period of not less than 

two hours, to: 

.1 a low temperature test at 0°C; and 

.2 a high temperature test at 55°C. 

3.10 At the end of each of the tests referred to in the subparagraphs above, the equipment 

should be switched on and it should function normally under the test conditions. 

Humidity tests 

3.11 Equipment should be left switched off for a period of two hours at a temperature 

of 55°C in an atmosphere with a relative humidity of 90%. At the end of this period, the 

equipment should be switched on and should operate satisfactorily for one hour under the test 

conditions. 

Tests for protection against heavy seas 

3.12 Equipment that may be installed in exposed areas on the open deck should be 

subjected to tests for protection against heavy seas in accordance with 1P 56 of 

publication IEC 529 or its equivalent. 

Fluctuation in power supply 

3.13 Equipment should operate satisfactorily with: 

.1 a voltage variation of +/- 10% together with a simultaneous frequency 

variation of +/- 5%; and 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 25 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.2 a transient voltage of +/- 20% together with a simultaneous frequency transient 

of +/- 10%, with a transient recovery time of three seconds. 

Inclination test 

3.14 The BWMS should be designed to operate when the ship is upright and when inclined 

at any angle of list up to and including 15° either way under static conditions and 22.5° under 

dynamic conditions (rolling) either way and simultaneously inclined dynamically 

(pitching) 7.5° by bow or stern. The Administration may permit deviation from these angles, 

taking into consideration the type, size and service conditions of the ship and operational 

functioning of the equipment. Any deviation permitted is to be documented in 

the Type Approval Certificate. 

Reliability of electrical and electronic equipment 

3.15 The electrical and electronic components of the equipment should be of a quality 

guaranteed by the manufacturer and suitable for their intended purpose. 

PART 4 – SAMPLE ANALYSIS METHODS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF 

BIOLOGICAL CONSTITUENTS IN BALLAST WATER 

Sample processing and analysis 

4.1 Samples taken during testing of BWMS are likely to contain a wide taxonomic diversity 

of organisms, varying greatly in size and susceptibilities to damage from sampling and analysis. 

4.2 When available, widely accepted standard methods for the collection, handling 

(including concentration), storage, and analysis of samples should be used. These methods 

should be clearly cited and described in test plans and reports. This includes methods for 

detecting, enumerating, and identifying organisms and for determining viability (as defined in 

these Guidelines). 

4.3 When standard methods are not available for particular organisms or taxonomic groups, 

methods that are developed for use should be described in detail in test plans and reports. 

The descriptive documentation should include any experiments needed to validate the use of 

the methods. 

4.4 Given the complexity in samples of natural and treated water, the required rarity of 

organisms in treated samples under regulation D-2, and the expense and time requirements of 

current standard methods, it is likely that several new approaches will be developed for the 

analyses of the composition, concentration, and viability of organisms in samples of ballast 

water. Administrations/Parties are encouraged to share information concerning methods for the 

analysis of ballast water samples, using existing scientific venues, and papers distributed through 

the Organization. 

Sample analysis for determining efficacy in meeting the discharge standard 

4.5 Sample analysis is meant to determine the species composition and the number of 

viable organisms in the sample. Different samples may be taken for determination of 

viability and for species composition. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 26 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4.6 Viability of an organism can be determined through live/dead judgement by 

appropriate methods including, but not limited to: morphological change, mobility, staining 

using vital dyes or molecular techniques. 

4.7 A treatment test cycle should be deemed successful if: 

.1 it is valid in accordance with paragraph 2.2.2.5 or 2.3.36 as appropriate; 

.2 the average density of organisms greater than or equal to 50 micrometres in 

minimum diameter in the replicate samples is less than 10 viable organisms per 

cubic metre; 

.3 the average density of organisms less than 50 micrometres and greater than or 

equal to 10 micrometres in minimum diameter in the replicate samples is less 

than 10 viable organisms per millilitre; 

.4 the average density of Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139) is less 

than 1 cfu per 100 millilitres, or less than 1 cfu per 1 gramme (wet weight) 

zooplankton samples; 

.5 the average density of E. coli in the replicate samples is less than 250 cfu 

per 100 millilitres; and 

.6 the average density of intestinal Enterococci in the replicate samples is less 

than 100 cfu per 100 millilitres. 

4.8 It is recommended that a non-exhaustive list of standard methods and innovative research 

techniques be considered7

. 

Sample analysis for determining eco-toxicological acceptability of discharge 

4.9 Toxicity tests of the treated water discharge should be conducted in accordance with 

paragraphs 5.2.3 to 5.2.7 of the Procedure for approval of ballast water management systems that 

make use of Active Substances, as revised (resolution MEPC.169(57)). 

 

7

 Suggested sources may include but not be limited to: 

.1 The Handbook of Standard Methods For the Analysis of Water and Waste Water. 

.2 ISO standard methods. 

.3 UNESCO standard methods. 

.4 World Health Organization. 

.5 American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard methods. 

.6 United States EPA standard methods. 

.7 Research papers published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. 

.8 MEPC documents. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 27 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 

BADGE OR CIPHER NAME OF ADMINISTRATION 

TYPE APPROVAL CERTIFICATE OF BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 

This is to certify that the ballast water management system listed below has been examined 

and tested in accordance with the requirements of the specifications contained in 

the Guidelines contained in IMO resolution MEPC...(..). This certificate is valid only for 

the ballast water management system referred to below. 

Ballast water management system supplied by .................................................................... 

under type and model designation ....................................................................................... 

and incorporating: 

Ballast water management system manufactured by ............................................................ 

to equipment/assembly drawing No. ............................................ date ............................... 

Other equipment manufactured by ....................................................................................... 

to equipment/assembly drawing No. ............................................ date ............................... 

Treatment rated capacity ............................................................ m3

/h 

A copy of this Type Approval Certificate, should be carried on board a vessel fitted with 

this ballast water management system at all times. A reference to the test protocol and a 

copy of the test results should be available for inspection on board the vessel. 

If the Type Approval Certificate is issued based on approval by another Administration, 

reference to that Type Approval Certificate shall be made. 

Limiting Conditions imposed are described in the appendix to this document. 

Official stamp Signed ..................................................................................... 

Administration of ..................................................................... 

Dated this ............... day of .................................... 20.......... 

Enc. Copy of the original test results. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 4 

Page 28 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Figure 1 Diagrammatic arrangement of possible land-based tests 

*** 

5

4

SOURCE

2

3

4

4

6

4 4

1. Pump 4. Sample tanks 

2. Feed Tank 5. Treatment System 

3. Feed Line 6. Simulated Ballast Water Tank 

5

6 6

SOURCE

2

4

4 4

In-tank

In Line

4

1

6

1 3
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 5 

Resolution MEPC.175(58) 

Adopted on 10 October 2008 

INFORMATION REPORTING ON 

TYPE APPROVED BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE, 

RECALLING Article 38(a) of the Convention on the International Maritime Organization 

concerning the functions of the Marine Environment Protection Committee conferred upon it by 

the international conventions for the prevention and control of marine pollution, 

RECALLING ALSO that the International Conference on Ballast Water Management 

for Ships held in February 2004 adopted the International Convention for the Control 

and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (the Ballast Water Management 

Convention) together with four Conference resolutions, 

RECALLING FURTHER that, on entry into force, the Ballast Water Management 

Convention will require ships to install ballast water management systems, which meet 

the D-2 standard stipulated therein, 

 RECOGNIZING that the collection and dissemination of accurate information on 

type-approved ballast water management systems (BWMS) will be beneficial for all interested 

stakeholders, 

 HAVING CONSIDERED the recommendation made by the Sub-Committee on Bulk 

Liquids and Gases at its twelfth session, 

1. INVITES Member States, when approving a ballast water management system in 

accordance with the Guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems (G8), to report 

the following information to the Organization: 

.1 approval date; 

.2 name of the Administration; 

.3 name of the BWMS; 

.4 a copy of the Type Approval Certificate and any enclosures, including a copy of, 

or details about access to, the results from land-based and shipboard testing and 

the procedures used, including ecotoxicological test results from ballast water 

management systems approved through Guidelines (G8); 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 5 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.5 a description of the Active Substance(s), if employed; and 

.6 identification of the specific MEPC report and paragraph number granting 

Final Approval in accordance with the Procedure for approval of ballast water 

management systems that make use of Active Substances (G9), adopted by 

resolution MEPC.169(57). 

2. INSTRUCTS the Secretariat to make such information available by an appropriate means. 

*** 
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 6 

DRAFT INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFE AND 

ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND RECYCLING OF SHIPS 

THE PARTIES TO THIS CONVENTION, 

 NOTING the growing concerns about safety, health, the environment and welfare matters 

in the ship recycling industry, 

 RECOGNIZING that recycling of ships contributes to sustainable development and, as 

such, is the best option for ships that have reached the end of their operating life, 

 RECALLING resolution A.962(23), adopted by the Assembly of the International 

Maritime Organization (Guidelines on Ship Recycling); amendments to the Guidelines adopted 

by resolution A.980(24); Decision VI/24 of the Sixth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to 

the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and 

their Disposal, which adopted Technical Guidelines for the Environmentally Sound Management 

of the Full and Partial Dismantling of Ships; and the Guidelines approved by the 289th session of 

the Governing Body of the International Labour Office (Safety and Health in Shipbreaking: 

Guidelines for Asian countries and Turkey), 

 RECALLING ALSO resolution A.981(24), by which the Assembly of the International 

Maritime Organization requested the Organization’s Marine Environment Protection Committee 

to develop a legally-binding instrument on ship recycling, 

 NOTING ALSO the role of the International Labour Organization in protecting the 

occupational safety and health of workers involved in ship recycling, 

 NOTING FURTHER the role of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary 

Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal in protecting human health and the 

environment against the adverse effects which may result from such wastes, 

 MINDFUL of the precautionary approach set out in Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration 

on Environment and Development and referred to in resolution MEPC.67(37), adopted by the 

Organization’s Marine Environment Protection Committee on 15 September 1995, 

 MINDFUL ALSO of the need to promote the substitution of hazardous materials in the 

construction and maintenance of ships by less hazardous, or preferably, non-hazardous materials, 

without compromising the ships’ safety, the safety and health of seafarers and the ships’ 

operational efficiency, 

 RESOLVED to effectively address, in a legally-binding instrument, the environmental, 

occupational health and safety risks related to ship recycling, taking into account the particular 

characteristics of maritime transport and the need to secure the smooth withdrawal of ships that 

have reached the end of their operating lives, 

 CONSIDERING that these objectives may best be achieved by the conclusion of an 

International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

HAVE AGREED as follows: 

ARTICLE 1 

General obligations

1 Each Party to this Convention undertakes to give full and complete effect to its provisions 

in order to prevent, reduce, minimize and, to the extent practicable, eliminate accidents, injuries 

and other adverse effects on human health and the environment caused by Ship Recycling, and 

enhance ship safety, protection of human health and the environment throughout a ship’s 

operating life. 

2 No provision of this Convention shall be interpreted as preventing a Party from taking, 

individually or jointly, more stringent measures consistent with international law with respect to 

safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships in order to prevent, reduce or minimize any 

adverse effects on human health and the environment. 

3 Parties shall endeavour to co-operate for the purpose of effective implementation, 

compliance and enforcement of this Convention. 

4 The Parties undertake to encourage the continued development of technologies and 

practices which will contribute to safe and environmentally sound Ship Recycling. 

5 The Annex to this Convention forms an integral part of it. Unless expressly provided for 

otherwise, a reference to this Convention constitutes at the same time a reference to its Annex. 

ARTICLE 2 

Definitions 

For the purposes of this Convention, unless expressly provided otherwise: 

1 “Administration” means the Government of the State whose flag the ship is entitled to fly, 

or under whose authority it is operating. 

2 “Committee” means the Marine Environment Protection Committee of the Organization. 

3 “Competent Authority(ies)” means a governmental authority or authorities designated by 

a Party as responsible, within specified geographical area(s) or area(s) of expertise, for duties 

related to Ship Recycling Facilities operating within the jurisdiction of that Party as specified in 

this Convention. 

4 “Convention” means the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally 

Sound Recycling of Ships. 

5 “Gross tonnage” means the gross tonnage (GT) calculated in accordance with the tonnage 

measurement regulations contained in Annex I to the International Convention on Tonnage 

Measurement of Ships, 1969 or any successor Convention. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

6 “Hazardous Material” means any material or substance which is liable to create hazards 

to human health and/or the environment. 

7 “Organization” means the International Maritime Organization. 

8 “Recycling Company” means the owner of the Ship Recycling Facility or any other 

organization or person who has assumed the responsibility for operation of the Ship Recycling 

activity from the owner of the Ship Recycling Facility and who on assuming such responsibility 

has agreed to take over all duties and responsibilities imposed by this Convention. 

9 “Secretary-General” means the Secretary-General of the Organization. 

10 “Ship” means a vessel of any type whatsoever operating or having operated in the marine 

environment and includes submersibles, floating craft, floating platforms, self elevating 

platforms, Floating Storage Units (FSUs), and Floating Production Storage and Offloading Units 

(FPSOs), including a vessel stripped of equipment or being towed. 

11 “Ship Recycling” means the activity of complete or partial dismantling of a ship at a Ship 

Recycling Facility in order to recover components and materials for reprocessing and re-use, 

whilst taking care of hazardous and other materials, and includes associated operations such as 

storage and treatment of components and materials on site, but not their further processing or 

disposal in separate Ship Recycling Facilities. 

12 “Ship Recycling Facility” means a defined area that is a site, yard or facility used for the 

recycling of ships. 

ARTICLE 3 

Application 

1 Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Convention, this Convention shall apply to: 

.1 ships entitled to fly the flag of a Party or operating under its authority; 

.2 Ship Recycling Facilities operating under the jurisdiction of a Party. 

2 This Convention shall not apply to any warships, naval auxiliary, or other ships owned or 

operated by a Party and used, for the time being, only on government non-commercial service. 

However, each Party shall ensure, by the adoption of appropriate measures not impairing 

operations or operational capabilities of such ships owned or operated by it, that such ships act in 

a manner consistent, so far as is reasonable and practicable, with this Convention. 

3 This Convention shall not apply to ships of less than 500 GT or to ships operating 

throughout their life only in waters subject to the sovereignty or jurisdiction of the State whose 

flag the ship is entitled to fly. However, each Party shall ensure, by the adoption of appropriate 

measures, that such ships act in a manner consistent with this Convention, so far as is reasonable 

and practicable. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 4 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4 With respect to ships entitled to fly the flag of non-Parties to this Convention, Parties 

shall apply the requirements of this Convention as may be necessary to ensure that no more 

favourable treatment is given to such ships. 

ARTICLE 4 

Controls related to Ship Recycling 

1 Each Party shall require that ships entitled to fly its flag or operating under its authority 

comply with the requirements set forth in this Convention and shall take effective measures to 

ensure such compliance. 

2 Each Party shall require that Ship Recycling Facilities under its jurisdiction comply with 

the requirements set forth in this Convention and shall take effective measures to ensure such 

compliance. 

ARTICLE 5 

Survey and certification of ships 

Each Party shall ensure that ships flying its flag or operating under its authority and subject to 

survey and certification are surveyed and certified in accordance with the regulations in the 

Annex.

ARTICLE 6 

Authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities 

Each Party shall ensure that Ship Recycling Facilities that operate under its jurisdiction and that 

recycle ships to which this Convention applies, or ships treated similarly pursuant to Article 3.4 

of this Convention, are authorized in accordance with the regulations in the Annex. 

ARTICLE 7 

Exchange of information 

For the Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party, such Party shall provide to the 

Organization if requested and those Parties which request it, relevant information, in regard to 

this Convention, on which its decision for authorization was based. The information shall be 

exchanged in a swift and timely manner. 

ARTICLE 8 

Inspection of ships 

1 A ship to which this Convention applies may, in any port or offshore terminal of another 

Party, be subject to inspection by officers duly authorized by that Party for the purpose of 

determining whether the ship is in compliance with this Convention. Except as provided in 

paragraph 2, any such inspection is limited to verifying that there is onboard either an 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 5 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials, or an International Ready for 

Recycling Certificate, which, if valid, shall be accepted. 

2 Where a ship does not carry a valid certificate or there are clear grounds for 

believing that: 

.1 the condition of the ship or its equipment does not correspond substantially with 

the particulars of the certificate, and/or the Inventory of Hazardous Materials 

Part I; or 

 .2 there is no procedure implemented on board the ship for the maintenance of the 

inventory of Hazardous Materials Part I, 

a detailed inspection may be carried out taking into account guidelines developed by the 

Organization. 

ARTICLE 9 

Detection of violations 

1 Parties shall co-operate in the detection of violations and the enforcement of the 

provisions of this Convention. 

2 When there is sufficient evidence that a ship is operating, has operated or is about to 

operate in violation of a provision in this Convention, a Party holding the evidence may request 

an investigation of this ship when it enters the ports or offshore terminals under the jurisdiction 

of another Party. The report of such an investigation shall be sent to the Party requesting it and 

to the Administration of the ship concerned so that appropriate action may be taken. 

3 If the ship is detected to be in violation of this Convention, the Party carrying out the 

inspection may take steps to warn, detain, dismiss, or exclude the ship from its ports. A Party 

taking such action shall immediately inform the Administration of the ship concerned and the 

Organization. 

4 If a request for an investigation is received from any Party, together with sufficient 

evidence that a Ship Recycling Facility is operating, has operated or is about to operate in 

violation of any provision of this Convention, a Party should investigate this Ship Recycling 

Facility operating under its jurisdiction and make a report. The report of any such investigation 

shall be sent to the Party requesting it, including information on the appropriate action taken, or 

to be taken, if any. 

ARTICLE 10 

Violations 

1 Any violation of the requirements of this Convention shall be prohibited by national laws 

and: 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 6 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 in the case of a ship concerned, sanctions shall be established under the law of the 

Administration, wherever the violation occurs. If the Administration is informed 

of such a violation, by a Party, it shall investigate the matter and may request the 

reporting Party to furnish additional evidence of the alleged violation. If the 

Administration is satisfied that sufficient evidence is available to enable 

proceedings to be brought in respect of the alleged violation, it shall cause such 

proceedings to be taken as soon as possible, in accordance with its law. 

The Administration shall promptly inform the Party that reported the alleged 

violation, as well as the Organization, of any action taken. If the Administration 

has not taken any action within one year after receiving the information, it shall so 

inform the Party which reported the alleged violation, and the Organization, of the 

reasons why no action has been taken; 

.2 in the case of a Ship Recycling Facility concerned, sanctions shall be established 

under the law of the Party having jurisdiction over the Ship Recycling Facility. 

If the Party is informed of such a violation by another Party, it shall investigate the 

matter and may request the reporting Party to furnish additional evidence of the 

alleged violation. If the Party is satisfied that sufficient evidence is available to 

enable proceedings to be brought in respect of the alleged violation, it shall cause 

such proceedings to be taken as soon as possible, in accordance with its law. 

The Party shall promptly inform the Party that reported the alleged violation, as 

well as the Organization, of any action taken. If the Party has not taken any action 

within one year after receiving the information, it shall inform the Party which 

reported the alleged violation, and the Organization, of the reasons why no action 

has been taken. 

2 Any violation of the requirements of this Convention within the jurisdiction of any Party 

shall be prohibited and sanctions shall be established under the law of that Party. Whenever such 

a violation occurs, that Party shall either: 

.1 cause proceedings to be taken in accordance with its law; or 

.2 furnish to the Administration of the ship such information and evidence as may be 

in its possession that a violation has occurred. 

3 The sanctions provided for by the laws of a Party pursuant to this Article shall be 

adequate in severity to discourage violations of this Convention wherever they occur. 

ARTICLE 11 

Undue delay or detention of ships

1 All possible efforts shall be made to avoid a ship being unduly detained or delayed under 

Article 8, 9 or 10 of this Convention. 

2 When a ship is unduly detained or delayed under Article 8,9 or 10 of this Convention, it 

shall be entitled to compensation for any loss or damage suffered. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 7 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ARTICLE 12 

Communication of information 

Each Party shall report to the Organization and the Organization shall disseminate, as 

appropriate, the following information: 

.1 a list of Ship Recycling Facilities authorized in accordance with this Convention 

and operating under the jurisdiction of that Party; 

.2 contact details for the Competent Authority(ies), including a contact point, of that 

Party; 

.3 a list of the recognized organizations and nominated surveyors which are 

authorized to act on behalf of that Party in the administration of matters relating to 

the control of Ship Recycling in accordance with this Convention, and the specific 

responsibilities and conditions of the authority delegated to the nominated 

surveyors or recognized organizations; 

.4 an annual list of ships recycled within the jurisdiction of that Party; 

.5 an annual list of ships flying the flag of that Party, deregistered in order to be 

recycled and the Recycling Company name and location of the Ship Recycling 

Facility where the recycling was undertaken and completed; 

.6 information concerning violations of this Convention; and 

.7 actions taken towards ships and Ship Recycling Facilities under the juridiction of 

that Party. 

ARTICLE 13 

Technical assistance and co-operation 

1 Parties undertake, directly or through the Organization and other international bodies, as 

appropriate, in respect of the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships, to provide 

support for those Parties which request technical assistance: 

 .1 to train personnel; 

 .2 to ensure the availability of relevant technology, equipment and facilities; 

 .3 to initiate joint research and development programmes; and 

.4 to undertake other actions aimed at the effective implementation of this 

Convention and of guidelines developed by the Organization related thereto. 

2 Parties undertake to co-operate actively, subject to their national laws, regulations and 

policies, in the transfer of management systems and technology in respect of the safe and 

environmentally sound recycling of ships. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 8 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ARTICLE 14 

Dispute settlement 

Parties shall settle any dispute between them concerning the interpretation or application of this 

Convention by negotiation or any other peaceful means agreed upon [by them], which may 

include enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, or resort to regional 

agencies or arrangements. 

ARTICLE 15 

Relationship with international law and other international agreements 

1 Nothing in this Convention shall prejudice the rights and obligations of any State under 

the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 1982, and under the customary 

international law of the sea. 

2 Nothing in this Convention shall prejudice the rights and responsibilities of Parties under 

other relevant and applicable international agreements. 

ARTICLE 16 

Signature, ratification, acceptance, approval and accession 

1 This Convention shall be open for signature by any State at the Headquarters of the 

Organization from [date 20xx to date 20xx] and shall thereafter remain open for accession by 

any State. 

2 States may become Parties to this Convention by: 

.1 signature not subject to ratification, acceptance, or approval; or 

.2 signature subject to ratification, acceptance, or approval, followed by ratification, 

acceptance or approval; or 

.3 accession.

3 Ratification, acceptance, approval or accession shall be effected by the deposit of an 

instrument to that effect with the Secretary-General. 

4 If a State comprises two or more territorial units in which different systems of law are 

applicable in relation to matters dealt with in this Convention, it may at the time of signature, 

ratification, acceptance, approval, or accession declare that this Convention shall extend to all its 

territorial units or only to one or more of them and may modify this declaration by submitting 

another declaration at any time. 

5 A declaration under paragraph 4 shall be notified to the Secretary-General in writing and 

shall state expressly the territorial unit or units to which this Convention applies. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 9 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

6 A State at the time it expresses its consent to be bound by this Convention, or thereafter 

by notification to the Secretary-General, may declare that it shall not require approval of a 

specific Ship Recycling Plan before a ship may be recycled in its authorized Ship Recycling 

Facility(ies). 

ARTICLE 17 

Entry into force 

[1 This Convention shall enter into force [ ] months after the date on which not less than [ ] 

States, the combined merchant fleets of which constitute not less than [ ] per cent of the gross 

tonnage of the world’s merchant shipping, [and the Ship Recycling capacity criterion], have 

either signed it without reservation as to ratification, acceptance or approval, or have deposited 

the requisite instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession in accordance with 

Article 16. 

2 For States which have deposited an instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or 

accession in respect of this Convention after the requirements for entry into force thereof have 

been met, but prior to the date of entry into force, the ratification, acceptance, approval or 

accession shall take effect on the date of entry into force of this Convention, or three months after 

the date of deposit of the instrument, whichever is the later date. 

3 Any instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession deposited after the date 

on which this Convention enters into force shall take effect three months after the date of deposit. 

4 After the date on which an amendment to this Convention is deemed to have been 

accepted under Article 18, any instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession 

deposited shall apply to this Convention, as amended.] 

ARTICLE 18 

Amendments 

1 This Convention may be amended by either of the procedures specified in the 

following paragraphs. 

2 Amendments after consideration within the Organization: 

.1 Any Party may propose an amendment to this Convention. A proposed 

amendment shall be submitted to the Secretary-General, who shall then circulate it 

to the Parties and Members of the Organization at least six months prior to its 

consideration. 

.2 An amendment proposed and circulated as above shall be referred to the 

Committee for consideration. Parties, whether or not Members of the 

Organization, shall be entitled to participate in the proceedings of the Committee 

for consideration and adoption of the amendment. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 10 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.3 Amendments shall be adopted by a two-thirds majority of the Parties present and 

voting in the Committee, on condition that at least one-third of the Parties shall be 

present at the time of voting. 

.4 Amendments adopted in accordance with subparagraph 3 shall be communicated 

by the Secretary-General to the Parties for acceptance. 

.5 An amendment shall be deemed to have been accepted in the following 

circumstances: 

.5.1 An amendment to an article of this Convention shall be deemed to have 

been accepted on the date on which two-thirds of the Parties have notified 

the Secretary-General of their acceptance of it. 

.5.2 An amendment to the Annex shall be deemed to have been accepted at the 

end of a period to be determined by the Committee at the time of its 

adoption, which period shall not be less than ten months after the date of 

adoption. However, if by that date more than one-third of the Parties 

notify the Secretary-General that they object to the amendment, it shall be 

deemed not to have been accepted. 

.6 An amendment shall enter into force under the following conditions: 

 

.6.1 An amendment to an article of this Convention shall enter into force, for 

those Parties that have declared that they have accepted it, six months after 

the date on which it is deemed to have been accepted in accordance with 

subparagraph .5.1. 

.6.2 An amendment to the Annex shall enter into force with respect to all 

Parties six months after the date on which it is deemed to have been 

accepted, except for any Party that has: 

.6.2.1 notified its objection to the amendment in accordance with 

subparagraph .5.2 and that has not withdrawn such objection; or 

.6.2.2 notified the Secretary-General, prior to the entry into force of such 

amendment, that the amendment shall enter into force for it only 

after a subsequent notification of its acceptance. 

.6.3 A Party that has notified an objection under subparagraph .6.2.1 may 

subsequently notify the Secretary-General that it accepts the amendment. 

Such amendment shall enter into force for such Party six months after the 

date of its notification of acceptance, or the date on which the amendment 

enters into force, whichever is the later date. 

 

.6.4 If a Party that has made a notification referred to in subparagraph .6.2.2 

notifies the Secretary-General of its acceptance with respect to an 

amendment, such amendment shall enter into force for such Party six 

months after the date of its notification of acceptance, or the date on which 

the amendment enters into force, whichever is the later date. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 11 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3 Amendment by a Conference: 

.1 Upon the request of a Party concurred in by at least one-third of the Parties, the 

Organization shall convene a Conference of Parties to consider amendments to 

this Convention. 

.2 An amendment adopted by such a Conference by a two-thirds majority of the 

Parties present and voting shall be communicated by the Secretary-General to all 

Parties for acceptance. 

.3 Unless the Conference decides otherwise, the amendment shall be deemed to have 

been accepted and shall enter into force in accordance with the procedures 

specified in paragraphs 2.5 and 2.6 respectively. 

4 Any Party that has declined to accept an amendment to the Annex shall be treated as a 

non-Party only for the purpose of application of that amendment. 

5 Any notification under this Article shall be made in writing to the Secretary-General. 

6 The Secretary-General shall inform the Parties and Members of the Organization of: 

.1 any amendment that enters into force and the date of its entry into force generally 

and for each Party; and 

.2 any notification made under this Article. 

ARTICLE 19 

Denunciation 

1 This Convention may be denounced by any Party at any time after the expiry of two years 

from the date on which this Convention enters into force for that Party. 

2 Denunciation shall be effected by written notification to the Secretary-General, to take 

effect one year after receipt or such longer period as may be specified in that notification. 

ARTICLE 20 

Depositary 

1 This Convention shall be deposited with the Secretary-General, who shall transmit 

certified copies of this Convention to all States which have signed this Convention or acceded 

thereto. 

2 In addition to the functions specified elsewhere in this Convention, the Secretary-General 

shall: 

.1 inform all States that have signed this Convention, or acceded thereto, of: 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 12 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1.1 each new signature or deposit of an instrument of ratification, acceptance, 

approval or accession, together with the date thereof; 

.1.2 the date of entry into force of this Convention; 

.1.3 the deposit of any instrument of denunciation from this Convention, 

together with the date on which it was received and the date on which the 

denunciation takes effect; and 

.1.4 other declarations and notifications received pursuant to this Convention; 

and 

.2 as soon as this Convention enters into force, transmit the text thereof to the 

Secretariat of the United Nations, for registration and publication in accordance 

with Article 102 of the Charter of the United Nations. 

ARTICLE 21 

Languages 

This Convention is established in a single original in the Arabic, Chinese, English, French, 

Russian and Spanish languages, each text being equally authentic. 

DONE AT HONG KONG, CHINA, this [DD/MM/YYYY]

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned, being duly authorized by their respective 

Governments for that purpose, have signed this Convention. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 13 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 

REGULATIONS FOR SAFE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND 

RECYCLING OF SHIPS 

CHAPTER 1 – GENERAL PROVISIONS 

Regulation 1 Definitions 

For the purposes of this Annex: 

1 “Competent person” means a person with suitable qualifications, training, and sufficient 

knowledge, experience and skill, for the performance of the specific work. Specifically, a 

Competent person may be a trained worker or a managerial employee capable of recognizing 

and evaluating occupational hazards, risks, and employee exposure to potentially Hazardous 

Materials or unsafe conditions in a Ship Recycling Facility, and who is capable of specifying the 

necessary protection and precautions to be taken to eliminate or reduce those hazards, risks, or 

exposures. The Competent Authority may define appropriate criteria for the designation of such 

persons and may determine the duties to be assigned to them. 

2 “Employer” means a natural or legal person that employs one or more workers engaged in 

Ship Recycling. 

3 “Existing ship” means a ship which is not a new ship. 

4 “Gas-free-for-hot-works condition” means a safe, non explosive condition for work 

requiring the use of electric arc or gas welding equipment, cutting burning equipment or other 

forms of naked flame, as well as heating or spark generating tools. 

5 “New ship” means a ship: 

.1 for which the building contract is placed on or after the entry into force of this 

Convention; or 

.2 in the absence of a building contract, the keel of which is laid or which is at a 

similar stage of construction on or after six months after the entry into force of 

this Convention; or 

.3 the delivery of which is on or after 30 months after the entry into force of this 

Convention. 

6 “New installation” means the installation of systems, equipment, insulation, or other 

material on a ship after the date on which this Convention enters into force. 

7 “Shipowner” means the person or persons or company registered as the owner of the ship 

or, in the absence of registration, the person or persons or company owning the ship or any other 

organization or person such as the manager, or the bareboat charterer, who has assumed the 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 14 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

responsibility for operation of the ship from the owner of the ship. However, in the case of a ship 

owned by a State and operated by a company which in that State is registered as the ship’s 

operator, “owner” shall mean such company. This term also includes those who have ownership 

of the ship for a limited period pending its sale or handing over to a Ship Recycling Facility. 

8 ”Site inspection” means an inspection of the Ship Recycling Facility confirming the 

condition described by the verified documentation. 

9 ”Statement of Completion” means a confirmatory statement issued by the Ship Recycling 

Facility that the Ship Recycling has been completed in accordance with this Convention. 

10 “Worker” means any person who performs work, either regularly or temporarily, in the 

context of an employment relationship including contractor personnel. 

Regulation 2 General applicability 

Unless expressly provided otherwise, the design, construction, operation and recycling of ships 

shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of this Annex.

Regulation 3 Relationship with other standards, recommendations and guidance 

Parties shall take measures to implement the requirements of the regulations of this Annex, 

taking into account relevant and applicable standards, recommendations and guidance developed 

by the International Labour Organization and the relevant and applicable technical standards, 

recommendations and guidance developed under the Basel Convention. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 15 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

CHAPTER 2 – REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPS 

Part A – Design, construction, operation and maintenance of ships

Regulation 4 Controls of ships’ Hazardous Materials 

In accordance with the requirements specified in Appendix 1 to this Convention each Party: 

.1 shall prohibit and/or restrict the installation or use of Hazardous Materials listed in 

Appendix 1 on ships entitled to fly its flag or operating under its authority; and 

.2 shall prohibit and/or restrict the installation or use of such materials on ships, 

whilst in its ports, shipyards, ship repair yards, or offshore terminals, 

and shall take effective measures to ensure that such ships comply with those requirements. 

Regulation 5 Inventory of Hazardous Materials 

1 Each new ship shall have onboard an Inventory of Hazardous Materials. The Inventory 

shall be verified either by the Administration or by any person or organization authorized by it

taking into account guidelines developed by the Organization. The Inventory of Hazardous 

Materials shall be specific to each ship and shall at least: 

.1 identify as Part I, Hazardous Materials listed in Appendices 1 and 2 to this 

Convention and contained in ship’s structure and equipment, their location and 

approximate quantities; and

.2 clarify that the ship complies with regulation 4. 

2 Existing ships shall comply as far as practicable with paragraph 1 not later than 5 years

after the entry into force of this Convention, or before going for recycling if this is earlier, taking 

into account the guidelines developed by the Organization and the Organization’s Harmonized 

System of Survey and Certification. The Hazardous Materials listed in Appendix 1, at least, shall 

be identified when the Inventory is developed. For existing ships a plan shall be prepared 

describing the visual/sampling check by which the Inventory of Hazardous Materials is 

developed, taking into account the guidelines developed by the Organization. 

3 Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials shall be properly maintained and updated 

throughout the operational life of the ship, reflecting new installations containing Hazardous 

Materials listed in Appendix 2 and relevant changes in ship structure and equipment, taking into 

account the guidelines developed by the Organization. 

 

4 Prior to recycling the Inventory shall, in addition to the properly maintained and updated 

Part I, incorporate Part II for operationally generated wastes, and Part III for stores and be 

verified either by the Administration or by any person or organization authorized by it, taking 

into account the guidelines developed by the Organization. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 16 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Regulation 6 Procedure for proposing amendments to Appendices 1 and 2 

1 Any Party may propose an amendment to Appendix 1 and/or Appendix 2 in accordance 

with this regulation. The proposed amendment shall be considered within the Organization under 

Article 18 paragraph 2 and this regulation. 

2 When the Organization receives a proposal, it shall also bring the proposal to the attention 

of the United Nations and its Specialized Agencies, intergovernmental organizations having 

agreements with the Organization and non-governmental organizations in consultative status with 

the Organization and shall make it available to them. 

3 The Committee shall establish a technical group in accordance with regulation 7 to 

review proposals submitted in accordance with paragraph 1 of this regulation. 

4 The technical group shall review the proposal along with any additional data, including 

decisions adopted by other international bodies regarding their lists of materials or hazardous 

substances, submitted by any interested entity and shall evaluate and report to the Committee

whether the Hazardous Material in question is likely, in the context of this Convention, to lead to 

significant adverse effects on human health or the environment such that the amendment of 

Appendix 1 or Appendix 2 is warranted. In this regard: 

.1 The technical group’s review shall include: 

.1.1 an evaluation of the association between the Hazardous Material in 

question and the likelihood, in the context of this Convention, to lead to 

significant adverse effects on human health or the environment based on 

the submitted data or other relevant data brought to the attention of the 

group; 

.1.2 an evaluation of the potential risk reduction attributable to the proposed 

control measures and any other control measures that may be considered 

by the technical group; 

.1.3 consideration of available information on the technical feasibility of 

control measures; 

.1.4 consideration of available information on other effects arising from the 

introduction of such control measures relating to: 

- the environment; 

- human health and safety including that of seafarers and workers; and 

- the cost to international shipping and other relevant sectors. 

.1.5 consideration of the availability of suitable alternatives to the Hazardous 

Material to be controlled, including a consideration of the potential risks of 

alternatives; 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 17 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1.6 consideration of the risks posed by the Hazardous Material during the 

recycling process; and 

.1.7 consideration of suitable threshold values and any useful or necessary 

exemptions. 

.2 If the technical group finds that the Hazardous Material in question is likely, in the 

context of this Convention, to lead to significant adverse effects on human health 

or the environment, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason to 

prevent the group from proceeding with an evaluation of the proposal. 

.3 The technical group’s report shall be in writing and shall take into account each of 

the evaluations and considerations referred to in subparagraph .1, except that the 

technical group may decide not to proceed with the evaluations and considerations 

described in subparagraph .1.2 through .1.7 if it determines after the evaluation in 

subparagraph .1.1 that the proposal does not warrant further consideration. 

.4 The technical group’s report shall include, inter alia, a recommendation on 

whether international controls pursuant to this Convention are warranted on the 

Hazardous Material in question, on the suitability of the specific control measures 

suggested in the comprehensive proposal, or on other control measures which it 

believes to be more suitable. 

5 The Committee shall decide whether to approve any proposal to amend Appendix 1 or 

Appendix 2, and any modifications thereto, if appropriate, taking into account the technical 

group’s report. Any proposed amendment shall specify the application of the amendment for 

ships certified in accordance with this Convention before the entry into force of the amendment. 

If the report finds that the Hazardous Material in question is likely, in the context of this 

Convention, to lead to significant adverse effects on human health or the environment, lack of 

full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason to prevent a decision from being taken to list 

a Hazardous Material in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2. A decision not to approve the proposal 

shall not preclude future submission of a new proposal with respect to a particular Hazardous 

Material if new information comes to light. 

Regulation 7 Technical Groups

1 The Committee may establish one or more technical groups pursuant to regulation 6 as 

needed. The technical group may comprize representatives of the Parties, Members of the 

Organization, the United Nations and its Specialized Agencies, intergovernmental organizations 

having agreements with the Organization, and non-governmental organizations in consultative 

status with the Organization, which should preferably include representatives of institutions and 

laboratories with expertise in environmental fate and effects of substances, toxicological effects, 

marine biology, human health, economic analysis, risk management, shipbuilding, international 

shipping, occupational health and safety or other fields of expertise necessary to objectively 

review the technical merits of a proposal. 

2 The Committee shall decide on the terms of reference, organization, participation and 

operation of the technical groups. Such terms shall provide for protection of any confidential 

information that may be submitted. Technical groups may hold such meetings as required, but 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 18 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

shall endeavour to conduct their work through written or electronic correspondence or other 

media as appropriate. 

3 Only the representatives of Parties may participate in formulating any recommendation to 

the Committee pursuant to regulation 6. A technical group shall endeavour to achieve unanimity 

among the representatives of the Parties. If unanimity is not possible, the technical group shall 

communicate any minority views of such representatives. 

Part B – Preparation for Ship Recycling 

Regulation 8 General requirements 

Ships destined to be recycled shall: 

.1 only be recycled at Ship Recycling Facilities that are authorized in accordance 

with this Convention; 

.2 conduct operations in the period prior to entering the Ship Recycling Facility in 

order to minimize the amount of cargo residues, remaining fuel oil, and wastes 

remaining on board; 

.3 provide to the Ship Recycling Facility all available information relating to the ship 

for the development of the Ship Recycling Plan required by regulation 9; 

.4 complete the Inventory required by regulation 5; and 

.5 be certified as ready for recycling by the Administration or organization 

recognized by it, prior to any recycling activity taking place. 

Regulation 9 Ship Recycling Plan 

A ship specific Ship Recycling Plan shall be developed by the Ship Recycling Facility(ies) prior 

to any recycling of a ship, taking into account the guidelines developed by the Organization. The 

Ship Recycling Plan shall: 

.1 be developed in consultation with the shipowner; 

.2 be developed in the language accepted by the Party authorizing the Ship 

Recycling Facility, and if the language used is neither English, French nor 

Spanish, the Ship Recycling Plan shall be translated into one of these languages, 

except where the Administration is satisfied that this is not necessary; 

.3 include information concerning inter alia, gas-free-for-hot-work and how the type 

and amount of materials including those identified in the Inventory of Hazardous 

Materials will be managed; 

.4 unless a Party has made a declaration pursuant to Article 16.6, be approved by the 

Competent Authority(ies) authorizing the Ship Recycling Facility. Approval of the 

Ship Recycling Plan will be deemed to have been given in circumstances where 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 19 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

no written objection to the Ship Recycling Plan has been issued 14 days after the 

Competent Authority(ies) of the recycling State(s) has received the notification in 

accordance with regulation 24; 

.5 once approved in accordance with paragraph .4, be made available for inspection 

by the Administration, or any nominated surveyors or organization recognized by 

it; and 

.6 where more than one Ship Recycling Facility is used, identify the Ship Recycling 

Facilities to be used and specify the recycling activities and the order in which 

they occur at each authorized Ship Recycling Facility. 

Part C – Surveys and certification 

Regulation 10 Surveys 

1 Ships to which this Convention applies shall be subject to the surveys specified below: 

.1 an initial survey before the ship is put in service, or before the International 

Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials is issued. This survey shall verify 

that Part I of the Inventory required by regulation 5 is in accordance with the 

requirements of this Convention; 

.2 a renewal survey at intervals specified by the Administration, but not exceeding 

five years. This survey shall verify that Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous 

Materials required by regulation 5, complies with the requirements of this 

Convention; 

.3 an additional survey, either general or partial, according to the circumstances, may 

be made at the request of the shipowner after a change, replacement, or significant 

repair of the structure, equipment, systems, fittings, arrangements and material. 

The survey shall be such as to ensure that any such change, replacement, or 

significant repair has been made in the way that the ship continues complying 

with the requirements of this Convention, and that Part I of the Inventory is 

amended as necessary; and 

.4 a final survey prior to the ship being taken out of service and before the recycling 

of the ship has started. This survey shall verify: 

.1 that the Inventory of Hazardous Materials as required by regulation 5.4 is 

in accordance with the requirements of this Convention taking into account 

the guidelines developed by the Organization; and 

.2 that the Ship Recycling Plan developed by the Ship Recycling Facility(ies) 

[complies with the requirements of this Convention], and, unless a Party 

has made a declaration pursuant to Article 16.6, has been approved by the 

Competent Authority(ies). 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 20 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2 Surveys of ships for the purpose of enforcement of the provisions of this Convention shall 

be carried out by officers of the Administration, taking into account the guidelines developed by 

the Organization. The Administration may, however, entrust the surveys either to surveyors 

nominated for the purpose or to organizations recognized by it.

3 An Administration nominating surveyors or recognizing organizations to conduct 

surveys, as described in paragraph 2 shall, as a minimum, empower such nominated surveyors or 

recognized organizations to:

.1 require a ship that they survey to comply with the provisions of this Convention; 

and 

.2 carry out surveys and inspections if requested by the appropriate authorities of a 

port State that is a Party. 

4 In every case, the Administration concerned shall be responsible to ensure the 

completeness and efficiency of the survey and shall undertake to ensure the necessary 

arrangements to satisfy this obligation. 

5 The initial and renewal surveys should be harmonized with the surveys required by other 

applicable statutory instruments of the Organization. 

Regulation 11 Issuance and endorsement of certificates 

1 An International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials shall be issued either by 

the Administration or by any person or organization authorized by it after successful completion 

of an initial or renewal survey conducted in accordance with regulation 10, to any ships to which 

regulation 10 applies, except for existing ships for which both an initial survey and a final survey 

are conducted at the same time, taking into account the guidelines developed by the 

Organization. 

2 The International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials issued under 

paragraph 1, at the request of the shipowner, shall be endorsed either by the Administration or by 

any person or organization authorized by it after successful completion of an additional survey 

conducted in accordance with regulation 10. 

3 Notwithstanding the requirements of regulation 10.1.2, when the renewal survey is 

completed within three months before the expiry date of the existing certificate, the new 

certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of the renewal survey to a date not 

exceeding five years from the date of expiry of the existing certificate. 

4 When the renewal survey is completed after the expiry date of the existing certificate, the 

new certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of the renewal survey to a date not 

exceeding five years from the date of expiry of the existing certificate. 

5 When the renewal survey is completed more than three months before the expiry date of 

the existing certificate, the new certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of the 

renewal survey to a date not exceeding five years from the date of completion of the renewal 

survey. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 21 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

6 If a certificate is issued for a period of less than five years, the Administration may extend 

the validity of the certificate beyond the expiry date to the maximum period specified in 

regulation 10.1.2. 

7 If a renewal survey has been completed and a new certificate cannot be issued or placed 

on board the ship before the expiry date of the existing certificate, the person or organization 

authorized by the Administration may endorse the existing certificate and such a certificate shall 

be accepted as valid for a further period which shall not exceed five months from the expiry date. 

8 If a ship at the time when a certificate expires is not in a port in which it is to be surveyed, 

the Administration may extend the period of validity of the certificate but this extension shall be 

granted only for the purpose of allowing the ship to complete its voyage to the port in which it is 

to be surveyed and then only in cases where it appears proper and reasonable to do so. 

No certificate shall be extended for a period longer than three months, and a ship to which an 

extension is granted shall not, on its arrival in the port in which it is to be surveyed, be entitled by 

virtue of such extension to leave that port without having a new certificate. When the renewal 

survey is completed, the new certificate shall be valid to a date not exceeding five years from the 

date of expiry of the existing certificate before the extension was granted. 

9 A certificate issued to a ship engaged on short voyages which has not been extended 

under the foregoing provisions of this regulation may be extended by the Administration for a 

period of grace of up to one month from the date of expiry stated on it. When the renewal survey 

is completed, the new certificate shall be valid to a date not exceeding five years from the date of 

expiry of the existing certificate before the extension was granted. 

10 In special circumstances, as determined by the Administration, a new certificate need not 

be dated from the date of expiry of the existing certificate as required by paragraphs 4, 8 or 9 of 

this regulation. In these special circumstances, the new certificate shall be valid to a date not 

exceeding five years from the date of completion of the renewal survey. 

11 An International Ready for Recycling Certificate shall be issued either by the 

Administration or by any person or organization authorized by it, after a final survey in 

accordance with the provisions of regulation 10, to any ships to which regulation 10 applies, 

taking into account the authorization of the Ship Recycling Facility and the guidelines developed 

by the Organization. 

12 A certificate issued under the authority of a Party shall be accepted by the other Parties 

and regarded for all purposes covered by this Convention as having the same validity as a 

certificate issued by them. Certificates shall be issued or endorsed either by the Administration or 

by any person or organization duly authorized by it. In every case, the Administration assumes 

full responsibility for the certificate. 

Regulation 12 Issuance or endorsement of a certificate by another Party

1 At the request of the Administration, another Party may cause a ship to be surveyed and, 

if satisfied that the provisions of this Convention are complied with, shall issue or authorize the 

issuance of a certificate to the ship, and where appropriate, endorse or authorize the endorsement 

of that certificate on the ship, in accordance with this Annex.
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 22 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2 A copy of the certificate and a copy of the survey report shall be transmitted as soon as 

possible to the requesting Administration. 

3 A certificate so issued shall contain a statement to the effect that it has been issued at the 

request of the Administration and it shall have the same force and receive the same recognition as 

a certificate issued by the Administration. 

4 No certificate shall be issued to a ship entitled to fly the flag of a State which is not a 

Party. 

Regulation 13 Form of the certificates 

The certificates shall be drawn up in the official language of the issuing Party, in the form set 

forth in Appendices 3 and 4. If the language used is neither English, French nor Spanish, the text 

shall include a translation into one of these languages. The Administration may, however, issue 

the International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials drawn up only in the official 

language of the issuing Party to ships not engaged in voyages to ports or offshore terminals under 

the jurisdiction of other Parties to this Convention and the International Ready for Recycling 

Certificate drawn up only in the official language of the issuing Party to ships recycled in Ship 

Recycling Facilities under the jurisdiction of the issuing Party.

Regulation 14 Duration and validity of the certificates

1 An International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials issued under 

regulation 11 or 12 shall cease to be valid in any of the following cases: 

.1 if the condition of the ship does not correspond substantially with the particulars 

of the certificate, including where Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials 

is not properly maintained and updated, reflecting changes in ship structure and 

equipment, in accordance with the guidelines developed by the Organization;

.2 upon transfer of the ship to the flag of another State. A new certificate shall only 

be issued when the Party issuing the new certificate is fully satisfied that the ship 

is in compliance with the requirements of regulation 10. In the case of a transfer 

between Parties, if requested within three months after the transfer has taken 

place, the Party whose flag the ship was formerly entitled to fly shall, as soon as 

possible, transmit to the Administration copies of the certificates carried by the 

ship before the transfer and, if available, copies of the relevant survey reports;

.3 if the renewal survey is not completed within the periods specified under 

regulations 10.1 and 11; or

.4 if the certificate is not endorsed in accordance with regulation 11 or 12. 

2 An International Ready for Recycling Certificate shall be issued for a period specified by 

the Administration that shall not exceed three months. 

3 An International Ready for Recycling Certificate issued under regulation 11 or 12 shall 

cease to be valid if the condition of the ship does not correspond substantially with the particulars 

of the certificate. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4 The International Ready for Recycling Certificate may be extended by the Administration 

or by any person or organization authorized by it for a single point to point voyage to the Ship 

Recycling Facility. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 24 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

CHAPTER 3 – REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIP RECYCLING FACILITIES 

Regulation 15 Controls on Ship Recycling Facilities 

1 Each Party shall establish legislation, regulations, and standards that are necessary to 

ensure that Ship Recycling Facilities are designed, constructed, and operated in a safe and 

environmentally sound manner in accordance with the regulations of this Convention. 

2 Each Party shall establish a mechanism for authorizing Ship Recycling Facilities with 

appropriate conditions to ensure that such Ship Recycling Facilities meet the requirements of this 

Convention. 

3 Each Party shall establish a mechanism for ensuring that Ship Recycling Facilities 

comply with the requirements of this chapter including the establishment and effective use of 

inspection, monitoring and enforcement provisions, including powers of entry and sampling. 

Such a mechanism may include an audit scheme to be carried out by the Competent 

Authority(ies) or an organization recognized by the Party, taking into account guidelines 

developed by the Organization, and the results of these audits should be communicated to the 

Organization. 

4 Each Party shall designate one or more Competent Authorities and a contact point to be 

used by the Organization and Parties to this Convention, for matters related to Ship Recycling 

Facilities operating within the jurisdiction of that Party. 

Regulation 16 Authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities 

1 Ship Recycling Facilities which recycle ships to which this Convention applies, or ships 

treated similarly pursuant to Article 3.4, shall be authorized by a Party taking into account the 

guidelines developed by the Organization. 

2 The authorization shall be carried out by the Competent Authority(ies) and shall include 

verification of documentation required by this Convention and a site inspection. The Competent 

Authority(ies) may however entrust the authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities to 

organizations recognized by it. 

3 The Party shall notify the Organization of the specific responsibilities and conditions of 

the authority delegated to the recognized organizations, for circulation to Parties. In every case, 

the Competent Authority(ies) retains full responsibility for the authorization issued. 

4 The authorization shall be drawn up in the form set forth in Appendix 5. If the language 

used is neither English, French nor Spanish, the text shall include a translation into one of these 

languages. 

5 The authorization shall be valid for a period specified by the Party but not 

exceeding 5 years. The Party shall identify the terms for which the authorization will be issued, 

withdrawn, suspended, amended and renewed, and communicate these terms to the Ship 

Recycling Facilities. If a Ship Recycling Facility refuses inspection by the Competent 

Authority(ies) or the recognized organization operating on its/their behalf, the authorization shall 

be suspended or withdrawn. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 25 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

6 If incidents or actions taken at the Ship Recycling Facility have the effect that the 

conditions for the authorization are no longer fulfilled, the Ship Recycling Facility shall inform 

the Competent Authority(ies). The Competent Authority(ies) may accordingly decide to suspend 

or withdraw the authorization, or require corrective actions by the Ship Recycling Facility. 

Regulation 17 General requirements 

1 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall establish management systems, 

procedures and techniques which do not pose health risks to the workers concerned or to the 

population in the vicinity of the Ship Recycling Facility and which will prevent, reduce, 

minimize and to the extent practicable eliminate adverse effects on the environment caused by 

Ship Recycling, taking into account guidelines developed by the Organization. 

2 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall, for ships to which this Convention 

applies, or ships treated similarly pursuant to Article 3.4: 

.1 only accept ships that: 

.1 comply with this Convention; or 

.2 meet the requirements of this Convention; 

.2 only accept ships which it is authorized to recycle; and 

.3 have the documentation of its authorization available if such documentation is 

requested by a shipowner that is considering recycling a ship at that Ship 

Recycling Facility.

Regulation 18 Ship Recycling Facility Management Plan

Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall prepare a Ship Recycling Facility 

Management Plan. The Plan shall be adopted by the board or the appropriate governing body of 

the Recycling Company, and shall include: 

.1 a policy ensuring workers’ safety and the protection of human health and the 

environment, including the establishment of objectives that lead to the 

minimization and elimination to the extent practicable of the adverse effects on 

human health and the environment caused by Ship Recycling; 

.2 a system for ensuring implementation of the requirements set out in this 

Convention, the achievement of the goals set out in the policy of the Recycling 

Company, and the continuous improvement of the procedures and standards used 

in the Ship Recycling operations; 

.3 identification of roles and responsibilitilies for employers and workers when 

conducting Ship Recycling operations; 

.4 a programme for providing appropriate information and training of workers for 

the safe and environmentally sound operation of the Ship Recycling Facilities; 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 26 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.5 an emergency preparedness and response plan; 

.6 a system for monitoring the performance of Ship Recycling; 

.7 a record-keeping system showing how Ship Recycling is carried out; 

.8 a system for reporting discharges, emissions, incidents and accidents causing 

damage, or with the potential of causing damage, to workers’ safety, human health 

and the environment; and 

.9 a system for reporting occupational diseases, accidents, injuries and other adverse 

effects on workers’ safety and human health, 

taking into account guidelines developed by the Organization. 

Regulation 19 Prevention of adverse effects to human health and the environment 

Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall establish and utilize procedures to: 

.1 prevent explosions and other unsafe conditions by ensuring that gas free for hot 

work conditions are maintained throughout Ship Recycling; 

.2 ensure safe entry procedures for confined and/or enclosed spaces by monitoring 

atmospheric conditions throughout Ship Recycling; 

.3 prevent other accidents, occupational diseases and injuries or other adverse effects 

on human health and the environment; and 

.4 prevent spills or emissions throughout Ship Recycling which may cause harm to 

human health and/or the environment, 

taking into account guidelines developed by the Organization. 

Regulation 20 Safe and environmentally sound management of Hazardous Materials 

1 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall ensure safe and environmentally 

sound removal of any Hazardous Material contained in a ship certified in accordance with 

regulations 11 or 12. The person(s) in charge of the recycling operations and the workers shall 

be familiar with the requirements of this Convention relevant to their tasks and in particular 

actively use the Inventory of Hazardous Materials and the Ship Recycling Plan, prior to and 

during the removal of Hazardous Materials. 

2 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall ensure that all Hazardous Materials 

detailed in the Inventory are identified, labelled, packaged and removed to the maximum extent 

possible prior to cutting by properly trained and equiped workers, taking into account the 

guidelines developed by the Organization, in particular: 

.1 hazardous liquids, residues and sediments; 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 27 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.2 substances or objects containing heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium 

and hexavalent chromium; 

.3 paints and coatings that are highly flammable and/or lead to toxic releases; 

.4 asbestos and materials containing asbestos; 

.5 PCB and materials containing PCBs, ensuring that heat inducing equipment is 

avoided during such operations; 

.6 CFCs and halons; and 

.7 other Hazardous Materials not listed above and that are not a part of the ship 

structure. 

3 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall provide for and ensure safe and 

environmentally sound management of all Hazardous Materials and wastes removed from the 

ship recycled at that Ship Recycling Facility. Waste management and disposal sites shall be 

identified to provide for the further safe and environmentally sound management of materials. 

4 All wastes generated from the recycling activity shall be kept separate from recyclable 

materials and equipment, labelled, stored in appropriate conditions that do not pose a risk to the 

workers, human health or the environment and only transferred to a waste management facility 

authorized to deal with their treatment and disposal in a safe and environmentally sound manner. 

Regulation 21 Emergency preparedness and response 

Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall establish and maintain an emergency 

preparedness and response plan. The plan shall be made having regard to the location and 

environment of the Ship Recycling Facility, and shall take into account the size and nature of 

activities associated with each Ship Recycling operation. The plan shall furthermore: 

.1 ensure that the necessary equipment and procedures to be followed in the case of 

an emergency are in place, and that drills are conducted on a regular basis; 

.2 ensure that the necessary information, internal communication and co-ordination 

are provided to protect all people and the environment in the event of an 

emergency at the Ship Recycling Facility; 

.3 provide for communication with, and information to, the relevant Competent 

Authority(ies), the neighbourhood and emergency response services; 

.4 provide for first-aid and medical assistance, fire-fighting and evacuation of all 

people at the Ship Recycling Facility, pollution prevention; and 

.5 provide for relevant information and training to all workers of the Ship Recycling 

Facility, at all levels and according to their competence, including regular 

exercises in emergency prevention, preparedness and response procedures. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 28 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Regulation 22 Worker safety and training 

1 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall provide for worker safety by 

measures including: 

.1 ensuring the availability, maintenance and use of personal protective equipment 

and clothing needed for all Ship Recycling operations; 

.2 ensuring that training programmes are provided to enable workers to safely 

undertake all Ship Recycling operations they are tasked to do; and 

 .3 ensuring that all workers at the Ship Recycling Facility have been provided with 

appropriate training and familiarization prior to performing any Ship Recycling 

operation. 

2 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall provide and ensure the use of 

personal protective equipment for operations requiring such use, including: 

.1 head protection; 

.2 face and eye protection; 

.3 hand and foot protection; 

.4 respiratory protective equipment; 

.5 hearing protection; 

.6 protectors against radioactive contamination; 

.7 protection from falls; and 

.8 appropriate clothing. 

3 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party may co-operate in providing for training 

of workers. Taking into account the guidelines developed by the Organization, the training 

programmes set forth in paragraph 1.2 of this regulation shall: 

.1 cover all workers including contractor personnel and employees in the Ship 

Recycling Facility; 

.2 be conducted by Competent persons; 

.3 provide for initial and refresher training at appropriate intervals; 

.4 include participants’ evaluation of their comprehension and retention of the 

training; 

.5 be reviewed periodically and modified as necessary; and 

.6 be documented. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 29 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Regulation 23 Reporting on incidents, accidents, occupational diseases and chronic effects 

1 Ship Recycling Facilities authorized by a Party shall report to the Competent 

Authority(ies) any incident, accident, occupational diseases, or chronic effects causing, or with 

the potential of causing, risks to workers safety, human health and the environment. 

2 Reports shall contain a description of the incident, accident, occupational disease, or 

chronic effect, its cause, the response action taken and the consequences and corrective actions to 

be taken.
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 30 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

CHAPTER 4 – REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 

Regulation 24 Initial notification and reporting requirements 

1 A shipowner shall notify the Administration in due time and in writing of the intention to 

recycle a ship in order to enable the Administration to prepare for the survey and certification 

required by this Convention. 

2 A Ship Recycling Facility when preparing to receive a ship for recycling shall notify in 

due time and in writing its Competent Authority(ies) of the intent. The notification shall include 

at least the following ship details: 

.1 name of the State whose flag the ship is entitled to fly; 

.2 date on which the ship was registered with that State; 

.3 ship’s identification number (IMO number); 

.4 hull number on new-building delivery; 

.5 name and type of the ship; 

.6 port at which the ship is registered; 

.7 name and address of the Shipowner as well as the IMO registered owner 

identification number; 

.8 name and address of the company as well as the IMO company identification 

number; 

.9 name of all classification society(ies) with which the ship is classed; 

.10 ship’s main particulars (Length overall (LOA), Breadth (Moulded), Depth 

(Moulded), Lightweight, Gross and Net tonnage, and engine type and rating); 

.11 Inventory of Hazardous Materials; and 

.12 draft ship recycling plan for approval pursuant to regulation 9. 

3 When the ship destined to be recycled has acquired the International Ready for Recycling 

Certificate, the Ship Recycling Facility shall report to its Competent Authority(ies) the planned 

start of the Ship Recycling. The report shall be in accordance with the reporting format in 

Appendix 7, and shall at least include a copy of the International Ready for Recycling Certificate. 

Recycling of the ship shall not start prior to the submission of the report. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 31 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Regulation 25 Reporting upon completion 

When the partial or complete recycling of a ship is completed in accordance with the 

requirements of this Convention, a Statement of Completion shall be issued by the Ship 

Recycling Facility and reported to its Competent Authority(ies) and shall be copied to the 

Administration which issued the International Ready for Recycling Certificate for the ship. The 

Statement shall be issued within 14 days of the date of partial or completed Ship Recycling in 

accordance with the Ship Recycling Plan and shall include a report on incidents and accidents 

damaging human health and/or the environment if any. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 32 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 1 

CONTROLS OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

Hazardous Material Definitions Control measures 

Asbestos Materials containing asbestos For all ships, new installation of 

materials which contain asbestos 

shall be prohibited. 

Ozone-depleting 

substances 

Ozone-depleting substances means 

controlled substances defined in 

paragraph 4 of article 1 of the Montreal 

Protocol on Substances that Deplete the 

Ozone Layer, 1987, listed in Annexes 

A,B,C or E to the said Protocol in force at 

the time of application or interpretation of 

this Annex. 

Ozone-depleting substances that may be 

found on board ship include, but are not 

limited to: 

Halon 1211 Bromochlorodifluoromethane 

Halon 1301 Bromotrifluoromethane 

Halon 2402 1,2-Dibromo-1,1,2,2-

tetrafluoroethane (also known as Halon 

114B2) 

CFC-11 Trichlorofluoromethane 

CFC-12 Dichlorodifluoromethane 

CFC-113 1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-

trifluoroethane 

CFC-114 1,2-Dichloro-1,1,2,2-

tetrafluoroethane 

CFC-115 Chloropentafluoroethane 

New installations which contain 

ozone-depleting substances shall 

be prohibited on all ships, except 

that new installations containing 

hydrochlorofluorocarbons 

(HCFCs) are permitted 

until 1 January 2020. 

Polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCB) 

“Polychlorinated biphenyls” means 

aromatic compounds formed in such a 

manner that the hydrogen atoms on the 

biphenyl molecule (two benzene rings 

bonded together by a single carbon-carbon 

bond) may be replaced by up to ten 

chlorine atoms 

For all ships, new installation of 

materials which contain 

Polychlorinated biphenyls shall 

be prohibited. 

Organotin 

compounds 

(Tributyl Tin (TBT), 

Triphenyl Tin (TPT), 

Tributyl Tin Oxide 

(TBTO)) 

Organotin compounds which act as 

biocides in anti-fouling systems 

All ships shall not apply or 

re-apply such compounds. 

All ships (except fixed and 

floating platforms, FSUs, and 

FPSOs that have been constructed 

prior to 1 January 2003 and that 

have not been in dry-dock on or 

after 1 January 2003): 

(1) shall not bear such 

compounds on their hulls or 

external parts or surface or 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 33 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Hazardous Material Definitions Control measures 

(2) shall bear a coating that 

forms a barrier to such 

compounds leaching from 

the underlying 

non-compliant anti-fouling 

systems. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 34 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 2 

MINIMUM LIST OF ITEMS FOR THE INVENTORY OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

(FOR NEW SHIPS AND NEW INSTALLATIONS) 

Any Hazardous Materials listed in Appendix 1 

Cadmium and Cadmium Compounds 

Hexavalent Chromium and Hexavalent Chromium Compounds 

Lead and Lead Compounds 

Mercury and Mercury Compounds 

Polybrominated Biphenyl (PBBs) 

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) 

Polychlorinated Naphthalenes (more than 3 chlorine atoms) 

Radioactive Substances 

Certain Shortchain Chlorinated Paraffins (Alkanes, C10-C13, chloro) 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 35 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 3 

FORM OF THE INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE ON INVENTORY OF 

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE ON INVENTORY OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

(Note: This certificate shall be supplemented by Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials) 

(Official seal) (State)

Issued under the provisions of the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally 

Sound Recycling of Ships (hereinafter referred to as the Convention) under the authority of the 

Government of 

....................................................................................... 

(full designation of the country) 

by .....................................................................................

(full designation of the person or organization authorized under the provisions of the 

Convention) 

Particulars of the Ship 

Name of Ship 

Distinctive number or letters 

Port of Registry 

Gross tonnage 

IMO number 

Name and address of shipowner 

IMO registered owner 

identification number 

IMO company identification 

number 

Date of Construction 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 36 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Particulars of Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials 

Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials identification/verification number: .................

Note: Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials, as required by regulation 5 of the 

Annex to the Convention, is an essential part of the International Certificate on Inventory 

of Hazardous Materials and must always accompany the International Certificate on 

Inventory of Hazardous Materials. Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials should 

be compiled on the basis of the standard format shown in the guidelines developed by the 

Organization. 

THIS IS TO CERTIFY: 

1. that the ship has been surveyed in accordance with regulation 10 of the Annex to the 

Convention; and 

2. that the survey shows that Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials fully 

complies with the applicable requirements of the Convention.

Completion date of survey on which this certificate is based: .........................(dd/mm/yyyy) 

This certificate is valid until ...............................................(dd/mm/yyyy) 

Issued at .............................................................................. 

(Place of issue of certificate) 

(dd/mm/yyyy) ..................... .....................................................................

(Date of issue) (Signature of duly authorized official issuing the certificate) 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 37 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ENDORSEMENT TO EXTEND THE CERTIFICATE IF VALID FOR 

LESS THAN FIVE YEARS WHERE REGULATION 11.6 APPLIES∗

The ship complies with the relevant provisions of the Convention, and this certificate shall, in 

accordance with regulation 11.6 of the Annex to the Convention, be accepted as valid until 

(dd/mm/yyyy): ............................... 

 Signed: ..................................................... 

 (Signature of duly authorized official) 

 Place: ....................................................... 

 Date: (dd/mm/yyyy) ......................................... 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 

ENDORSEMENT WHERE THE RENEWAL SURVEY HAS BEEN COMPLETED 

AND REGULATION 11.7 APPLIES*

The ship complies with the relevant provisions of the Convention, and this certificate shall, in 

accordance with regulation 11.7 of the Annex to the Convention, be accepted as valid until 

(dd/mm/yyyy): .............................. 

 Signed: ..................................................... 

 (Signature of duly authorized official) 

 Place: ....................................................... 

 Date: (dd/mm/yyyy) ...................................... 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 

 

∗

 This page of the endorsement at survey shall be reproduced and added to the certificate as considered necessary 

by the Administration. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 38 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ENDORSEMENT TO EXTEND THE VALIDITY OF THE CERTIFICATE UNTIL 

REACHING THE PORT OF SURVEY OR FOR A PERIOD OF GRACE WHERE 

REGULATION 11.8 OR 11.9 APPLIES∗

This certificate shall, in accordance with regulation 11.8 or 11.9** of the Annex to the 

Convention, be accepted as valid until (dd/mm/yyyy): .............................. 

 

 Signed: ..................................................... 

 (Signature of duly authorized official) 

 Place: ....................................................... 

 Date: (dd/mm/yyyy) ...................................... 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 

ENDORSEMENT FOR ADDITIONAL SURVEY*

 

At an additional survey in accordance with regulation 10 of the Annex to the Convention, the 

ship was found to comply with the relevant provisions of the Convention. 

 Signed: ............................................ 

 (Signature of duly authorized official) 

 Place: ................................................. 

 Date: (dd/mm/yyyy) .............................

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 

 

∗

 This page of the endorsement at survey shall be reproduced and added to the certificate as considered necessary 

by the Administration. ** Delete as appropriate. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 39 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 4 

FORM OF THE INTERNATIONAL READY FOR RECYCLING CERTIFICATE 

INTERNATIONAL READY FOR RECYCLING CERTIFICATE 

(Note: This certificate shall be supplemented by the Inventory of Hazardous Materials and the 

Ship Recycling Plan) 

(Official seal) (State)

Issued under the provisions of the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally 

Sound Recycling of Ships (hereinafter referred to as the Convention) under the authority of the 

Government of 

....................................................................................... 

(full designation of the country) 

by .....................................................................................

(full designation of the person or organization authorized 

 under the provisions of the Convention) 

Particulars of the Ship 

Name of Ship 

Distinctive number or letters 

Port of Registry 

Gross tonnage 

IMO number 

Name and address of shipowner 

IMO registered owner 

identification number8

IMO company identification 

number9

Date of Construction 

 

8 Adopted by resolution MSC.194(80). 

9 Adopted by resolution MSC.194(80). 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 40 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Particulars of the Ship Recycling Facility(ies) 

Name of Ship Recycling Facility 

Distinctive Recycling Company 

identity number*

Full address 

Date of expiry of DASR 

*

 This number is based on the Document of Authorization to conduct Ship Recycling (DASR).

Particulars of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials 

Inventory of Hazardous Materials identification/verification number: .................................

Note: The Inventory of Hazardous Materials, as required by regulation 5 of the Annex to 

the Convention, is an essential part of the International Ready for Recycling Certificate and 

must always accompany the International Ready for Recycling Certificate. The Inventory 

of Hazardous Materials should be compiled on the basis of the standard format shown in 

the guidelines developed by the Organization. 

Particulars of the Ship Recycling Plan 

Ship Recycling Plan identification/verification number: ...................................

Note: The Ship Recycling Plan, as required by regulation 9 of the Annex to the 

Convention, is an essential part of the International Ready for Recycling Certificate and 

must always accompany the International Ready for Recycling Certificate. 

THIS IS TO CERTIFY: 

1 that the ship has been surveyed in accordance with regulation 10 of the Annex to the 

Convention; 

2 that the ship has a valid Inventory of Hazardous Materials in accordance with 

regulation 5 of the Annex to the Convention; 

3 that a Ship Recycling Plan has been developed in accordance with the provisions of 

regulation 9 of the Annex to the Convention and, unless a Party has made a 

declaration pursuant to Article 16.6, has been approved by the Competent 

Authority(ies); and 

4 that the Ship Recycling Facility where this ship is to be recycled holds a valid 

authorization in accordance with the Convention. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 41 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

This certificate is valid until (dd/mm/yyyy) .................................... 

 (Date) 

Issued at .............................................................................. 

(Place of issue of certificate) 

(dd/mm/yyyy) ........................... ...................................................... 

(Date of issue) (Signature of duly authorized official 

 issuing the certificate) 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 42 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ENDORSEMENT TO EXTEND THE VALIDITY OF THE CERTIFICATE UNTIL 

REACHING THE PORT OF THE SHIP RECYCLING FACILITY FOR A PERIOD 

OF GRACE WHERE REGULATION 14.4 APPLIES∗

This certificate shall, in accordance with regulation 14.4 of the Annex to the Convention, be 

accepted as valid for a single point to point voyage 

from the port of: .................................. 

to the port of: ...................................... 

 Signed: ..................................................... 

 (Signature of duly authorized official) 

 Place: ....................................................... 

 Date: (dd/mm/yyyy) .................................... 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 

 

∗

 This page of the endorsement shall be reproduced and added to the certificate as considered necessary by the 

Administration. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 43 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 5 

FORM OF THE AUTHORIZATION OF SHIP RECYCLING FACILITIES 

Document of Authorization to conduct Ship Recycling (DASR) in accordance with the 

requirements of the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound 

Recycling of Ships 

Issued under the provision of the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally 

Sound Recycling of Ships (hereinafter referred to as the Convention) under the authority of the 

Government of: 

.................................................................................................................. 

(Full designation of the country) 

by.............................................................................................................. 

(Full designation of the Competent Authority under the Convention) 

Name of Ship Recycling Facility 

Distinctive Recycling Company identity No. 

Full address of Ship Recycling Facility 

Primary contact person 

Phone number 

E-mail address 

Name, address, and contact information of 

ownership company 

Working language(s) 

This is to verify that the Ship Recycling Facility has implemented management systems, 

procedures and techniques in accordance with Chapters 3 and 4 to the Annex to the Convention. 

This authorization is valid until ......................... and is subject to the limitations identified in 

the attached supplement. 

This authorization is subject to amendment, suspension, withdrawal, or periodic renewal in 

accordance with regulation 16 of the Annex to the Convention. 

Issued at....................................................................................................... 

(Place of issue of the authorization) 

(dd/mm/yyyy).................. .................................................................... 

(Date of issue) (Signature of duly authorized official issuing the authorization) 

 ...................................................................................... 

 (Typed name and title of duly authorized official issuing the authorization) 

(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate) 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 44 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

SUPPLEMENT TO: 

Document of Authorization to undertake Ship Recycling (DASR) in accordance with the 

International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships 

Notes: 

1 This record shall be permanently attached to the DASR. The DASR shall be available 

 at the Ship Recycling Facility at all times. 

2 All procedures, plans and other documents produced by the Ship Recycling Facility 

 and required under the terms to which the DASR has been issued shall be available in 

 the working language of the Ship Recycling Facility and in either English, French or 

 Spanish. 

3 The authorization is subject to the limitations defined by this supplement. 

1 GENERAL TERMS 

1.1 Requirements of the Convention 

The Ship Recycling Facility meets the requirements that it be designed, constructed, and 

operated in a safe and environmentally sound manner in accordance with the Convention, 

including meeting the relevant requirements of: 

 Regulation 16 – Authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities 

 Regulation 17 – General requirements 

 Regulation 18 – Ship Recycling Facility Management Plan 

 Regulation 19 – Prevention of adverse effects to human health and the environment 

 Regulation 20 – Safe and environmentally sound management of Hazardous Materials 

 Regulation 21 – Emergency preparedness and response 

 Regulation 22 – Worker safety and training 

 Regulation 23 – Reporting on incidents, accidents, occupational diseases and chronic 

effects 

 Regulation 24 – Initial notification and reporting requirements 

 Regulation 25 – Reporting upon completion 

These requirements are imposed on the Ship Recycling Facility by way of 

...................................................................................................................... 

(identify the permit, licence, authorization, legal standards, or other mechanism that applies) 

Ship Recycling Facility Management Plan identification/verification number: ........................ 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 45 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

1.2 Acceptance of ships 

For ships to which the Convention applies and ships treated similarly pursuant to 

Article 3.4 of the Convention, the Ship Recycling Facility can only accept a ship for recycling in 

accordance with regulation 17 of the Annex to the Convention. 

1.3 Safe-for-hot-work 

The Ship Recycling Facility is capable to establish and maintain “gas-free-for-hot-work” 

conditions throughout the Ship Recycling process. 

1.4 Management of Hazardous Materials 

The Ship Recycling Facility is designed, constructed, operated, and required to ensure 

that all Hazardous Materials’ management shall be safe and environmentally sound in 

compliance with the Convention and with all relevant local or national regulations/requirements. 

1.5 Map and location of Ship Recycling operations

A map of the boundary of the Ship Recycling Facility and the location of Ship Recycling 

operations within it, is attached. 

2 CAPABILITY OF SHIP RECYCLING FACILITY 

2.1 Size of ships 

The Ship Recycling Facility is authorized to accept a ship for recycling subject to the 

following size limitations: 

Maximum Size Other Limitations 

Length 

Breadth 

Lightweight 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 46 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

2.2 Safe and Environmentally Sound Management of Hazardous Materials 

The Ship Recycling Facility is authorized to accept a ship for recycling that contains 

Hazardous Materials as specified in the following table subject to the conditions noted below: 

Management of Hazardous Materials 

Hazardous Material Removal 

Y/N (*

2) 

Storage 

Y/N 

Process (*

1) 

Y/N (*

3) 

Authorization/Limitations 

Appendix 1 

Asbestos 

....... 

Appendix 2 

Cadmium and Cadmium 

Compounds 

 

....... 

Regulation 20 

2.1 hazardous liquids, 

residues and sediments 

 

2.3 paints and coatings that 

are highly flammable 

and/or leads to toxic 

release 

 

2.7 other Hazardous 

Materials not listed 

above and that are not a 

part of the ship structure 

(specify) 

 

Note: *

1 Process means the processing of Hazardous Materials in the Ship Recycling Facility, such 

as: 

a. incineration of Hazardous Materials; 

b. reclamation of Hazardous Materials; and 

c. treatment of oily residues 

*

2 If Yes (Y), indicate in the Recycling Facility Management Plan the responsible personnel 

authorized to carry out the removal, with the certificate number or other relevant 

information. 

*

3 If No (N), describe in the Ship Recycling Plan where the Hazardous Materials are to be 

processed/disposed. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 47 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 6 

FORM OF THE STATEMENT OF COMPLETION OF SHIP RECYCLING 

STATEMENT OF COMPLETION OF SHIP RECYCLING 

This document is a statement of completion of Ship Recycling for 

.................................................................................................... 

(name of the ship when it was received for recycling/at the point of deregistration) 

Particulars of the Ship as received for recycling 

Distinctive number or letters 

Port of Registry 

Gross tonnage 

IMO number 

Name and address of shipowner 

IMO registered owner 

identification number

IMO company identification 

number

Date of Construction 

THIS CONFIRMS THAT: 

 The ship has been recycled in accordance with the Ship Recycling Plan as part of the 

International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships 

(hereinafter referred to as the Convention) at 

............................................................................................................... 

(Name and location of the authorized Ship Recycling Facility) 

and the recycling of the ship as required by the Convention was completed on:

(dd/mm/yyyy) ............................................... 

(Date of completion) 

Issued at ........................................................................................

(Place of issue of the Statement of Completion) 

(dd/mm/yyyy) ..................... ............................................................... 

(Date of issue) (Signature of the owner of the Ship Recycling 

Facility or a representative acting on behalf 

of the owner) 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 6 

Page 48 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

APPENDIX 7 

FORM OF REPORT OF PLANNED START OF SHIP RECYCLING 

The .................................................................................................................................................... 

(Name of Ship Recycling Facility) 

located at ........................................................................................................................................... 

(Full Ship Recycling Facility address) 

Authorized in accordance with the requirements of the International Convention for the Safe and 

Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (hereinafter referred to as the Convention) to conduct 

Ship Recycling under the authority of the Government of: 

................................................................................................................................................ 

(Full designation of country) 

as indicated in the Document of Authorization to conduct Ship Recycling issued at 

........................................................................................................................................................... 

(Place of authorization) 

by ....................................................................................................................................................... 

(Full designation of the Competent Authority under the Convention) 

on (dd/mm/yyyy) ...................................................................... 

 (Date of issue) 

Hereby reports that the Ship Recycling Facility is ready in every respect to start the recycling of 

the vessel ............................................... 

 (IMO number) 

The International Ready for Recycling Certificate issued under the provisions of the Convention 

under the authority of the Government of 

........................................................................................................................................................... 

(Full designation of country) 

by ...................................................................................................................................................... 

(Full designation of the person or organization authorized under the provisions of the Convention) 

on (dd/mm/yyyy) ........................................................... 

 (Date of issue) 

is enclosed. 

Signed .............................................................................................................................................. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 7 

DRAFT CONFERENCE RESOLUTION 

CONTRIBUTION OF THE PARTIES TO THE BASEL CONVENTION AND 

THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT 

OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFE AND 

ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND RECYCLING OF SHIPS 

THE CONFERENCE, 

HAVING ADOPTED the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally 

Sound Recycling of Ships, 

BEING AWARE of the active and constructive participation and contribution of 

representatives of the Parties to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary 

Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal and the International Labour Organization 

and their Secretariats at all stages of the development of the Convention, 

 

RECOGNIZING the role and competencies of the Basel Convention and expertise of its 

representatives on matters relating to the transboundary movement and to the environmentally 

sound management of waste, 

RECOGNIZING ALSO, the role, competencies and expertise of the International Labour 

Organization on matters relating to occupational safety and health of workers, 

 EXPRESSES its appreciation for the contribution made by the Basel Convention and the 

International Labour Organization during the development of this Convention. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 8 

STATEMENT BY THE DELEGATION OF TURKEY 

REGARDING A PILOT PROJECT ON SHIP RECYCLING 

The Committee will recall that during MEPC 55 Turkey informed the Working Group on 

Ship Recycling of its intention to submit a proposal to run a trial on recycling two ships in 

accordance with the provisions of the draft International Convention for the Safe and 

Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, utilizing its own facilities. The Working Group 

accepted the offer and the Committee at that session invited Turkey to provide further 

information.

Turkey submitted document MEPC-ISRWG 3/2/6 which was discussed during the 3rd 

ISRWG. This document outlined the proposal which intended to evaluate the provisions of the 

draft convention. It was the intention that the outcome of the Pilot Project would be a report 

relating to the recycling of ships with the aim of improving the draft convention. 

The proposal was welcomed by many delegations and during the deliberations it was 

suggested that Turkey should either make a submission to the Committee detailing the resources 

needed and the proposed arrangements, or proceed with the project independently, or in 

co-operation with other interested States and organizations and submit its result to the 

Committee. 

After further consultations it was considered that such a project might be easier to 

conduct in co-operation with other States, but in any case independent of the Organization. 

It was the intention that following the completion of the project, all the participants would 

prepare and co-sponsor a document to MEPC stating the findings of the project and the relevant 

proposals for amendments both to the draft convention and to the associated guidelines, as 

applicable. 

Following MEPC 57, an informal correspondence group was formed under the 

coordination of Turkey. Twenty-six Countries and organizations showed their interest and 

twenty-two of them wished to be listed in the group. However, only four wished to take part in 

the Steering Committee. 

Until now, a vessel has not been provided for the benefit of the project and therefore it 

has not been possible yet for the project to get underway. However, bearing in mind the 

usefulness of the project when and if completed, and although it might be somewhat late for 

making any amendments to the draft convention, it would still be possible to obtain benefits from 

the outcome of the proposed project by incorporating the outcome in the associated guidelines 

which still need to be developed. Hence Turkey will continue to work on the Pilot Project as far 

as possible together with willing parties. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 9 

STATEMENTS BY DELEGATIONS 

ON MATTERS OF PRINCIPLE OR POLICY CONCERNING THE GHG ISSUE 

(Listed in the order of interventions) 

Statement by the delegation of China 

On Monday morning, the Secretary-General delivered an ambitious opening speech 

which mainly focused on climate change. This reminds me of my Dutch friend, Mr. De Boer, the 

Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, and the responsibility he is faced with, which, more and 

more people are willing to share it with him. Meanwhile, the speech of the Secretary-General is 

fully based on the political philosophy of international climate change negotiations. Hence, we 

believe, it is necessary to have a general debate on the issue of reduction of GHG emission from 

international shipping before we touch the details. 

The negotiation on climate change is on a crucial stage, any organization, especially, 

intergovernmental organizations, are obligated to act constructively to create good atmosphere 

and foundation for the negotiation, rather than make difficulties and contradictions. 

Environment and development are the issues of tremendous challenge faced by the human 

society. Fortunately, since the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and 

Development, the international community witnesses and harvests good and fruitful cooperation 

in this regard, which largely promote the world peace, development, environment protection and 

sustainable development. Based on this recognition, China would like to point out that all 

agreements in the sustainable development field including UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol and their 

relevant decisions, are reached by consensus. Any decision on GHG of international shipping 

should also be made by unanimous agreement. 

China appreciates the effort of IMO on GHG emission reduction from international 

shipping, and is willing to constructively cooperate with other Members in seeking an equitable 

solution. I would like to take this opportunity to stress the following: 

 1. The UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol have set fundamental principles and legal 

framework on climate change which should be the legal basis for IMO to address 

the issue of GHG emission reduction from international shipping. 

2. Regarding our future work on GHG emission reduction from international 

shipping, China is of the view that this issue should be resolved through 

consultations by all Parties in the spirit of cooperation and based on the Principle 

of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities. China is against any kind of 

unilateral or arbitrary action. Furthermore, exploration of means to implement the 

Principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities in shipping sector should 

be considered by IMO while it considers the GHG emission reduction. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

3. Article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol clearly requests that Annex I Parties, i.e., 

developed countries, to reduce their GHG emission from international shipping 

while the developing countries are not requested to do so, that was also confirmed 

by the Resolution 963(23) of IMO. China is seriously concerned with the totally 

different interpretation of this Article by the Legal Division of IMO. According to 

international law and practices, Article 2.2 shall only be interpreted by the 

competent body of the Protocol rather than any other body. China encourages 

IMO to formally seek legal opinions on this Article from the competent body of 

the Protocol, namely, the COP/MOP. 

4. The international negotiations on climate change are now at a key conjuncture. 

Any radical action may constitute an obstacle to the negotiation process, which 

will not be the situation the Parties want to face. We go along with the dialogue on 

this matter in the context of IMO. At the same time, we believe strongly that the 

best way is that any conclusion should come out after COP15 of UNFCCC at 

Copenhagen while international community makes a comprehensive arrangement 

for Bali process which may cover some elements relating to the issue we debate 

today. At the same time, China encourages the member States of IMO and their 

experts to continue to carry out study on methodological and technical issues 

concerned. 

5. Finally, China is of the view that most proposals on GHG emission reduction 

submitted to this MEPC meeting are premature and need further analysis and 

improvement. China is willing to cooperate with other Members of IMO to 

continue the consultation in future sessions. China would like to stress again that 

any decision on GHG issue should be taken by consensus. 

Statement by the delegation of Brazil 

I would like to take this opportunity to stress the importance of the work in progress in 

this Organization and that Brazil is open to engage in technical discussion during the 

development of measures to reduce GHG emissions from international shipping. However, the 

technical discussions in this forum should take into account the legal framework set by the 

United Nations Convention on Climate Change. I would like to remind that the same States who 

now take part in this discussion within IMO have agreed to the guiding principles of the 

international climate change regime. 

Although Brazil understands and respects the special nature of the international shipping 

sector, the commitments undertaken in the UNFCCC should also hold for the maritime sector. 

Also, under the international climate change regime, in line with their economic priorities, 

countries are free to decide in which sector they intend to undertake actions to reduce GHG 

emissions. 

Furthermore, Brazil strongly believes that all international discussions regarding the 

environment should be based upon the Rio Declaration, from 1992. Its Principle 7 establishes 

that States shall cooperate in a spirit of global partnership to conserve, protect and restore the 

health and integrity of the Earth's ecosystem. In view of the different contributions to global 

environmental degradation, States have common but differentiated responsibilities. This principle 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

was adopted by the UNFCCC and must be upheld in all international negotiations regarding 

climate change. 

In this regard, Brazil is unable to agree to mandatory emission reductions measures 

applicable to either all Flag States or all ships. At this stage, developing countries cannot take on 

emission reduction commitments. For this reason, emission reductions on the part of developing 

countries should only be on a voluntary basis. 

 

Brazil also wants to remind that Article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol is clear to state that 

only the Parties included in the Annex I of the Convention should pursue emission reductions 

working through IMO. Neither the Protocol nor the Convention allow for any discussion on 

mandatory actions by developing countries. 

Brazil lends its support to the position presented by the Chinese delegation (and others) 

and would like to emphasize that our position remains uniform and coherent with the Brazilian 

position within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. 

Statement by the delegation of Saudi Arabia 

We have listened with great interest to the speech of the Secretary-General of this 

organization, which focused in the centre, namely in pages 3 of 4 of the English version of 

document MEPC 58/INF.24, on greenhouse gas emissions from ships - and this is when our 

interest turned to concern as we have sensed an attempt by the Secretary General to favour the 

view of many developed countries at the expense of developing countries’ view regarding the 

application of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. 

And when the Secretary-General dismissed the application of this principle as double 

standard, he unintentionally cast doubt on the credibility of the maritime transport industry and 

the credibility of developing flag states when he justified that dismissal by saying that such 

double standards would encourage flag-hopping of ships to countries where laws are not applied 

strictly. 

For its part, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and I hope of other developing flag countries 

to do likewise, stresses that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will not accept to be a safe haven for 

ships trying to circumvent the application of the regulations. 

As everyone knows, developing countries are not at the same level of development and 

growth reached by industrialized nations. So, do we expect a young child with a small, growing 

body to compete with adults and call this a competition between equals? while developing 

countries are asking for the playing field to be levelled for fair competition by giving them the 

opportunity to grow, as provided for by the principle of common but differentiated 

responsibilities. 

We therefore stress from this forum the importance of preserving this principle to emerge 

from the bottleneck. In the absence of this principle, we do not see how we can reach agreement 

before the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Climate Change in its 15th session, to 

be held in Copenhagen in December 2009. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 4 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

We agree with China in emphasizing that the special nature of international shipping 

should not be used as a pretext to push through unilateral actions in this area without deference to 

the authority of the Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol on the issue of 

climate change. 

Statement by the delegation of India 

The issue of Global warming is a matter of serious concern for India and our Prime 

Minister has announced a National Policy to combat this important issue. This can be gauged by 

considering that India spends over 2.63% of its present GDP on Adaptation due to adverse affects 

of Climate change, as part of our National Development programme. 

India is very committed in taking all necessary measures in prevention of pollution of the 

marine environment by shipping and is committed to discuss all technical and operational 

measures to reduce GHG emissions from ship operations including future ship designs and 

IMO’s efforts in this aspect. However we would like to stress that any approach in International 

shipping to contain GHG emissions should be taken in seamless continuation with the Kyoto 

Protocol, taking its basic principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities of developing 

and developed countries. 

The document MEPC 58/4/20 on legal aspects of GHG emissions in context of Kyoto 

protocol completely misses the point. The issue of how IMO deals with the question of GHG 

emissions is a matter for member countries to take and is not a mere legal issue. 

 

In any case, what the legal decision clearly lays out is that any decision taken within IMO 

would be equally applicable to all parties. In that case, it would be, therefore, not right for IMO 

to take up an issue mandated by the UNFCCC and which clearly calls for a differentiation within 

countries, i.e. applicable only to Annex I Countries. The Kyoto Protocol clearly asks Annex I 

countries to work through IMO to address GHG reductions from marine bunker fuels. 

(Articles 2.2 and 2.3 of Kyoto Protocol) 

In addition, it was the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol which had its remit the question 

of GHG emissions. IMO’s role in this regard was at a later stage. With membership of both UN 

Organizations being the same, it is but natural that the member countries address GHG emissions 

in the UNFCCC rather than in IMO! 

If the IMO has to address GHG emissions from bunker fuels then the only possible way 

forward we can see is for the IMO to discuss in depth and give technical advice on how Annex I 

countries must reduce their GHG emissions from marine bunker fuels. 

Statement by the delegation of France 

We recognize the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities and respective 

capabilities” as defined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 

(UNFCCC) and would not wish in any circumstances to renounce our responsibilities in the fight 

against climate change. However, a misunderstanding appears to exist, for the UNFCCC does not 

stipulate that this principle is to be applied solely on the basis of differentiation between Annex I 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 5 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

and non-Annex I countries. It is true that this is how the Kyoto Protocol has been understood, but 

there is no doubt that new provisions will be necessary for the period beyond 2012, and difficult 

negotiations are taking place within the UNFCCC. It would be unfortunate if those discussions 

contaminated the debates here and hampered our work, particularly on technical solutions, an 

area in which this principle must not intervene. 

The emissions from the maritime sector are of a specific kind, in the sense that they 

cannot be attributed to a particular territory, whereas the opposite is true when it comes to 

terrestrial emissions. Here, I should like to clarify a point of methodology: during the adoption of 

the initial texts on climate change, among several possible options it was decided to make each 

country responsible for all the emissions produced on its territory and only the emissions 

produced on its territory, irrespective of the producer’s nationality. Thus, the emissions from a 

Chinese company located in France are counted as part of the emissions from France. 

This geographical distribution, which does not apply to international maritime transport, will not 

be changed. This is why we propose that maritime emissions should be subject to an overall 

sector-based approach and that policies for reducing emissions should be framed here at IMO, 

by stakeholders who understand the industry, and for all ships, in accordance with age-old 

principles adopted by IMO - which are not incompatible with UNFCCC principles. 

Statement by the delegation of Argentina 

The Argentine Republic wishes to associate itself with the comments made by the 

distinguished delegations of Brazil, India and China, among others. 

We should also like to add our own comments, which we preface with the statement that 

Argentina believes in and acknowledges the competence of the International Maritime 

Organization on the topic under discussion. 

We consider that, as the Secretary-General said in his opening statement, the 

responsibilities of IMO, in general, and the MEPC, in particular, in this matter cannot be 

delegated. 

We thus support all the efforts aimed at perfecting and harmonizing methodologies for 

calculating the greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport in collaboration with the 

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. 

We believe that, as the Secretary-General indicated, the Organization must produce viable 

and reasonable regulations in coordination with the United Nations Climate Change, and submit 

appropriate advice to the next meetings of the Parties to the Convention. 

The measures developed within IMO must be viable and reasonable not only from the 

technical viewpoint but also from the political and legal perspectives. 

We will not expand on the reasons, already given by various delegations, why we believe 

that this Committee’s work must be aligned with the principles established by the United Nations 

Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. The relevance of the 

“common but differentiated responsibilities” principle – set out with clarity and precision by the 

distinguished delegation of Brazil and by others – is an issue of fundamental importance to 

Argentina. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 6 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

In this sense we consider article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol to be sufficiently clear, 

particularly concerning the role assigned to the Annex I countries. Consequently, any proposal 

put forward by the MEPC concerning technical and operational mechanisms for reducing 

greenhouse gas emissions should comply with the above-mentioned provisions and principles. 

It is also vitally important that this meeting recognize existing differences, and the 

concerns expressed by many delegations that those should be overcome through a 

consensus-based approach. In this regard, we consider that document MEPC 58/4/32, submitted 

by China and India, provides an excellent basis to begin working towards such consensus. 

That document recognizes the difficulty that exists in drawing a clear line between the 

ships of Annex I countries and those of non-Annex I countries, owing to the complexity of the 

issues relating to ships’ ownership and registration. 

We thus support China and India’s proposal to carry out a comprehensive study on the 

application of the “common but differentiated responsibilities” principle to the reduction of GHG 

emissions from international shipping, on the basis of the Genuine Control Approach. 

We are not here facing a technical debate which can be resolved by the efforts of working 

groups alone; rather, we are facing substantive political differences deriving from differing 

interpretations among States Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate 

Change and to the Kyoto Protocol, concerning the connections between those instruments and the 

work of IMO. It is up to the States Parties to a convention to interpret it. 

We consider that the only way to resolve this debate is to take into account both the 

specific nature of international maritime transport and the concerns of developing countries, 

while also keeping in mind the risk of creating precedents that erode principles which were 

established only after arduous negotiations in the framework of United Nations debates on 

climate change. 

Statement by the delegation of Hong Kong, China 

The Hong Kong delegation fully supports IMO in playing an active role in reducing 

greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships. However, as a subsidiary of the United Nations 

(UN), IMO should act in accordance with the decisions of UN. 

IMO will be aware that the UNFCCC’s “common but differentiated responsibilities” are 

consensus of the international community with respect to addressing climate change, 

consequently these provisions and principles in all cases need to be universally recognized and 

duly respected. In addressing GHG emissions, IMO should take into account of the 

social-economic conditions and other relevant factors of both developed and developing 

countries, and avoid hasty or arbitrary decisions. 

In this respect, Hong Kong fully supports the submission by China and India in having a 

comprehensive study on this matter. In conclusion, Hong Kong must again emphasize that all 

delegations are duty bound to respect the decisions of the United Nations. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 7 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statement by the delegation of Italy 

Italy has followed with great interest the progresses so far reached in this lengthy debate 

we are handling and welcomes the statements recently submitted by South Africa, China, Brazil, 

India, and others. 

In particular this delegation appreciated the general calls for unity and balanced 

compromise solutions in favour of an international climate protection which includes reducing 

GHG emissions from international shipping. 

In this respect, in our opinion the speeches delivered have provided a glimpse of light in 

the tunnel of the discussions which have involved the international community, even though 

under differentiated perspectives. 

On this basis, if facts will concretely follow speeches, as pledges in the various 

interventions made on this so sensitive issue, it is our hope that this Committee will be allowed 

to continue its commitment in progressing the pertinent works towards satisfactory and agreed 

outcomes which, if globally adopted, will mark an new era in the maritime transport and trade 

and, in more general , in the environmental protection of the whole Planet, aims which is in the 

more intimate cords of our wishes. 

Statement by the delegation of Mexico 

This delegation welcomes the comments expressed by the delegations which spoke before 

us, and those of the Secretary-General, all of which we endorse. 

This delegation considers IMO to be the competent body to pursue the objective of 

reducing greenhouse gas emissions from fuel used in maritime transport. 

In carrying out this task, IMO must take into account the provisions of the United Nations 

Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. 

The UNFCCC recognizes that the global nature of climate change calls for the widest 

possible cooperation by all countries and their participation in an effective and appropriate 

international response, in accordance with their common but differentiated responsibilities and 

respective capacities and social and economic conditions. 

The UNFCCC also recognizes that States should enact effective environmental 

legislation, that environmental standards, management objectives and priorities should reflect the 

environmental and developmental context to which they apply, and that standards applied by 

some countries may be inappropriate and of unwarranted economic and social cost to other 

countries, in particular developing countries. 

This delegation considers that any regulatory framework which this organization may 

adopt in relation to the greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport must take into account 

the principles acknowledged in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 8 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

That differentiation of responsibilities, recognized by the instruments in force, must 

include differentiation as to forms of commitment and time frame, on an equitable basis. 

Statement by the delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea 

The delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea listened carefully to the 

statements made by China, Brazil and other delegations on the issue of the GHG reduction from 

International shipping. 

The issue of climate change has been not only a serious challenge to humankind in the 

protection of the Global environment but also so dedicated and complicated one in addressing the 

matter. 

However, we have the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol to deal with the matter. 

Therefore, my delegation is of the view that any discussion on the issue of GHG 

reduction from international shipping should be consistent with the internationally agreed and 

concluded Convention which is the UNFCCC and its’ protocol, respecting the principles of 

“Common but differentiated responsibilities”. 

This delegation fully support, in this regard, the position expressed by China, Brazil and 

India. 

As for the unity of this organization, this delegation does believe that the 

Secretary-General of IMO would be successful IMO united club manager, although he faces 

difficult issue. 

Statement by the delegation of Greece 

In the climate change debate shipping should be regarded as the best available solution to 

the global need for transportation. Shipping is the most energy efficient mode of transport and the 

backbone of global trade, annually transporting 7.5 bn tonnes of cargo. The demand for sea 

transportation determines the volume of shipping and is therefore the key factor that influences 

the overall Green House Gas (GHG) emissions from shipping. Seen in light of the enormous 

volume of goods carried by ships, the CO2 emissions from shipping are small (in terms 

of g CO2/ton-mile). This conclusion was also confirmed very recently by the outcome of the 

updated IMO Greenhouse Gases Study, the first phase of which was presented at the first 

Intersessional Meeting of the Working Group on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships in Oslo 

in June 2008 and reproduced in doc MEPC 58/INF.6. 

The reason for this is that for many decades shipping - even without specific regulation 

on this issue - has had a strong market driven incentive to focus on reduction of fuel 

consumption. 

Greece fully acknowledges the need for further reduction of air emissions from shipping 

in terms of emissions per unit of transport work, in particular in view of the projected growth in 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 9 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

world trade and thus seaborne transportation, and is of the opinion that the way to achieve 

environmental protection must be found in a holistic manner. To be successful, such an approach 

should take into consideration the availability of technology to reduce emissions, the need to 

encourage innovation and the economics of world trade. 

Any future regulatory regime must be so designed that international shipping as such is 

not capped and thus causes severe disruption to global trade and development. It is also important 

to have a holistic view on the regulation of the transport mode in order not to stimulate a modal 

shift in Europe from waterborne transport to a less environmentally credible mode of transport 

such as road, air or rail transport. 

The future regulatory regime must also be goal-based in the sense that it will encourage 

innovation and the development of new and more CO2 efficient technical and operational 

solutions, thus ensuring implementation of the most cost-effective solutions. 

Against this background, Greece advocates that the following fundamental principles be 

applied in relation to any future climate regulation on shipping: 

.1 Regulation must be flag neutral to ensure a level playing field for shipping and 

agreed internationally to ensure consistency. 

.2 Regulation must focus on relative reduction with a view to continuously 

improving efficiency of the individual ship and realize that absolute reduction 

objectives are not within reach given the growth in world trade. 

.3 Regulation must ensure the free choice of method via goal based standards to 

promote innovation and cost effective solutions. 

Global warming is, by definition, a global problem and shipping is the most global of all 

industries. 

The international community must work for international solutions via IMO applicable to 

all ships regardless of flag. This is necessary in order to establish a level playing field; otherwise, 

ships with the highest and most costly standard will lose out to ships operating in registers with a 

lower standard, which again will result in higher global emissions. 

IMO, being the specialized agency of the United Nations with 167 Member States, is the 

most appropriate forum for addressing all issues relating to the global shipping industry. 

The rules developed through the Organization’s efficient and comprehensive procedures are 

based on its extensive technical and scientific expertise and enjoy global application. 

We are convinced that the IMO will produce tangible results before the 2009 UNFCCC 

Conference in Copenhagen. Greece believes that the Member States of the IMO should on the 

one hand oppose any attempt to jeopardize IMO’s work on this issue and on the other support the 

idea that it is IMO that should set the targets, develop the rules and finally ensure their 

implementation through its well established procedures and structures (flag and port State 

control, non-favorable treatment, Technical Cooperation Programme). 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 10 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Greece is against and reserves its position on market based proposals, such as ETS for 

shipping and a cap-on-levy, until their added value on energy efficiency to be achieved by the 

world fleet, their multifaceted impact on international shipping and their indiscriminate and 

smooth implementation, are demonstrated under a scientific, technical, operational and political 

background. We would like also to express our concerns for modal shift to less efficient 

transport modes if an such economic instrument imposes a significant economic burden on the 

shipping industry compared to other transport modes, especially in Short Sea Shipping. 

Statement by the delegation of the United States 

We are faced with a difficult and critical decision today and one that has a profound 

impact on IMO and its future direction, not just for greenhouse gases, but potentially for other 

important issues. 

By calling for differentiated action, some countries are advocating an approach that is 

completely opposite to the principles of IMO and fundamentally threatens how we, as IMO, 

efficiently provide for maritime safety, security and environmental protection and the integrity, 

efficiency and health of the maritime industry which is more and more vital in an ever increasing 

global economy. 

Here in IMO, we have always come together and worked as a global community to solve 

the important issues facing international shipping. Later in this session we will adopt to new 

standards for air pollution. These amendments to Annex VI are the latest shining example of the 

success that IMO can achieve through global technical regulations. 

Indeed, IMO’s global approach is what has made it one of the most successful and 

productive international bodies. 

IMO and MEPC’s success is good for the marine environment but more importantly it is 

good for international shipping. Across the globe, it is the consistency of standards for all ships, 

which has provided certainty and allowed for greater trade and greater economic development 

throughout the world. All countries, but particularly those who economies have grown quickly 

over the last ten years, have greatly benefited from this approach. Why would we want to change 

this successful approach now? 

The United States, of course, supports the principle of common but differentiated 

responsibilities and respective capabilities in the United Nations Framework Convention on 

Climate Change. However, that principle has no place in the IMO and would, in fact, be 

inconsistent with the actions taken by IMO, which are non-discriminatory and non-differentiated 

to all ships and countries. In fact, that is our obligation. The IMO constitution clearly states that 

the purpose of the IMO is to “remove discriminatory action” and to promote commerce “without 

discrimination”. 

We are also puzzled to hear some countries assert that common but differentiated 

responsibilities must be applied in IMO because of Article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol. 

We fundamentally disagree with this view. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 11 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

I don’t think I have to remind this group that the UNFCCC and the IMO are separate 

legal instruments with separate mandates and memberships. IMO is not subservient to the 

UNFCCC. It is important to note that IMO’s mandate on GHG emissions from shipping 

predates, and does not derive from, the Kyoto Protocol.

I believe the reason countries are advocating for a differentiated approach, which we all 

know is inconsistent with IMO, is because of the ongoing negations in the United Nations 

Framework Convention on Climate Change. It is unfortunate that this body is being held hostage 

to the contentious discussions that are taking place elsewhere. This delegation and many others 

have clearly expressed the view that agreeing to take action here in IMO will NOT require States 

to take similar action in other fora. 

So far, the focus of this discussion has been on principles, which is extremely unfortunate 

as it is detracting us from fulfilling our responsibility and mandate to protect the environment. 

We must move beyond this debate. IMO is the appropriate body to address this issue, why are 

we contemplating a differentiated formulation that will prevent us from carrying out our mission? 

This delegation believes the main decision that needs to be placed before the Air 

Pollution Working group on greenhouse gases is how to move forward on an efficiency index for 

new ships. A technical energy efficiency index, applicable to all ships, is entirely consistent with 

IMO’s approach and within IMO’s mandate. This is not contentious and it is constructive. 

Further, it leads to sustainable development which some of our colleagues mentioned should be a 

pre-requisite, and which they agreed to negotiate. We certainly appreciate the flexibility. 

Mr. Chairman and distinguished delegates, let’s get past these unrealistic and divisive 

debate and focus on what IMO does best, solving problems and helping ensure the shipping 

industry grows. 

Statement by the delegation of Singapore 

Thus far, it appears that each of us have arrived at our own views of this GHG issue 

without the benefit of exchanging and sharing in depth over how we have each arrived at them. 

Given the unique nature, as well as complexity, of international shipping, and the relevant 

expertise residing here, we share the view that the IMO issue of GHG emission reduction from 

international shipping should be best and most appropriately discussed and deliberated at the 

IMO. 

At the same time, Singapore also understands the developing countries’ concerns on the 

need to take into account differing conditions amongst countries when deciding on measures to 

reduce GHG emissions. 

Hence, the Singapore delegation is of the view that it is important for the IMO to develop, 

as soon as possible, a framework to address the reduction of GHG emission from shipping. 

In particular, we look forward to the development of robust GHG reduction measures, namely the 

CO2 design index for new ships, guidelines for the CO2 operational index, and the guidance on 

best practices for fuel-efficient operations. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 12 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Concurrent to these efforts, the Singapore delegation further takes the view the IMO 

should also address the differing views amongst the members on the issue of application of the 

CBDR principle or, specifically, the feasibility of its application in international shipping in a 

way that is practical and effective. 

In this light, the study proposed by China and India, as raised by the Secretary-General’s 

opening address yesterday, could provide an opportunity for the IMO to address these differing 

views in a joint, concerted and objective manner, without prejudice or pre-judgement of its 

outcome, by a group consisting of experts from both Annex I and non-Annex I IMO Member 

States as well as the industry. 

Without prejudging the merits or demerits of the application of CBDR, we further take 

the view that the study on the feasibility of applying CBDR in international shipping should 

explore all possible options, in addition to the concept of “genuine ownership” which, as I recall, 

had been proposed by China and India in their study. 

Singapore is committed to work with all IMO members to move this issue forward in 

unity. 

Statement of the delegation of the Republic of Korea 

The matter of GHG reduction is believed a highly important issue which we can not avoid 

to solve. The Korean Government would like to congratulate on the progress made so far within 

IMO circle for the purpose. 

Korean Government, in principle, support the outcome so far by the intercessional WG 

even though we need more consideration in detail with respect to Design Index, Operational 

Index, market based measures and best practices, etc. 

Regarding the issue of CBDR, which we believe is a very important and political matter 

which needs deep consideration. We believe that the matter would be solved by various options, 

i.e. financial arrangement for technical cooperation and capacity building for less developed 

countries. 

Statement by the delegation of Venezuela 

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is well aware of the serious threat to mankind 

posed by climate change, and sees it as a problem which afflicts all countries, large and small, 

rich and poor. 

Nevertheless, with reference to the principle of “common but differentiated 

responsibilities”, Bolivia believes that while there is a common responsibility to promote 

agreements and arrangements of an inclusive nature in order to reduce the impact of climate 

change, we cannot overlook the differentiated responsibility that exists when one takes into 

account factors which since the industrial revolution have been harmful to the environment, as 

well as States’ capacity to address that challenge. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 13 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

With regard to GHG emissions from the international maritime sector, Venezuela rejects 

any provision advocating the application of equal treatment or non-differentiated action in 

measures to reduce emissions from shipping and thus affecting the interests of countries which 

are not party to Annex I of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, since 

the contrary approach would establish international obligations that currently do not exist and 

would ignore the decisions taken by the natural forum for addressing the problem of reducing 

greenhouse gases in general. 

Accordingly, Bolivia supports the comments made by China, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, India 

and others to the effect that the decisions to be taken on this matter in this forum should be 

guided by the “common but differentiated responsibilities” principle, since it is one that reflects 

the consensus of the international community. 

Statement by the delegation of Peru 

The delegation of Peru wishes to associate itself with the statements made by the 

delegations of China, India, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and others, which we feel reflect a large sector 

of opinion – perhaps even the majority – among the developing countries. 

We are aware of the importance of adopting measures that will be conducive to relieving 

or reducing the causes of the climate change that affects us all, and we are confident that every 

country will show both the goodwill and the determination needed to achieve specific targets for 

reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. 

We are aware of the efforts being made by the Secretary-General and by IMO as a whole 

to achieve tangible results, and we consider IMO to be the appropriate body to discuss matters 

relating to the pollution produced by global maritime transport, but we also believe that the 

measures which are adopted must be agreed by consensus and in accordance with the principle of 

“common but differentiated responsibilities” as established by the United Nations Global 

Conference on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. 

Statement by the delegation of the Philippines 

The Philippines recognizes the very important and central role that the IMO plays in 

respect of greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. The Philippines recognizes the 

special nature of international shipping and believes that the IMO should endeavour to have a 

global approach on this issue rather than unilateral or regional actions. 

Having said this, the Philippines believes that the IMO should fully respect the 

fundamental principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, as enshrined in the United 

Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Kyoto Protocol. The UNFCCC is a 

legally-binding agreement, with a near-universal membership, including most, if not all, Member 

States of the IMO. 

The Philippines agrees with the Secretary General and with other delegations who have 

spoken earlier that this issue should be resolved through consultations and consensus, in the spirit 

of co-operation. The Philippines is ready to work with all concerned States in seeking a 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 14 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

compromise solution that would address the issue of GHG from international shipping that 

respects the fundamental principles under the UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol. 

Statement by the delegation of Norway 

We have studied all documents and listen to the arguments presented regarding the 

possible introduction of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities on future 

measures for control of GHG emissions from international shipping. As we see it, the situation is 

very clear: 

The work this Committee does on GHG is mandated by the Assembly; it is a follow-up of 

the Assembly resolution A.963(23). Nothing in this resolution mandates the Committee to apply 

the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR). It is correct that the 

resolution refers to the Kyoto Protocol in a preambular paragraph, but delegates should recall 

how carefully this is drafted. Allow me to quote: 

“THE ASSEMBLY BEING AWARE ALSO that the Kyoto Protocol, which was 

adopted ....”

This paragraph in the resolution is simply an awareness of one specific article of the 

Kyoto Protocol. By just being aware of Article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol, the IMO Assembly 

does not adopt the principle of differentiated approach. On the contrary, the resolution does not 

single out any particular group of IMO Member States or any other group. The resolution clearly 

states that the Organization should take the lead in developing GHG limitation and reduction 

strategies and mechanisms for international shipping. The resolution clearly addresses emissions 

from international shipping, not parts of international shipping. The resolution clearly gives tasks 

to the Marine Environment Protection Committee. 

These are normal elements in policy resolutions, and in the view of this delegation, the 

text of the resolution gives no other signal than that of using the normal IMO principle of equal 

application in the further work on GHG emissions. 

If it was meant by the Assembly that the Committee should deviate from the normal IMO 

principle of equal application, and apply the CBDR on the issue of GHG, it would have been 

clearly addressed in the Resolution. In preparing the Assembly resolution, the MEPC did discuss 

how Article 2.2 of Kyoto Protocol should be understood, and which principle should be the basis 

for the IMO policy on GHG emissions from ships. Two documents, MEPC 49/4/4 by the United 

Kingdom and MEPC 49/4/6 by Norway, were submitted on that topic. Paragraph 4.9 of the 

report of MEPC 49 reflects the outcome of that discussion. The Committee: “agreed that the 

draft Assembly resolution on IMO Policies and Practices related to reduction of greenhouse gas 

emissions from ships should be based on a common policy applicable to all ships, rather than 

based on the provisions of Kyoto Protocol which states that the reduction of greenhouse gas 

emissions is under the responsibility of the Annex I countries of the Protocol”. 

We see no reason to present further arguments than those of MEPC 49/4/6 on the 

understanding of Article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol. There is however reason to note the 

fundamental difference between the Kyoto Protocol and the traditional IMO regime: 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 15 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

The obligation of a party to the Kyoto Protocol relates to the domestic emissions of that party. 

That gives reason for a differentiated approach. The IMO policy on GHG emissions from ships 

addresses emissions from international shipping which due to the characteristics of international 

shipping gives strong reasons for using the principle of equal application to parties. 

In addition, we have other examples which set precedence. There are several international 

environmental agreements which have a differentiated approach, yet when the IMO deals with 

the same issues, the principle of differentiated approach is not taken on board. Previously 

Norway has presented several examples, but in order to save time allow me to just mention one: 

The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The Montreal Protocol aims 

at protecting the ozone layer by the control of ozone depleting substances. The differentiated 

approach is embedded in Article 2 Control Measures and Article 5 Special Situation for 

Developing Countries of the Protocol. Yet, when the same issue is dealt with by the IMO, i.e. in 

Annex VI to MARPOL 73/78 (regulation 12), the differentiated approach is not being used. 

Before I conclude, I want to underline that Norway supports the inclusion of CBDR in 

international agreements it is needed, such as the Montreal Protocol and the Basel Convention. It 

is often a criterion for success in international legal agreements such as the UNFCCC. Equally, 

we should recognize that the principle of equal application for all ships regardless of their flag 

has been the key for success in IMO Conventions. 

In our view, future requirements on control of GHG emission from international shipping 

must apply equally to all ships (regardless of their flag). This principle will be crucial for a 

successful IMO response to the challenge of climate change. 

Statement by the delegation of Egypt 

Egypt greatly supports every international effort to control GHG emissions across all 

sectors, inter alia, maritime transport, provided that such measure does not harm developing 

economics that need gradual GHG emission control transition. 

To this end, Egypt deems emission Control Technologies to be incorporated into the 

currently operating fleets a possible short-term solution. On the long term, new cleaner 

technologies will enable full replacement of timeworn vessels and environment-polluting 

technologies. 

Concerning market-based instruments for controlling GHGs emissions from international 

maritime shipping, Egypt has fears of their uncertain influences. 

As per accrediting new standards and regulations for controlling air-born emissions 

resulting from international shipping, Egypt considers that they should follow a mechanism 

which enables gradual transition, especially for the developing countries. 

Any proposed control on air-born emissions, which could result in harmful burdens 

should be gradually applied in a manner that avoids or eliminates such harmful burdens. 

The Egyptian delegation very much supports China, India, Saudi Arabia and many others 

concerning the subject of controlling GHGs emissions. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 16 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Any rules or principles might have been reached through the work of IMO will have a 

great influence on all countries in relation to Kyoto Protocol and associated procedures and 

modalities. 

In the context of outlining its stance on reducing GHGs emissions in the global maritime 

transport sector, Egypt very much supports the change which could have been achieved under the 

Leadership and Guidance of the IMO. 

Statement by the delegation of Finland 

• The presentation yesterday of the GHG Study was very useful in highlighting the future 

trends in shipping and future emissions from shipping. We should bear this in mind in our 

work. 

• Finland supports the work within the IMO in order to develop regimes to reduce 

greenhouse gas emissions from INTERNATIONAL shipping – and in accordance with 

IMO principles, in the same way as for the other regulations of IMO. 

• We want to work together with all delegations with the aim to present in Copenhagen in 

December 2009 a solution: a “road map” or “navigation chart” how international shipping 

should contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. 

• At this session we should continue our work on technical issues, such as the ship design 

index. 

Statement by the delegation of Belgium 

This delegation agrees with what has been said by China and Brazil: the maritime sector 

has special characteristics and problems, meaning: complex and global aspects. Special problems 

require a specialized body. The only body specialized in this matter is the IMO. The main 

principle of this body is no more favourable treatment. Shipping, which is an environmental 

friendly transport mode, is at stake and must be protected. A global, non-discriminatory and 

binding solution to the GHG issue should therefore be found within the IMO. 

Statement by the delegation of Ghana 

 Encouraging the adoption of uniform application of the practicable highest standards in 

order to achieve the objectives of the IMO as re-echoed by USA, notwithstanding this laudable 

principle, the reality is that in exceptional cases there may be the need to consider the respective 

capabilities of contracting Parties to the IMO Convention. It is in the light of this respect that 

some compromises and understanding regarding the needs and predicaments of the poorly 

resourced countries need to be considered. 

In this connection we wish to associate ourselves with statements made by Brazil, China, 

India and many others. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 17 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

We particularly wish to emphasize the call of Mr. Ntuli of South Africa, endorsed by the 

Secretary-General, for some consensus building regarding GHG emissions as in Annex VI. 

Statement by the delegation of Chile 

This delegation would like first to state its acknowledgement that IMO continues to be the 

competent forum to discuss the topic of reducing the greenhouse gas emissions from 

international maritime transport. 

We are convinced that the Organization will be capable of finding effective technical 

solutions to tackle this problem. 

Likewise, we support what has been said by Brazil, China and others about the 

importance of those solutions being consistent with the principles agreed in the United Nations 

Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. 

Chile reiterates its firm commitment to the International Maritime Organization and to 

continuing to work with it towards a solution that is satisfactory to us all, in accordance with the 

spirit of consensus within the Organization. 

Statement by the delegation of Namibia 

This delegation would like to take this opportunity to first of all welcome the Kook 

Islands as a member of IMO. 

Secondly, we would like to state that, the issue of Green House Gas Emission (GHG) is a 

really challenge to the world in general and IMO in particular. Hence, common approach and 

consensus are required. This delegation is equally aware that, GHG is not only the complicated 

subject matter that IMO and MPC had or has to deal with. There are a number of such issues e.g. 

UNCLOS and ILO emanated matters that we successfully handled. 

The issue at hand require similar approach by the IMO. Thus, the work of an 

interssesional meeting of the working group on GHG held in Oslo this year be continued. Also, 

we propose for a formal and permanent joint IMO-UNFCCC Session. 

Having said that, this delegation would like to associate itself with the views expressed by 

distinguished delegates of Brazil, India China and others. 

Statement by the delegation of The Netherlands 

The Netherlands can support the views that IMO measures on Greenhouse Gases will not 

be in conflict with the Kyoto Protocol and that the IMO measures should be developed on the 

basis of universal rules which should apply without discrimination to all ships engaged in 

international trade – the “no more favourable treatment” principle, and therefore the documents 

of China, Brazil and India regarding the application of the Kyoto Protocol principle “common but 

differentiated responsibilities” can not be supported. We also do not foresee the need for further 

studies on this topic in the coming period. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 18 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

If reductions in Greenhouse Gases emissions from ships are to benefit the environment as 

a whole, the IMO measures to reduce these emissions should apply globally to all ships, 

regardless of their flag. 

Our view can maybe illustrated by an example already used earlier in this debate: 

If the Kyoto Protocol principle will be used the following situation can be encountered: two 

exactly identical sister ships, same company but one flying the flag of an Annex I country and, 

the other that of a non-Annex I country, loaded in the same port, sailing at the same speed, 

emitting the same amount of CO2 and having the same destination will be treated differently 

because they are registered under two different flags? 

And another example: 

How to apply a mandatory CO2 design Index which should then differentiate between 

Annex I and non-Annex I flags, when the at the time of construction of a ship it is unclear 

which flag will be selected or later will sail? 

Therefore if the IMO measures are applied only to ships flying the flag of an Annex I 

country, representing approximately a quarter to a third of the worlds’ fleet, the contribution of 

the shipping industry to reduce global Greenhouse Gases emissions would be minimal and that 

should not be our objective. 

Finally, we very much welcome that China and India want to continue the dialogue here 

at MEPC to reach consensus, which is also the wish of my delegation. 

Statement by the delegation of Australia 

• Australia would like to support the views put forward by the delegation of the United 

States, Norway, Finland, Netherlands and others. 

• Australia respects the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities as it applies 

in the context of UNFCCC. 

• But Australia would question the effectiveness of applying a principle that would exclude 

more than 70 per cent of the worlds shipping fleet from having to reduce emissions. 

• The IMO has the responsibility for addressing emissions from this sector because of the 

global nature of the international shipping industry – it therefore requires action that is 

global and non-discriminatory. 

• The unique and integrated global nature of international shipping means that there are no 

apparent equity grounds for discrimination based on the national origin of the carrier. 

• Effective international action on this issue requires all countries to make a concerted 

effort to act to mitigate emissions. Any other approach risks the distortion of 

international markets for no environmental benefit. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 19 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statement by the delegation of the Russian Federation 

The Russian Federation shares the international community’s concern at the problem of 

climate change, and supports IMO’s efforts to take measures to reduce GHG emissions from 

ships. 

We consider that IMO, as the specialized body in the UN system, should first develop 

technical rules applicable to all shipping at the global level. These rules should be transparent, 

practicable and effective. Of course, they should not contradict other international instruments. 

The Russian Federation supports the development of technical regulations and rules to 

limit GHG emissions from ships; these should be applicable to all ships, regardless of flag in the 

context of individual IMO instruments. 

As to Article 2.2 of the Kyoto Protocol, we understand China’s concern regarding the 

scope of application and the need to have a more precise mandate from the Kyoto Protocol. 

At the same time, in seeking to achieve IMO’s objectives we must act in unison and not 

hamper the process of establishing efficient global and other mechanisms in the framework of the 

Organization. 

Statement by the delegation of Uruguay 

This delegation supports the comments of Brazil, China, India and others and shares that 

UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol are the appropriate instruments for general consensus to reduce 

the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and underlines the importance of technical discussions to 

address the issue of reducing the GHG emissions from shipping. 

Statement by the delegation of Japan 

My intervention is mostly in the same line as USA delegates elaborated. Japan respects 

CBDR in UNFCCC. However, at IMO, we have to stick to the principle of no more favourable 

treatment. That means no discrimination among IMO Member States. There may be other ways 

to reflect upon CBDR including Technical Cooperation. However, when it comes to mandatory 

requirements at the IMO, we need equal treatment of all ships. This does not require Member 

States to use the same principle in other forum. I hope we can clarify this point, and I sincerely 

hope that we can go ahead and start discussion on the technical issues. 

Statement by the delegation of Iran (Islamic Republic of) 

There is no doubt that GHG from the ships constitutes of a great concern and therefore 

something should be done to reduce it in global level. That is why we are sitting here and hearing 

interesting debates among us Member States in a friendly atmosphere. However, there are some 

substantial questions, doubts and concerns regarding technical, legal and practical aspects which 

have to be carefully addressed by this Organization. We think that what actually have been 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 20 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

stated by distinguished delegations of China, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and many others are clear 

enough to express the challenges we are facing now. The Islamic Republic of Iran also supports 

them. We hope the Committee could solve the problems and difficulties associated with GHG 

and reach a consensus solution. 

Statement by the delegation of the United Kingdom 

The United Kingdom accepts and totally agrees that this Organization must take action on 

the subject of Greenhouse Gas emissions from shipping. We believe that parties within IMO 

should agree on a package of technological and operational measures to reduce greenhouse gas 

emissions from ships at the IMO Assembly in late 2009 and that the IMO should then be 

able to report good progress to the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties in Copenhagen in 

December 2009. 

The United Kingdom unequivocally supports the Secretary-General’s goal to deliver a 

global solution. That solution must apply irrespective of the nationality (i.e. flag) of a particular 

ship. Any system must limit the risks of “carbon leakage” and trade distortion by the transfer of 

goods to shipping not covered by the system or to alternative less efficient transport modes. 

The process must provide incentives to the shipping industry to improve its carbon efficiency, 

reduce emissions at minimum cost, and send a message to the world that the industry is serious 

about making its fair contribution to combating climate change. As a result, we are firmly of the 

opinion that a global greenhouse emissions trading scheme for ships may best provide these 

incentives. Any proposed regional action should not be an end in itself but a step towards the 

global solution. We believe that discussions on the benefits of economic instruments should 

continue within IMO, with the ultimate goal a new legal instrument, to be developed under the 

auspices of IMO, which would be separate from the existing MARPOL 73/78. 

In respect of the proposed CO2 design index for new ships, the United Kingdom will 

support its mandatory application to new ships. 

Turning now to the difficult subject of “common but differentiated responsibilities” 

(CBDR). Whilst the United Kingdom supports the principle of CBDR and respective 

capabilities in general, we do not accept that CBDR excludes Non-Annex I parties to the 

UNFCCC from taking action to reduce GHG emissions from shipping. 

This delegation believes that CBDR should be applied on the basis of respective 

capabilities. This is because the shipping industry in many non-Annex I countries is as developed 

as those in Annex I Countries. In many cases there is no link between the nationality of the 

owner of a vessel and a flag state, so differentiation between ships in a global scheme on the 

basis of nationality of ownership is inappropriate. 

Finally whilst the United Kingdom is not opposed in principle to the concept of a levy on 

marine bunker fuels we do have our concerns that it would not sufficiently achieve the overall 

objective of reducing GHG emissions from shipping. Furthermore, as the United Kingdom, we 

are unable to support a fund for which revenues are raised by other bodies and from which 

revenues are specifically allocated because this conflicts with the United Kingdom national 

taxation policy. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 21 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

The United Kingdom believes that it is imperative that the IMO are seen to be taking 

action on this politically sensitive issue. We would strongly urge the Committee to push for a 

global solution. 

Statement by the delegation of Bolivia 

This delegation wishes first to express its appreciation for IMO’s efforts to reduce 

greenhouse gas emissions from ships by various methods, under the slogan “IMO’s response to 

current environmental challenges”. This work was carried out mainly through the Marine 

Environment Division and the Marine Environment Protection Committee; the impressive 

volume of documents submitted for the latter’s regular sessions indicates in a clear and 

unmistakeable manner the extent of the efforts that have been made. 

This delegation also recognizes and supports the proposal submitted by the delegations of 

India, China, Brazil and seconded by others including Argentina, namely that, without question, 

the measures devised must be in accordance with the principle of “common but differentiated 

responsibilities” under the Kyoto Protocol, since that is an international legal instrument in force 

which in its wisdom commits the industrialized countries to an international agreement to take a 

genuine leading role in implementing measures which are effective but in no way impinge on the 

interests of the developing countries; we thus do not agree with the application of economic and 

financial measures but with technical procedures devised through IMO which genuinely help to 

reduce the pollution levels from ships. 

Statement by the delegation of the Marshall Islands 

This delegation has noted with interest the debate this morning, and would also like to see 

the technical issues advanced here, as IMO is the competent forum for discussing such issues for 

the reduction of emissions from maritime transport. 

 

Marshall Islands is also a co-sponsor of the submission to this session which supports the 

principle that any IMO instrument concerning Green House Gas reduction should be binding and 

equally applicable to all ships without requiring States to adopt similar regulations or standards in 

other fora. 

 

Accordingly we would also associate ourselves with the comments of the United States 

and others.

Statement by the delegation of Vanuatu 

Pacific Micro States are already and will be among the first countries impacted by sea rise 

level direct consequence of global warming. 

 

Some Pacific Micro States are already scheduled to disappear. This is the reason why 

Vanuatu, although classified as a least developing state, is in favour of a global solution. 

Excluding more than 65% of the world fleet will not enable us to meet the expected 

targets. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 22 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statement by the delegation of New Zealand 

On the matter at hand, and in the interests of time, so that we move on to the technical 

discussions as soon as possible, New Zealand would like to associate itself with the comments of 

the United States, the Netherlands, Australia and others. We thank the Secretary-General for his 

focus on this important subject and we agree with your proposal, Mr Chair, that the discussion 

on the design and operational indices should be with a view to reaching agreement on the 

technical aspects, and that the discussion on application should take place separately. 

In addition, it would be desirable if the Working Group could prepare for this Committee a 

programme of future work outputs. 

Statement by the delegation of Ecuador 

After listening to the general declarations and the statements mentioned by the 

distinguish delegations of China, Brazil and India, this delegation considers that the International 

Maritime Organization (IMO) has to take notice of the principle of Common but Differentiated 

Responsibilities; and also believes that the United Nations Convention on Climate Change and 

the Kyoto Protocol are binding instruments, equally considers of great importance to come to 

an agreement base on consensus. 

Statement by the delegation of Denmark 

I will refrain from making a general statement, as our views have already been covered by 

the statements of France and USA. However, I need to make a few points on the statements so far 

on this issue. 

IMO is not an organization acting on a mandate from a “superior body”. IMO is the 

superior body when it comes to regulating international shipping. 

The Kyoto Protocol Article 2.2 is clear. It is a political commitment for Annex I countries 

to pursue limitations on reductions of Green House Gases from marine bunkers in general 

working through the IMO. This should, however, not be perceived as a commitment in respect of 

ships flying the flag of an Annex I country only. If that was the case, it would mean that 168 

Member States assembled in the IMO would draft regulations covering only 38 Member States. 

That would be a very odd situation and really makes no sense. 

Furthermore, we do not see any need for further studies on the principle of Common but 

Differentiated Responsibilities. 

Finally, in the view of this delegation it seems that the timing vis-à-vis COP15 seems to 

be the key to a compromise. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statement by the delegation of Sweden 

UNFCCC sets out global GHG reduction objectives which have to be accomplished by 

industry sectors through implementing reduction measures. Maritime transport has as well a 

responsibility to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The work itself according to the Kyoto 

Protocol (Article 2.2) shall be done within the IMO – the only proper forum to discuss and 

regulate questions related to the maritime industry. Consequently this work shall be conducted 

according to the IMO’s working principles. 

Up to date IMO regulations have been applied to all ships regardless their flag and 

without exemptions. There are exemptions from some rules. Those, however, are based on 

parameters such as year of construction of a ship, technical characteristics or ship types. 

There are no grounds for differentiation of ships based on their nationality or ownership or other 

similar factors while discussing potential IMO instruments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

The fundamental principle of “no favourable treatment” shall always apply within IMO. 

The task of IMO is to regulate international shipping and not other sectors. 

Thus commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping shall not be seen as 

a precedent for countries’ commitments in other fora. 

Time has now come to move ahead and discuss concrete global measure for the short as 

well as the long perspective. 

Statement by the delegation of Spain 

After listening carefully the views from 38 countries, I would not make a global statement 

and I will just state that: 

Firstly, Spain recognizes the very important and central role that the IMO plays in respect 

of greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. 

Secondly, this issue should be resolved through consensus from all States Members. 

Thirdly, a global approach on this issue rather than differentiated actions. 

 

Statement by the delegation of Indonesia 

First of all, this delegation would like to express our appreciation to all effort has been 

made by all member states to achieve best solution in the matter arise. 

With regards to Green House Gas emission reduction from the international shipping, 

Indonesia is of the view that these are tasks of all nations, and we should share responsibilities in 

addressing this challenge. Therefore, the efforts in doing so should be collective and global ones. 

 

However, Indonesia is also of the view that the efforts taken by the member countries 

of the IMO should also be part of the endeavour carried out by the UNFCCC and in accordance 

with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respected capabilities. 

This is a fundamental principle which has been accepted by world community since 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 24 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Rio Summit 16 years ago and has been guiding our collective and global endeavour in tackling 

climate change issue under the framework of UNFCCC. 

The Bali Conference that successfully produced the Road Map to 2012 regime which was 

agreed by developing and developed countries was made possible because this very important 

principle provides guidance in formulating the best, fair and yet workable method in sharing the 

burden of talking the climate change, which requires an enormous reduction of green house gas 

emission and carbon sinks. The principle is not assigning blame upon nations, but instead, 

underlines that each nation has responsibilities to address the issue of climate change while also 

urges partnership among nations and encourages each of nations to contribute according to their 

capabilities. 

Hence it is very pivotal that member countries of IMO, in our effort to formulate the best 

and workable way to contribute in our global effort to reduce the green house gas emission from 

international shipping should also taking into serious account the critical and important ongoing 

international negotiation on climate change that is currently being carried out. Any attempt that is 

not in accordance with the agreed principle of the state parties to the UNFCCC and its Protocol 

would not only hampering the process for concluding the negotiation for creating a post Kyoto 

regime, but also undoing all the hard work that has been done in tackling the climate change. 

Having said that, this delegation would like to associate with intervention made by China, 

India, Brazil and others. 

Statement by the delegation of Colombia 

This delegation supports the comments made by the delegations of China, Brazil, India 

and others, and wishes to emphasize that this is a matter which must be addressed in a 

comprehensive manner involving the UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol and IMO. We also wish to 

emphasize the importance of the “common but differentiated responsibilities” principle as a 

matter of priority, and that relevant account must be taken of Article 4.7 of the UNFCCC. 

Statement by Friends of the Earth International (FOEI) 

FOEI is puzzled by the discussion on the reduction of GHG emissions from shipping so 

far. Are we discussing Common but Differentiated interests today? It almost seems as if GHG 

emissions is someone else’s problem. However, each year more alarming information is coming 

in on the devastating effects of CO2 emissions. 

We should stop passing on the problems we have created to next generations. We should 

guarantee our children and grandchildren that this planet in the future will be a clean and safe 

home for all. 

Finally, I would like to wish the Secretary General and you Mr. Chairman strength and 

wisdom in solving this problem. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 25 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statement by International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) 

Briefly, Sir, IACS will provide its input to this week’s discussions with the aim that the 

Organization is in the best possible position to report positively to the 2009 Copenhagen 

Conference. Indeed, supporting the work of the IMO in addressing GHG emissions from ships 

has been recognized as a priority at the highest level within IACS. As a “technical” Association, 

the Committee will not be surprised to hear that our input will be “technically-based” – a 

rationale that we believe is entirely consistent with the “technically-based” decision-making 

process that is so well established in this Organization. 

In particular, IACS believes that it can facilitate the development of a technically robust, 

effective in terms of addressing greenhouse gas emissions, and practically implementable Design 

CO2 Index for new ships. 

However, to assist in achieving this objective of reporting positively to the Copenhagen 

Conference as to what our industry has agreed it will do to address greenhouse gas emissions 

from ships, IACS stands ready to provide whatever advice and assistance we can to the 

Committee. 

Statement by World Wide Fund Nature (WWF) 

Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, WWF is dedicated to securing a global 

climate change deal in Copenhagen that is effective and comprehensive, that is, one that covers 

all sources, including international aviation and shipping. 

The inclusion of international shipping means finding a way to resolve the UNFCCC 

principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities with IMO 

globally applicable regulations and it is clear that members currently disagree on how this could 

be done. 

WWF seeks solutions that benefit the environment. A differentiated deal is better for the 

environment than no deal at all, and time is short if the Committee is to present options in time 

for the UNFCCC’s COP 15 in Copenhagen. Therefore we would like the committee to explore 

ways to break the current deadlock and request the opportunity to present a new framework that 

would respect both principles, in line with the requests raised by the distinguished delegates of 

China, Brazil, India, and the others that have spoken this morning. 

Very briefly – our document, MEPC 58/4/39, explored methods for differentiating 

commitments between Annex I and non-Annex I, and found that the only promising method is to 

apply a scheme to all ships on routes to Annex I ports. However, a possibility of evasion through 

extra port calls in non-Annex I countries was raised. 

Since our paper was submitted a new option has emerged which we believe merits 

detailed considerations this week. 

This option is global but differentiated. It is for a market-based scheme only. Therefore it 

does not apply to technical and operational measures. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 9 

Page 26 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Policy differentiation is based on cargo imported and applies to all ships, irrespective of 

flag or nationality. 

A ship transporting goods to both Annex I and non-Annex I countries is partially 

included, in proportion to the percentage of goods that it transports to Annex I countries. 

This means that only a share of a ship’s CO2 emissions is scope. 

Finally, the proposed policy will also deliver on the seven GHG principles discussed at 

the MEPC 57. 

We, therefore, request that an appropriate group be given the chance to discuss this new 

proposal that could potentially resolve the deadlock on “global but differentiated rules” in the 

area of market-based instruments, and respect an important principle raised by the 

Secretary-General, namely that regulation of GHG from shipping remain the responsibility 

of IMO. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 10 

STATEMENTS BY THE DELEGATONS OF INDIA AND GREECE 

ON MARKET-BASED MEASURES TO CONTROL GHG EMISSIONS FROM SHIPS 

Statement by the delegation of India 

In order to address climate change, one has to be serious about changing the way the 

world generates and uses its energy. The rich world has talked about “decarbonization” of its 

economy, but it has done little to reinvent its energy system. 

We are working overtime to shift the burden of reducing the emissions to the developing 

world. It is appropriate that we channel this energy to put forward a framework for an effective 

climate agreement for the entire world. The framework must be based on two principles: one to 

share the global commons equitably, because we know that co-operation is not possible without 

justice; two, to create conditions so that the world, particularly the energy deprived world, can 

make the transition to a low carbon economy. 

The root of this problem is the fact that atmospheric common has been the lack of rights 

to this global ecological niche. Countries drew heavily, without control, emitted greenhouse 

gases far in excess to what the earth can withstand. This was because of careless free use of this 

ecological niche. Some researchers have called this the natural debt of the North against the 

financial debt of the South. In this situation, curtailing the emissions can only be done through 

the creation of rights and entitlements of each nation to the atmosphere, so that the future 

responsibilities are clearly demarcated. In other words, the world needs to adopt the concept of 

equal per capita entitlements on GHG Emissions. 

Climate change is a make or break challenge before the world. It forces us, perhaps for 

the first time in our history to realize that we exist as one in one Earth. It tells us that there are 

limits to growth, and growth will have to be shared among all. The big question is how we 

address this challenge in an equitable way keeping the interest of all nations and people. 

The feasibility of market-based measures as proposed are still immature and further 

studies need to be carried out to address all contentious issues with respect to shipping. 

Therefore it is proposed that: 

IMO to establish a Techno-Economic independent group of Experts on Maritime Affairs 

and the Environment which will carry out an in-depth study on how the Principles of Common 

but Differentiated Responsibility as mentioned in the Kyoto Protocol of the UNFCCC can be 

applied to international shipping with respect to reduction and control of GHG emissions from 

bunker fuels used on ships. The impact on the industries concerned and safety of the vessels 

built under the context of Energy Efficiency Design Index. They must report back to IMO within 

six months. 

The Group should have equal representations from both Annex I and the non-Annex I 

countries and all Member States should be invited to nominate their experts for the Group. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 10 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Statement by the delegation of Greece on document MEPC 58/4/25 (France, Germany and 

Norway) 

Greece has very serious concerns and opposes to market-based proposals, such as ETS for 

shipping and a cap-on-levy, until their added value on energy efficiency to be achieved by world 

fleet, their multifaceted impact on international shipping and their indiscriminate and smooth 

implementation are demonstrated under a scientific, technical, operational and political 

background. We would like also to express our concerns for modal shift to less efficient transport 

industry compared to other transport modes, especially in Short Sea Shipping. 

We would like also to recall that at the 1stIntersessional meeting of the GHG Working Group 

in Oslo in June 2008 the conclusion was that “it was not possible to develop further the ETS proposal 

at this meeting and that interested parties should co-operate in submitting refined proposals”. 

Regrettably to say, the joint submission MEPC 58/4/25 by the three countries does not 

provide such a refined proposal. On the contrary, new information came into light recently from 

very reliable sources, such as the very interesting and informative paper prepared by DNV 

and LRS and presented by Norway at the present session as MEPC 58/INF.14, where proposed 

measures to reduce CO2 emissions could grab most of emissions from international shipping, 

despite the anticipated growth in seaborne trade, at least by 2008 emissions baseline, even with 

technology which is available today. 

In addition, the recent study commissioned by WWF/UK to the renewed Dutch Institute, 

CE Delft, a member of the international consortium, who is currently carrying out the IMO 

updated study, also revealed very important results that cannot be ignored. This Study has not yet 

disseminated officially for information at this MEPC meeting, but it has already been finalized. 

One of its main conclusions is that a Maritime Emission Reduction Scheme, whether 

international or specific, is in fact rather ineffective, since it does provide possibility for evasion

by shipowners, and has a mitigated impact on subsistence in developing countries in terms of 

food imports, tourism, and adaptation costs. 

In view of the above-mentioned reasons, we are against this proposal and we would like 

this statement to be reflected in the report of this meeting. 

Statement by the delegation of Greece on document MEPC 58/4/22 (Denmark) 

We would like to recall our previous statement towards the document MEPC 58/4/25 and 

to kindly remind the distinguished delegates that during the Oslo meeting a number of delegates 

viewed global levy on maritime bunker fuel as an international tax and strongly opposed its 

implementation as it entailed a range of difficult legal issues, and they continue to review it so 

at MEPC 58. 

The imposition of a global levy would eventually lead in the increase of cost for seaborne 

trade which in turn will be passing on to the “end-consumers” without benefiting the 

environment as long as fuel prices remain at today’s high. 

Therefore, we are against and we reserve our position towards the Danish proposal. 

We would like this statement to be reflected in the report of this meeting. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 11 

DRAFT INTERIM GUIDELINES ON THE METHOD OF CALCULATION OF 

THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY DESIGN INDEX FOR NEW SHIPS 

 The attained new ship Energy Efficiency Design Index is a measure of ships CO2

efficiency and is: 

*

 If a shaft generator is provided, the Normal Maximum Sea Load can be calculated using 

SFCME instead of SFCAE 

Where: 

1 CF is a non-dimensional conversion factor between fuel consumption measured in g and 

CO2 emission also measured in g based on carbon content. The subscripts MEi and AEi refer to the 

main and auxiliary engine respectively. 

(Refer to the 2006 IPCC Guidelines and paragraph 15 of MEPC 58/4/3) 

2 Vref is the ship speed, measured in nautical miles per hour (knot), on deep water in the 

maximum design load condition (Capacity) as defined in paragraph 3 at the output of the 

engine(s) as defined in paragraph 5 and assuming the weather is calm with no wind and no 

waves. The maximum design load condition shall be defined by the deepest draught with its 

associated trim, at which the ship is allowed to operate. This condition is obtained from the 

stability booklet approved by the Administration. 

3 Capacity is defined as follows:

.1 For dry cargo carriers, tankers, gas tankers, container ships, ro-ro cargo and 

passenger ships and general cargo ships, deadweight should be used as Capacity. 

.2 For passenger ships, gross tonnage in accordance with the International 

Convention on Tonnage10 measurement of ships 1969, Annex I, regulation 3

should be used as Capacity. 

4 Deadweight means the difference in tonnes between the displacement of a ship in water 

of relative density of 1.025 at the deepest operational draught and the lightweight of the ship. 

5 P is the power of the main and auxiliary engines, measured in kW. The subscripts ME and 

AE refer to main and auxiliary engine, respectively. The summation on i is for all engines with the 

number of main engines (nME). 

 

10 Displacement can also be used. 

ref W

eff FMEi MEi

neff

i

FAE AE eff

nPTI

i

nWHR

i

AE FAE AE PTIi WHRi

nME

i

FMEi MEi MEi

M

j

j

f Capacity V f

f C SFC P P C SFC P P C SFC f P C SFC

i















  − 

 



  + + −  





















∏ ∑ ∑ ∑ ∑ =1 =1 = = 1 1 =1

*
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 11 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 PME(i) is 75% of the rated installed power (MCR) for each main engine (i). 

.2 PPTI(i) is 75% of the rated power consumption of shaft motors. 

.3 PWHR is the rated electrical power generation of waste heat recovery system at 

PME(i). 

.4 Peff is the main engine power reduction due to innovative energy efficient 

technology. 

.5 PAE is the required auxiliary engine power to supply normal maximum sea load 

including necessary power for machinery, systems, equipment and living on board 

in the condition where the ship engaged in voyage at the speed (Vref) under the 

design loading condition of Capacity. 

.1 For ships with a main engine power of 10000 kW or above PAE, is defined 

as: 

PAE(MCRME>10000KW) = 0,025 250

1

 +



 





× ∑=

nME

i

MCR MEi

.2 For ships with a main engine power below 10000 kW PAE, is defined as:

PAE(MCRME<10000KW) = ∑=×

nME

i

MCRMEi

1

0,05

6 Vref, Capacity, and P should be consistent with each other. 

7 SFC is the designed specific fuel consumption, measured in g/kWh, of the engines at the 

power output of P determined by paragraph 5. The subscripts MEi and AEi refer to the main and

auxiliary engine, including any boilers, respectively. The auxiliary engine Specific Fuel 

Consumption (SFCAE) is that recorded on the EIAPP Certificate11 at the engines 50% of PAE

MCR power or torque rating. 

8 fj are corrections to account for ship specific-design elements: 

The fj coefficient for ice-classed ships is determined by the standard fj “table/curve” 

which is to be contained in the Guidelines. 

9 fW is a non-dimensional coefficient indicating the decrease of speed in representative sea 

conditions of wave height, wave frequency and wind speed (e.g., Beaufort Scale 6), and should 

be determined as follows: 

 

11 EIAPP Certificate is the Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate which relates to 

NOx emissions. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 11 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 It can be determined by conducting the ship-specific simulation of its performance 

at representative sea conditions. The simulation methodology should be prescribed 

in the Guidelines developed by the Organization and the method and outcome for 

an individual ship shall be verified by the Administration or an organization 

recognized by the Administration. 

.2 In case that the simulation is not conducted, fW value should be taken from the 

“standard fW ” table/curve. A “Standard fW ” table/curve, which is to be contained 

in the Guidelines, is given by ship type (the same ship as the “baseline” below), 

and expressed in a function of the parameter of Capacity (e.g., DWT). 

The “Standard fW ” table/curve is to be determined by conservative approach, 

i.e. based on data of actual speed reduction of as many existing ships as possible 

under representative sea conditions. 

.3 fW should be taken as 1.0 until the Guidelines for the ship-specific simulation 

(paragraph .1) or fW table/curve (paragraph .2) becomes available. 

10 feff is the availability factor of any innovative energy efficient technology. 

11 fi is the capacity factor for any technical/regulatory limitation on capacity, and can be 

assumed one (1.0) if no necessity of the factor is granted. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 12 

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE SECOND INTERSESSIONAL 

MEETING OF THE WORKING GROUP ON GHG EMISSIONS FROM SHIPS 

Taking into account submissions for the intersessional meeting and relevant background 

documents, the second Intersessional Meeting of the Working Group on Greenhouse Gas 

Emissions from Ships is instructed to: 

Taking into account the outcome of MEPC 58: 

.1 regarding the Energy Efficiency Design Index for new ships, consider 

towards finalization: 

.1 the Energy Efficiency Design Index formula taking into account 

any trial application of the Index by calculation; 

.2 the regulatory text using annex 6 to document MEPC 58/4 as a 

basis, including baseline (MEPC 58/4/8 and MEPC 58/4/34); 

 .3 the verification procedure; and 

.4 any necessary associated guidelines; 

.2 consider towards finalization the review of the interim guidelines on the 

Energy Efficiency operational index (MEPC/Circ.471); 

.3 consider towards finalization the introduction of a management tool for all 

ships, taking into account the Ship Efficiency Management Plan 

considered during MEPC 58; 

.4 consider towards finalization the guidance on best practices and other 

voluntary operational measures including reference text to be incorporated 

in the regulatory framework; 

.5 consider possible impacts on the shipping sector from the measures 

envisaged; and 

.6 present a written report to MEPC 59. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 13 

RESOLUTION MEPC.176(58) 

Adopted on 10 October 2008 

AMENDMENTS TO THE ANNEX OF THE PROTOCOL OF 1997 TO AMEND THE 

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE PREVENTION OF POLLUTION FROM 

SHIPS, 1973, AS MODIFIED BY THE PROTOCOL OF 1978 RELATING THERETO 

(REVISED MARPOL ANNEX VI) 

[See MEPC 58/23/Add.1] 

*** 

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 14 

RESOLUTION MEPC.177(58) 

Adopted on 10 October 2008 

AMENDMENTS TO THE TECHNICAL CODE ON CONTROL OF EMISSION OF 

NITROGEN OXIDES FROM MARINE DIESEL ENGINES 

(NOX TECHNICAL CODE 2008) 

[See MEPC 58/23/Add.1] 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 15 

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE BLG SUB-COMMITTEE TO UPDATE OR 

DEVELOP GUIDELINES REQUIRED UNDER THE REVISED MARPOL ANNEX VI 

AND THE NOX TECHNICAL CODE 2008 

In view of the adoption of revised Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code 2008 at 

MEPC 58, the BLG Sub-Committee is instructed, taking into account any relevant submissions 

to MEPC 58 and to BLG 13, to: 

.1 update the following guidelines, taking into account any documents submitted to 

MEPC 58 and the discussions at MEPC 58 which are reflected in its report, with a 

view to adoption at the 59th or 60th session of the Committee: 

.1 Guidelines for monitoring the world-wide average sulphur content of 

residual fuel oils supplied for use onboard ships (resolution 

MEPC.82(43)); 

.2 Guidelines for the sampling of fuel oil for determination of compliance 

with MARPOL Annex VI (resolution MEPC.96(47)); 

.3 Amendments to the revised survey guidelines under the Harmonized 

System of Survey and Certification (resolution MEPC.128(53)); and 

.4 Guidelines for port State control under MARPOL Annex VI 

(resolution MEPC.129(53)); 

.2 develop the following draft guidelines, with a view of adoption at the 59th 

or 60th session of the Committee: 

.1 Guidelines for replacement engines not required to meet the Tier III limit, 

as required under regulation 13.2.2; 

.2 Guidelines on the provision of reception facilities, as required by 

regulation 17.2; 

.3 Any relevant guidelines pertaining to the equivalents set forth in 

regulation 4 and not covered by other guidelines such as the Guidelines for 

Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (MEPC.170(57)); 

.4 Guidelines for the development of a VOC management plan, as required 

by regulation 15.6; and 

.5 Guidelines called for under paragraph 2.2.5.6 of the revised 

NOX Technical Code 2008; 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 15 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.3 taking into account future developments, consider what guidance, if any, should 

be developed by the Committee on the following issues, including the form that 

such guidance should take: 

.1 water as a primary control measure, emulsification, charge air 

humidification or direct injection; 

 .2 selective catalytic reduction units or other secondary NOX control devices; 

.3 gas fuels, natural gas or other gases as well as NOX Technical Code 

calculation factors and specific issues relating to the testing of engines so 

fuelled; 

.4 fuel oils from non-conventional or non-petroleum sources; tar sands, 

shales, synthetic fuels or bio-diesels from various source materials as well 

as NOX Technical Code calculation factors and specific issues relating to 

the testing of engines so fuelled and the variations resulting from fuels 

derived from different sources and/or processing methods; and 

.5 any procedures concerning approval of the Approved Methods 

(regulation 13.7 of the revised MARPOL Annex VI) which refer to the 

revised NOX Technical Code 2008; 

.4 submit a written report to MEPC 59. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 16 

RESPONSE TO GESAMP REGARDING EGCS INTERIM 

WASHWATER GUIDELINES 

BACKGROUND 

During development of the guidelines it was assumed that 45 m3/MWh would be the 

typical discharge rate of a sea water scrubber. Hence the discharge rate of pH, PAH and turbidity 

are based on this flow rate. 

Ship type Auxiliary engine load in port EGCS running in port 

Container ship, 8,000 TEU 4,000 kW, HFO Yes 

Container ship, 1,000 TEU 300 kW, MGO No 

 Roro 600 kW, MGO No 

 Roro 600 kW, HFO Yes 

Product tanker, 40,000 dwt 1,000...2,000 kW, HFO Yes 

Ferry, large 2,500 kW, HFO Yes 

Table 1. This table shows some indicative engine loads for some selected ship types. 

Considerable variation may exist between individual ships. 

1 GESAMP assumes that the washwater discharge will be continuous, while the ships 

engines are running; is this correct? What are the total quantities of washwater 

envisaged to be discharged per day on a range of ships? Is there any difference in 

discharge rate with different engine loads? 

There are sea water (SW) and fresh water (FW) scrubbers. Sea water scrubbers typically 

have a continuous discharge, while freshwater scrubbers often do not. Both types of scrubbers 

can be turned off while the engine is operating. There are different scrubber technologies, some 

of which have a low discharge rate of wash water. For these FW systems a holding tank can be 

arranged, permitting the engines and EGC systems to be operated with a zero discharge of wash 

water for a limited period of time. Sea water scrubbers have a typical discharge rate 

of 45 m3

/MWh, while fresh water scrubbers have around 0.1-0.3 m3/MWh. For an average ship 

power of perhaps 10 MW, this corresponds to 450 m3

/h for SW scrubbers and 1-3 m3/h for 

FW scrubbers, in sea-going conditions. In ports, harbours and estuaries the continuous engine 

power is considerably lower (see table above), and some ships do not use scrubbers at all in 

ports. Main engines are typically used at reduced load only during arrivals and departures. It is 

expected that some systems will operate with reduced flow when operating the engine at low 

load. Other systems operated at constant flow will obviously discharge a cleaner effluent at 

reduced engine load. 

2 10.1.2.1(i). The washwater discharge water should have a pH limit of no less than 6.5 

at the overboard discharge [when static] with the exception that during 

maneuvering or transit the maximum difference between inlet and outlet of 2 pH 

units is allowed. 

 Presumably intake seawater, brackish or freshwater would have a pH of between 7.0 

to 8.3 meaning that the outlet could be at a minimum pH of 5.0 to 6.3. GESAMP 

questioned why two different criteria were necessary here and if one could suffice, 

especially when more rapid dilution would be available with a moving ship? Some 

clarification of the underlying reasoning would be appreciated. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 16 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

 What action should be taken should these and any other monitored values be 

exceeded? 

10.1.2.1(i): The background for two different criteria is the possibility to adopt a more 

stringent criterion for stationary ships in ports when the main engine is not running, while still 

having an appropriate criterion for moving ships considering the dilution effect. Potential reasons 

for not achieving required pH values in the discharge water could either be a technical failure or 

setting in the system, or low alkalinity in the sea inlet water. In the scrubber manufacturer’s 

manual, recommendations on corrective actions would be provided. These could include using a 

different fuel, reducing engine power, inspection of wash water treatment systems for 

malfunctions etc. 

3 10.1.2.1(ii) Please explain the significance of measuring pH at 4 m from the ship 

during commissioning? 

10.1.2.1(ii): The regulation offers two alternative compliance methods for pH, one of 

which is measuring the pH at a distance of 4 m, considered the boundary of an initial mixing 

zone as per the CORMIX (used e.g., by United States EPA) principle. 

4 10.1.5 This section refers to nitrate measurements etc. However, section 10.2 on 

monitoring does not say how this will be achieved – please clarify. 

10.1.5: The rationale of the nitrate limit differs from other criteria. The nitrate criterion 

was established to limit the amount of nitrate permitted to be discharged in case of a hypothetical 

scrubber also removing extensive amounts of NOX beyond the soluble NO2 fraction likely to be 

at least partly removed. The role of the other criteria is to monitor the performance of the wash 

water treatment system during its lifetime. The manufacturer should demonstrate compliance 

with the nitrate criterion in the certification phase based on a sample to be analysed in laboratory 

conditions. The main point is to mitigate the risk of eutrophication. 

5 10.2 Washwater monitoring. 

Which measurements are envisaged for measurement onboard (in-line or stand 

alone) and which on land at a laboratory? 

Bearing in mind that some measurements will need to be carried out onboard, how 

will analytical instruments be adequately maintained and calibrated, including any 

in-line sensors, as well as measurement and recording units? 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 16 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

In general, the group wondered why simple water quality measurements such as 

temperature and dissolved oxygen had been omitted. Monitoring for oxygen 

depletion could provide additional environmental protection.

10.2: Required online monitoring requirements are specified in section 10.2, being pH, 

PAH and turbidity. Instrument maintenance and calibration requirements are to be described in 

the mandatory Onboard Monitoring Manual (OMM) to the satisfaction of the Administration 

(Section 8). Nitrate is to be sampled and analysed in lab conditions in the certification stage. 

Dissolved oxygen and temperature of the discharge water were initially considered. However, it 

was determined after reviewing plume test measurements and following extensive discussions 

through IMO working groups, that the effects of temperature and oxygen depletion were 

negligible. 

6 In Appendix 11, it is unclear when sampling should take place, please specify for the 

sake of clarity for operators. 

Appendix II: Sampling could be made during approval testing and at about twelve-month 

intervals for a period of two years. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 17 

UNIFIED INTERPRETATION TO PARAGRAPHS 6, 7, 8 AND 11.8 

OF REGULATION 12A OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

1 The distance “h” should be measured from the moulded line of the bottom shell plating at 

right angle to it (regulation12A, Figure 1). 

1.1 For vessels designed with a skeg, the skeg should not be considered as offering protection 

for the FO tanks. For the area within skeg’s width the distance “h” should be measured 

perpendicular to a line parallel to the baseline at the intersection of the skeg and the moulded line 

of the bottom shell plating as indicated in Figure A. 

Figure A 

1.2 For vessels designed with a permanent trim, the baseline should not be used as a reference 

point. The distance “h” should be measured perpendicular to the moulded line of the bottom shell 

plating at the relevant frames where fuel tanks are to be protected. 

2 For vessels designed with deadrising bottom, the distance “1.5h” should be measured 

from the moulded line of the bottom shell plating but at right angle to the baseline, as indicated in 

Figure B. 

Figure B 

3 Paragraphs 1 and 2, above also apply to the reference to the distance “h” in regulation 12A-11.8. 

***

h

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 18 

UNIFIED INTERPRETATION TO REGULATION 23.7.3.2 (ACCIDENTAL OIL 

OUTFLOW PERFORMANCE) OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

The pressure “p” is to be taken as the maximum static inert gas pressure that is obtained at the 

discharge side of the non-return device fitted forward of the deck water seal or 5 kPa, whichever 

is greater. However, p need not be taken more than the maximum tank pressure corresponding to 

the P/V valve set-point. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 19 

DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 5.8 OF THE SUPPLEMENT TO 

THE IOPP CERTIFICATE (FORM B) OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

Note: Additions/Deletions

5.8 Double-hull construction 

5.8.1 The ship is required to be constructed in accordance with regulation 19 and 

complies with the requirements of: 

.1 paragraph (3) (double-hull construction) □

.2 paragraph (4) (mid-height deck tankers with □

double side construction) 

.3 paragraph (5) (alternative method approved by □

the Marine Environment Protection Committee) 

5.8.2 The ship is required to be constructed in accordance to □

and complies with the requirements of regulation 19.6 

(double bottom requirements) 

5.8.3 The ship is not required to comply with the requirements of □

regulation 19 

5.8.4 The ship is subject to regulation 20 and: 

.1 is required to comply with paragraphs 2 to 5, 7 and 8 

of regulation 19 and regulation 28 in respect of 

paragraph 28.6 not later than:________ □

.2 is allowed to continue operation in accordance □

with regulation 20.5 until ________ 

.3 is allowed to continue operation in accordance with □

regulation 20.7 until ________ 

5.8.9 The ship is not subject to regulation 20: 

.1 The ship is less than 5,000 tonnes deadweight □

.2 The ship complies with regulation 20.1.2 □

.3 The ship complies with regulation 20.1.3 □
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 19 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

5.8.9 The ship is subject to regulation 21 and: 

.1 is required to comply with regulation 21.4 not □

later than: ________ 

.2 is allowed to continue operation in accordance □

with regulation 21.5 until ________ 

.3 is allowed to continue operation in accordance □

with regulation 21.6.1 until _______ 

.4 is allowed to continue operation in accordance □

with regulation 21.6.2 until _______ 

.5 is exempted from the provisions of regulation 21 □

in accordance with regulation 21.7.2. 

5.8.9 The ship is not subject to regulation 21: 

.1 The ship is less than 600 tonnes deadweight □

.2 The ship complies with regulation 19 □

(Deadweight tonnes ≥ 5,000)

.3 The ship complies with regulation 21.1.2 □

.4 The ship complies with regulation 21.4.2 □

(600 ≤ Deadweight tonnes < 5,000)

.5 The ship does not carry ”heavy grade oil” as defined □

 in regulation 21.2 of MARPOL Annex I

5.8.9 The ship is subject to regulation 22 and: 

.1 complies with the requirements of regulation 22.2 □

.2 complies with the requirements of regulation 22.3 □

.3 complies with the requirements of regulation 22.5 □

5.8.9 The ship is not subject to regulation 22 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 20 

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE OPRC-HNS TECHNICAL GROUP 

1 The OPRC-HNS Technical Group, hereafter called the Technical Group, has been 

established as a subsidiary body of MEPC pursuant to a decision taken by the Committee at its 

forty-eighth session (MEPC 48/21, paragraph 18.12). 

2 Under the direct instructions of the Marine Environment Protection Committee, the 

Technical Group will consider matters related to the following subjects, including the 

development of any necessary amendments to relevant conventions and other mandatory and 

non-mandatory instruments, preparation of guidelines and recommendations, for consideration 

by the Committee as appropriate, and the role of such measures for the protection of the marine 

environment: 

.1 technical matters related to oil and HNS pollution preparedness, response and 

co-operation, which impact or have the potential to impact the marine 

environment, including the development of manuals, guidance documents and 

training material; 

.2 sharing and lessons learned from the response to incidents involving oil and/or 

HNS and identification of best practices; 

.3 keeping abreast of and sharing information on research and development and 

state-of-the-art technologies and information related to oil and HNS pollution 

preparedness and response; and 

.4 assisting the Organization in performing the functions placed on it, in particular, 

under article 12 of the OPRC Convention and article 10 of the 

OPRC-HNS Protocol. 

3 The conventions and other mandatory instruments referred to above include, as a 

minimum: 

 .1 the OPRC Convention 1990 and OPRC-HNS Protocol 2000; and 

 .2 MARPOL 73/78, in particular, regulations 37 and 17 of Annexes I and II, 

respectively. 

4 The non-mandatory instruments, referred to in paragraph 2 above, which the Technical 

Group may be called on to review include, as a minimum: 

 .1 recommendations and guidelines relevant to preparedness for and response to 

pollution incidents involving oil and/or HNS. 

5 The working arrangements of subsidiary bodies as defined in the “Guidelines on the 

organization and method of work of the Maritime Safety Committee and the Marine 

Environment Protection Committee and their subsidiary bodies” shall apply to the Technical 

Group. In particular, the Committee shall approve the work programme of the Technical Group
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 20 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

and decide whether a new item should be included. When a Member Government considers a 

matter is of sufficient urgency and importance, a well-documented proposal may be submitted 

simultaneously to the Committee and to the Technical Group; however, any further work by the 

Technical Group on such a proposal should be subject to the approval of the Committee. 

6 The Technical Group shall normally meet the week prior to MEPC and shall report back 

to the Committee at its subsequent session. 

7 The Technical Group shall elect its Chairman and Vice-Chairman, for a renewable period 

of one year. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 21 

WORK PROGRAMME OF THE OPRC-HNS TECHNICAL GROUP 

Priority Title and reference to strategic 

directions, high-level actions and 

planned outputs for 2008-2009

Target 

completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed 

for completion 

Reference 

1 Co-operation with other 

organizations 

 Strategic direction: 1.1 

 High-level action: 1.1.2 

 Planned output: 1.1.2.1

Continuous MEPC 57/WP.1, section 6 

2 Technical Co-operation 

implementation on OPRC and HNS 

 Strategic direction: 7.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.3 

 Planned output: 7.2.3.1

Continuous MEPC 57/WP.1, section 7 

Manual and guidance documents 

H.1 • Manual on chemical pollution to 

address legal and administrative 

aspects of HNS incidents 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: 7.1.2.9

2011 

5 sessions 

MEPC 55/23, 

paragraph 7.19; 

MEPC 57/WP.1, 

paragraph 3.22 

H.2 • Manual on oil pollution: 

Section I – Prevention 

 Strategic direction: 7.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.3 

 Planned output: 7.1.2.12 

2010 

4 sessions 

MEPC 54/WP.1, 

paragraph 9.5; 

MEPC 57/WP.1, 

paragraph 3.6 

H.3 • Guidance document on 

identification and observation of 

spilled oil 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: -

2010 

4 sessions 

MEPC 52/24, 

paragraph 7.10.3; 

MEPC 56/WP.1, 

paragraph 9.5 

H.4 • Technical guidelines on sunken 

oil assessment and removal 

techniques 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: -

2010 

4 sessions 

MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 7.12.9; 

MEPC 57/WP.1, 

paragraph 3.39 

 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 21 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Priority Title and reference to strategic 

directions, high-level actions and 

planned outputs for 2008-2009

Target 

completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed 

for completion 

Reference 

H.5 • Manual on Incident Command 

System during oil spill response

 Strategic direction: 7.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.3 

 Planned output: -

2010 

4 sessions 

MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 7.6; 

MEPC 56/WP.1, 

paragraph 9.6.2 

H.6 • Guideline for oil spill response in 

fast currents 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: -

2010 

4 sessions 

MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 7.6; 

MEPC 56/WP.1, 

paragraph 9.6.1 

L.1 • Oil Spill Response in Ice and Snow 

Conditions 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: -

2012 MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 7.6; 

MEPC 56/WP.1, 

paragraph 9.6.3 

L.2 • Guideline for oil spill response – 

offshore in-situ burning 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: -

2012 MEPC 57/21, 

paragraph 6.8 

L.3 • Updating of IMO Dispersant 

Guidelines 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: - 

2012 MEPC 57/21, 

paragraph 6.8 

Training 

H.7 • Introductory IMO model courses 

on preparedness and response to 

HNS pollution incidents in the 

marine environment 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: 7.1.2.10

2009 

2 sessions 

MEPC 51/22, 

paragraph 7.4.1; 

MEPC 57/WP.1, section 4 

H.8 • OPRC Train-the-Trainer Course 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: 7.1.2.11

2009 

1 session 

MEPC 54/WP.1, 

paragraph 4.14; 

MEPC 57/WP.1, section 4 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 21 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

Priority Title and reference to strategic 

directions, high-level actions and 

planned outputs for 2008-2009

Target 

completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed 

for completion 

Reference 

Information services and exchange 

3 • Summary of incidents involving 

HNS and lessons learnt 

 Strategic direction: 4.2 ,7.1, 

13.2 

 High-level action: 4.2.1, 

7.1.4, 

13.2.1 

 Planned output: 4.2.1.1, 

7.1.1.2, 

13.2.1.2

Continuous MEPC 56, 

paragraph 7.12.15; 

MEPC 57/WP.1, 

paragraph 5.11 

H.9 • Comparative study and 

development of guidelines on 

shoreline clean-up assessment 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: -

2009 

2 sessions 

MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 7.12.9; 

MEPC 5/WP.1, 

paragraph 3.24 

H.10 • Evaluation of the Fourth R&D 

Forum on HNS in the marine 

environment 

 Strategic direction: 7.2, 13.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.3, 

13.2.1 

 Planned output: - 

2010 

3 sessions 

MEPC 55/23, 

paragraph 7.2.3; 

MEPC 55/WP.1, 

paragraph 5.5 

L.4 • Technical guidelines on waste 

management (based on the 

Mediterranean Waste Management 

Study) 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: - 

2010 

*** 

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 22 

PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR TG 9 

Opening of the session 

1 Adoption of the agenda 

2 Decisions of other bodies 

3 Manuals and guidance documents 

.1 Manual on chemical pollution to address legal and administrative aspects of 

HNS incidents; 

.2 Manual on oil pollution, Section I – Prevention; 

.3 Guidance document on the identification and observation of spilled oil; 

.4 Technical guidelines on sunken oil assessment and removal techniques; 

.5 Manual on Incident Command System during oil spill response; and 

.6 Guideline for oil spill response in fast currents. 

4 Training 

5 Information services and exchange 

.1 Evaluation of the Fourth R&D Forum on HNS in the marine environment; 

.2 Summary of incidents involving HNS and lessons learnt; and 

.3 Comparative study and development of guidelines on shoreline clean-up 

assessment. 

6 Co-operation with other organizations 

7 Technical co-operation implementation on OPRC and HNS 

8 Work programme and provisional agenda for TG 10 

9 Any other business 

10 Report to the Committee 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 23 

STATEMENT BY THE DELEGATION OF CUBA 

ON RECEPTION FACILITIES 

We had looked forward to coming to this fifty-eighth session of the MEPC to report to 

IMO not only on Cuba’s incorporation into its national legislation of MARPOL Annex V, to 

which Cuba became a State Party in July 2008, but also on the arrangements and equipment we 

had put in place to ensure the adequacy of our reception facilities for MARPOL wastes at our 

main ports. However, hurricanes Gustav and Ike, which devastated the whole of our national 

territory, passing one after the other within the space of seven days, have severely damaged the 

results of all those efforts to bring our reception facilities into compliance with the MARPOL 

regulations, just as they were about to become operational. 

We recognize the dedicated work that IMO has devoted, since its inception, to improving 

the infrastructures of maritime administrations in developing countries, through assistance, by 

assigning experts, and by promoting project funding together with donor countries. 

The aim of this intervention, therefore, is to request IMO, in principle, for technical 

assistance that would enable us together to find a viable way to make good those reception 

facilities. On our return to Cuba, we will submit an official request to IMO. 

The Cuban Government is also offering IMO the use of Cuban experts with many years’ 

experience in all areas of maritime administration, for the benefit of developing countries. 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 24 

DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO MARPOL ANNEX I TO ADD 

CHAPTER 8 – PREVENTION OF POLLUTION DURING TRANSFER OF 

OIL CARGO BETWEEN OIL TANKERS AT SEA 

1 The following chapter 8 is added: 

“CHAPTER 8 – PREVENTION OF POLLUTION DURING TRANSFER OF OIL 

CARGO BETWEEN OIL TANKERS AT SEA 

Regulation 40 

Scope of application 

1 The regulations contained in this chapter apply to any oil tanker of 150 gross 

tonnage and above engaged in transfer of oil cargo between oil tankers at sea (STS 

operations) and their STS operations conducted on or after [15 months after the date the 

newly added chapter 8 will enter into force]. However, STS operations conducted before 

that date but after the provision of STS Plan required in regulation 41.1 shall be in 

accordance with the STS Plan as far as possible.

 

2 The regulations contained in this chapter shall not apply to oil transfer operations 

associated with fixed or floating platforms including drilling rigs, floating production, 

storage and offloading facilities (FPSOs) used for the offshore production storage, or 

transfer of oil, and floating storage units (FSUs) used for the storage or transfer of 

produced oil1

.

3 The regulations contained in this chapter shall not apply to bunkering operations. 

4 The regulations contained in this chapter shall not apply to STS operations 

necessary for the purpose of securing the safety of a ship or saving life at sea, or for 

combating specific pollution incidents in order to minimize the damage from pollution. 

5 The regulations contained in this chapter shall not apply to STS operations where 

either of the ships involved is a warship, naval auxiliary or other ship owned or operated 

by a State and used, for the time being, only on government non-commercial service. 

However, each State shall ensure, by the adoption of appropriate measures not impairing 

operations or operational capabilities that the STS operations are conducted in a manner 

consistent, so far as is reasonable and practicable, with this chapter. 

Regulation 41 

General Rules on safety and environmental protection 

1 Any oil tanker involved in STS operations shall carry on board a Plan prescribing 

how to conduct STS operations (STS Plan) not later than the date of the first annual, 

intermediate or renewal survey of the ship to be carried out on or after [the date the newly 

 

1 Revised Annex I of MARPOL, chapter 7 (resolution MEPC.117(52)) and UNCLOS article 56 are applicable and 

address these operations. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 24 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

added chapter 8 will enter into force]. Each oil tanker’s STS Plan shall be approved by its 

Administration. The STS Plan shall be written in the working language of the ship. 

2 The STS Plan shall be developed taking into account information contained in 

best practice guidelines for STS operations identified by the Organization.2

 The STS Plan 

may be incorporated into an existing Safety Management System required by chapter IX 

of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, if that 

requirement is applicable to the oil tanker in question. 

3 Any oil tanker subject to this chapter and engaged in STS operations shall comply 

with its STS Plan. 

4 The person in overall advisory control of STS operations shall be qualified to 

perform all relevant duties, taking into account the qualifications contained in best 

practice guidelines for STS operations identified by the Organization.3

5 Records4

 of STS operations, shall be retained on board for three years and be 

readily available for inspection by a Party to the present Convention. 

Regulation 42 

Notification 

1 Any oil tanker subject to this chapter that plans STS operations within the 

territorial sea [, or the exclusive economic zone] of a Party to the present Convention 

shall notify the relevant Coastal State Party not less than 48 hours in advance, of the 

scheduled STS operations. 

2 Notification shall be given to the Coastal State Party specified in paragraph 1 of this 

regulation5

, and shall include at least the following: 

.1 name, flag, call sign, IMO Number and estimated time of arrival (ETA) of 

 the oil tankers involved in the STS operations; 

.2 date, time and geographical location at the commencement of the planned 

 STS operations; 

.3 whether STS operations are to be conducted at anchor or underway; 

.4 oil type and quantity; 

.5 planned duration of operation; 

 

2 IMO’s “Manual on Oil Pollution, Section I, Prevention” as amended, and the ICS and OCIMF “Ship-to-ship 

Transfer Guide, Petroleum”, fourth edition, 2005. 3 IMO’s “Manual on Oil Pollution, Section I, Prevention” as amended, and the ICS and OCIMF “Ship-to-ship 

Transfer Guide, Petroleum”, fourth edition, 2005. 4

 Revised Annex I of MARPOL chapters 3 and 4 (resolution MEPC.117(52)); requirements for recording 

bunkering and oil cargo transfer operations in the Oil Record Book, and any records required by the STS Plan. 5 The national operational contact point as listed in document MSC-MEPC.6/Circ.4 of 31 December 2007 or its 

subsequent amendments. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 24 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.6 identification of Ship-to-Ship provider or person in overall advisory 

control and contact information; and 

.7 confirmation that the oil tanker has on board an STS Plan meeting the 

requirements of regulation 41. 

3 If the ETA of an oil tanker at an STS operations’ location or area changes by more 

than six hours, the master, owner or agent of that oil tanker shall provide a revised ETA 

to the relevant Coastal State Party to the present Convention specified in paragraph 1 of 

this regulation.” 

2 In the Record of Construction and Equipment for Oil Tankers, Form B, new section 8A is 

added as follows: 

“8A Ship-to-ship oil transfer operations at sea 

(regulation 41) 

8A.1 The oil tanker is provided with an STS Plan in compliance 

 with regulation 41 ” 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 25 

DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO REGULATIONS 1, 12, 13, 17 

AND 38 OF MARPOL ANNEX I

Regulation 1 – Definitions 

1 The following new subparagraphs .31, .32, .33 and .34 are added after existing 

subparagraph .30: 

“.31 Oil residue (sludge) is the residual waste oil products generated during the 

normal operation of a ship such as those resulting from the purification of fuel or 

lubricating oil for main or auxiliary machinery or separated waste oil from oil 

filtering equipment or waste oil collected in drip trays, and waste hydraulic and 

lubricating oils. 

.32 Oil residue (sludge) tanks are the tanks which hold oil residue (sludge) directly 

from which sludge may be disposed through the standard discharge connection or 

any other approved means of disposal 

.33 Oily bilge water means water which may be contaminated by oil resulting e.g., 

from leakage or maintenance work in machinery spaces. Any liquid entering the 

bilge system including bilge wells, bilge piping, tank top or bilge holding tanks is 

considered oily bilge water. 

.34 Oily bilge water holding tanks are tanks collecting oily bilge water prior to its 

discharge, transfer or disposal.” 

Regulation 12 – Tanks for oil residues (sludge) 

2 Paragraph 1 is amended to read as follows: 

1 Every ship of 400 gross tonnage and above shall be provided with a tank or tanks 

of adequate capacity, having regard to the type of machinery and length of 

voyage, to receive the oil residues (sludge) which cannot be dealt with otherwise 

in accordance with the requirements of this Annex. 

3 The following new paragraph 2 is inserted, after the existing paragraph 1: 

“2 Oil residues (sludge) may be disposed of directly from the oil residue (sludge) 

tank(s) through the standard discharge connection referred to in regulation 13, or any 

other approved means of disposal. The tank(s): 

.1 shall be provided with a designated pump for disposal that is capable of 

taking suction from the oil residue (sludge) tank(s); 

.2 shall have no discharge connections to bilge system, oily bilge water 

holding tanks, tank top or oily water separators other than the tank(s) may 

be fitted with drains, with manually operated self-closing valves, for the 

collection of settled water or an alternative arrangement, provided such 

arrangement does not connect directly to the bilge piping system.” 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 25 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

4 Existing paragraphs 2 and 3 are renumbered 3 and 4, respectively. 

Regulations 12, 13, 17 and 38 

5 The word “sludge” in regulations 12.2, 13, 17.2.3, 38.2 and 38.7 is replaced by the words 

“oil residue (sludge)”. 

6 The words “and other oil residues” in regulation 17.2.3 are deleted. 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 26 

DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE IOPP CERTIFICATE FORM A (SHIPS OTHER 

THAN OIL TANKERS) AND FORM B (OIL TANKERS)

The existing Section 3 of the Supplement to the IOPP Certificate, Form A and Form B, is 

replaced by the following: 

“3 Means for retention and disposal of oil residues (sludge) (regulation 12) and oily 

bilge water holding tank(s)*

3.1 The ship is provided with oil residue (sludge) tanks for retention of oil residues (sludge) 

on board as follows: 

Tank location 

Tank identification 

Frames (from)-(to) Lateral position Volume (m3

) 

 

 Total volume: ...... m3

3.2 Means for the disposal of oil residues (sludge) retained in oil residues (sludge) tanks: 

3.2.1 Incinerator for oil residues, maximum capacity kW or kcal/h (delete as appropriate) 

 .............................................................................................................................. 

3.2.2 Auxiliary boiler suitable for burning oil residues................................................ 

3.2.3 Other acceptable means, state which ................................................................... 

3.3 The ship is provided with holding tank(s) for the retention on board of oily bilge water as 

follows: 

Tank location 

Tank identification 

Frames (from)-(to) Lateral position 

Volume (m3

) 

 

 Total volume: ...... m3

” 

***

 

* Oily bilge water holding tank(s) are not required by the Convention, if such tank(s) are provided they shall be 

listed in table 3.3. 

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 27 

DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE OIL RECORD BOOK PARTS I AND II 

1 Sections (A) to (H) of the Oil Record Book Part I are replaced by the following: 

“(A) Ballasting or cleaning of oil fuel tanks 

1 Identity of tank(s) ballasted. 

2 Whether cleaned since they last contained oil and, if not, type of oil previously carried. 

3 Cleaning process: 

.1 position of ship and time at the start and completion of cleaning; 

.2 identify tank(s) in which one or another method has been employed (rinsing through, 

steaming, cleaning with chemicals; type and quantity of chemicals used, in m3

); 

.3 identity of tank(s) into which cleaning water was transferred and the quantity in m3

. 

4 Ballasting: 

.1 position of ship and time at start and end of ballasting; 

.2 quantity of ballast if tanks are not cleaned, in m3

. 

(B) Discharge of dirty ballast or cleaning water from oil fuel tanks referred to under 

Section A) 

5 Identity of tank(s). 

6 Position of ship at start of discharge. 

7 Position of ship on completion of discharge. 

8 Ship’s speed(s) during discharge. 

9 Method of discharge: 

.1 through 15 ppm equipment; 

.2 to reception facilities. 

10 Quantity discharged, in m3

. 

(C) Collection, transfer and disposal of oil residues (sludge) 

11 Collection of oil residues (sludge). 

Quantities of oil residues (sludge) retained on board. The quantity should be recorded 

weekly1

: (this means that the quantity must be recorded once a week even if the voyage 

lasts more than one week): 

.1 – identity of tank(s) 

.2 – capacity of tank(s) .................................................................... m3

.3 – total quantity of retention ......................................................... m3

.4 – quantity of residue collected by manual operation .................. m3

(Operator initiated manual collections where oil residue (sludge) is transferred 

into the oil residue (sludge) holding tank(s).) 

12 Methods of disposal or transfer of residue. 

State quantity of oil residues transferred or disposed of, the tank(s) emptied and the 

quantity of contents retained in m3

: 

 

1 Only those tanks listed in item 3.1 of form A and B of the supplement in the IOPP Certificate used for oil 

residues (sludge).
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 27 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.1 to reception facilities (identify port)2; 

.2 to another (other) tank(s) (indicate tank(s) and the total content of tank(s)); 

.3 incinerated (indicate total time of operation); 

.4 other method (state which). 

(D) Non-automatic starting of discharge overboard, transfer or disposal otherwise of 

bilge water which has accumulated in machinery spaces 

13 Quantity discharged, transferred or disposed of, in cubic metres.3

14 Time of discharge transfer or disposal (starts and stop). 

15 Method of discharge transfer, or disposal: 

.1 through 15 ppm equipment (state position at start and end); 

.2 to reception facilities (identify port)2

; 

.3 to slop tank or holding tank or other tank(s) (indicate tank(s); state quantity 

retained in tank(s), in cubic metres). 

(E) Automatic starting of discharge overboard, transfer or disposal otherwise of bilge 

water which has accumulated in machinery spaces 

16 Time and position of ship at which the system has been put into automatic mode of 

operation for discharge overboard, through 15 ppm equipment. 

17 Time when the system has been put into automatic mode of operation for transfer of bilge 

water to holding tank (identify tank). 

18 Time when the system has been put into manual operation. 

(F) Condition of the oil filtering equipment 

19 Time of system failure4. 

20 Time when system has been made operational. 

21 Reasons for failure. 

(G) Accidental or other exceptional discharges of oil 

22 Time of occurrence. 

23 Place or position of ship at time of occurrence. 

24 Approximate quantity and type of oil. 

25 Circumstances of discharge or escape, the reasons therefore and general remarks. 

(H) Bunkering of fuel or bulk lubricating oil 

26 Bunkering: 

.1 Place of bunkering. 

.2 Time of bunkering. 

.3 Type and quantity of fuel oil and identity of tank(s) (state quantity added, in 

tonnes and total content of tank(s)). 

 

2 Ship’s masters should obtain from the operator of the reception facilities, which includes barges and tank trucks, 

a receipt or certificate detailing the quantity of tank washings, dirty ballast, residues or oily mixtures transferred, 

together with the time and date of the transfer. This receipt or certificate, if attached to the 

Oil Record Book Part I, may aid the master of the ship in proving that his ship was not involved in an alleged 

pollution incident. The receipt or certificate should be kept together with the Oil Record Book Part I. 3

 In case of discharge or disposal of bilge water from holding tank(s), state identity and capacity of holding 

tank(s) and quantity retained in holding tank. 4

 The condition of the oil filtering equipment covers also the alarm and automatic stopping devices, if applicable. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 27 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

.4 Type and quantity of lubricating oil and identity of tank(s) (state quantity added, 

in tonnes and total content of tank(s)). 

2 Section (J) of the Oil Record Book Part II is replaced by the following: 

“(J) Collection, transfer and disposal of residues and oily mixtures not otherwise dealt 

with 

55 Identity of tanks. 

56 Quantity transferred or disposed of from each tank. (State the quantity retained, in m3

.) 

57 Method of transfer or disposal: 

.1 disposal to reception facilities (identify port and quantity involved); 

.2 mixed with cargo (state quantity); 

.3 transferred to or from (an)other tank(s) including transfer from machinery space 

oil residue (sludge) and oily bilge water tanks (identify tank(s); state quantity 

transferred and total quantity in tank(s), in m3

); and 

.4 other method (state which); state quantity disposed of, in m3

.” 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 28 

UNIFIED INTERPRETATION TO REGULATION 12.1 OF MARPOL ANNEX I 

The current Unified Interpretation 15.1.5 to regulation 12.1 of MARPOL Annex I is replaced by 

the following: 

“15 Capacity of sludge tanks 

15.1.5 For ships where the building contract is placed, or in the absence of a building

contract, the keel of which is laid before 1 July 2010, and which are fitted with 

homogenizers, sludge incinerators or other recognized means on board for the control of 

sludge, the minimum sludge tank capacity should be: 

.5.1 50% of the value calculated according to item .4 above; 

or 

.5.2 1 m3 for ships of 400 gross tonnage and above but less than 4,000 gross 

tonnage or 2 m3 for ships of 4,000 gross tonnage and above; whichever is 

the greater.” 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 29 

REVISED WORK PROGRAMME OF THE BLG SUB-COMMITTEE 

AND PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR BLG 13 

Target 

completion 

date/number 

of sessions 

needed for 

completion 

Reference 

 1 Evaluation of safety and pollution 

hazards of chemicals and 

preparation of consequential 

amendments

 Strategic direction: 7.2 and 1.3 

 High-level action: 7.2.2 and 1.3.3 

 Planned output: 7.2.2.1 and 

1.3.3.1 

Continuous BLG 10/19, section 3; 

BLG 11/16, section 3 

 2 Casualty analysis (coordinated by 

FSI) 

 Strategic direction: 12.1 

 High-level action: 12.1.2 

 Planned output: 12.1.2.1 to .2 

Continuous MSC 70/23, 

paragraphs 9.17 and 20.4; 

MSC 80/24, 

paragraph 21.6; 

BLG 12/17, section 9 

 3 Consideration of IACS Unified 

Interpretations 

 Strategic direction: 1.1 

 High-level action: 1.1.2 

 Planned output: 1.1.2.1 

Continuous MSC 78/26, 

paragraph 22.12; 

BLG 12/17, section 10 

H.1 Environmental and safety aspects of 

alternative tanker designs under 

MARPOL, Annex I, regulation 19 

 Strategic direction: 7.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.2 

 Planned output: 7.2.2.1 

 BLG 3/18, 

paragraph 15.7 

 .1 assessment of alternative tanker 

designs, if any (as necessary) 

Continuous BLG 1/20, section 16; 

BLG 4/18, paragraph 15.3 

______________ 

Notes: 1 “H” means a high priority item and “L” means a low priority item. However, within the high and low 

priority groups, items have not been listed in any order of priority. 

2 Items printed in bold letters have been selected for the provisional agenda for BLG 13. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 29 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

Sub-Committee on Bulk Liquids and Gases (BLG) (continued) 

 Target 

completion 

date/number 

of sessions 

needed for 

completion 

Reference 

H.2 Development of provisions for 

gas-fuelled ships (in cooperation 

with FP and DE) 

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.1 

 Planned output: 5.2.1.1 

2009 MSC 78/26, 

paragraph 24.11; 

BLG 12/17, section 7 

H.3 Development of guidelines and 

other documents for uniform 

implementation of the 2004 

BWM Convention 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.2 

 Planned output: 7.1.2.2 to .5 

2010 MEPC 52/24, 

paragraph 2.21.6; 

BLG 12/17, section 5 

H.4 Application of the requirements 

for the carriage of bio-fuels and 

bio-fuel blends 

 Strategic direction: 7.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.2 

 Planned output: 7.2.2.1 

2009 MEPC 55/23, 

paragraphs 19.4 and 19.5; 

BLG 12/17, section 4 

H.5 Development of international 

measures for minimizing the 

transfer of invasive aquatic species 

through bio-fouling of ships 

 Strategic direction: 7.1 

 High-level action: 7.1.1 

 Planned output: - 

2010 MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 19.12; 

BLG 12/17, section 11 

H.6 Review of the Recommendation for 

material safety data sheets for 

MARPOL Annex I cargoes and 

marine fuel oils 

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.3 

 Planned output: 5.2.3.1 

2009 BLG 11/16, 

paragraph 14.14; 

MSC 83/28, 

paragraph 25.8; 

BLG 12/17, section 12 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 29 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

Sub-Committee on Bulk Liquids and Gases (BLG) (continued) 

 Target 

completion 

date/number 

of sessions 

needed for 

completion 

Reference 

H.7 Revision of the IGC Code 

(in cooperation with FP, DE, SLF 

and STW as necessary) 

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.1 

 Planned output: - 

2010 MSC 83/28, 

paragraph 25.7; 

BLG 12/17, section 13 

H.8 Safety requirements for natural 

gas hydrate pellet carriers 

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.1 

 Planned output: - 

2011 MSC 83/28, 

paragraph 25.6 

H.9 Review of relevant non-mandatory 

instruments as a consequence of 

the amended MARPOL Annex VI 

and the NOX Technical Code 

 Strategic direction: 7.3 

 High-level action: 7.3.1 

 Planned output: 7.3.1.1 

+ 

2010 BLG 12/17, 

paragraph 6.88.9 

H.10 Amendments to MARPOL 

Annex I on the use and carriage 

of heavy grade oil on ships in 

the Antarctic area 

 Strategic direction: 7.2 

 High-level action: 7.2.2 

 Planned output: - 

2010 BLG 12/17, 

paragraph 16.12 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 29 

Page 4 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

REVISED PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR BLG 13∗

 Opening of the session 

1 Adoption of the agenda 

2 Decisions of other IMO bodies 

3 Evaluation of safety and pollution hazards of chemicals and preparation of consequential 

amendments 

4 Application of the requirements for the carriage of bio-fuels and bio-fuel blends 

5 Development of guidelines and other documents for uniform implementation of 

the 2004 BWM Convention 

6 Development of provisions for gas-fuelled ships 

7 Casualty analysis 

8 Consideration of IACS Unified Interpretations 

9 Development of international measures for minimizing the transfer of invasive aquatic 

species through bio-fouling of ships 

10 Review of the Recommendation for material safety data sheets for MARPOL Annex I 

cargoes and marine fuel oils 

11 Revision of the IGC Code 

12 Safety requirements for natural gas hydrate pellet carriers 

13 Review of relevant non-mandatory instruments as a consequence of the amended 

MARPOL Annex VI and the NOX Technical Code 

14 Amendments to MARPOL Annex I on the use and carriage of heavy grade oil on ships in 

the Antarctic area 

15 Work programme and agenda for BLG 14 

16 Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman for 2010 

17 Any other business 

18 Report to the Committees 

*** 

 

∗ Agenda item numbers do not necessarily indicate priority. 
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 30 

REVISED WORK PROGRAMME OF THE FSI SUB-COMMITTEE 

AND PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR FSI 17 

 Target completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed for 

completion 

Reference 

1 Mandatory reports under 

MARPOL 

Strategic direction: 2 

High-level action: 2.1. 1 

Planned output: 2.1.1.6

Continuous MSC 70/23, 

paragraph 20.12.1; 

MEPC 56/23, 

paragraph 14.4; 

FSI 16/18, section 4 

2 Casualty statistics and 

investigations 

Strategic direction: 1.1 / 2 / 4 / 5.3 

12.1 / 12.3 

High-level action: 1.1.2 / 2.1.1 / 

4.2.1 / 5.3.1 / 12.1.2 / 12.3.1 

Planned output: 1.1.2.1 / 

2.1.1.1 / 4.2.1.1 / 4.2.1.3 / 

5.3.1.5 / 12.1.2.1 / 12.1.2.2 

12.3.1.1 

Continuous MSC 68/23, 

paragraphs 7.16 to 7.24; 

FSI 16/18, section 6 

3 Harmonization of port State 

control activities 

Strategic direction: 1.1 / 2 / 4 /5.3/ 

12.3 

High-level action: 1.1.2 / 2.1.1 / 

4.2.1 / 5.3.1 / 12.3.1 

Planned output: 1.1.2.1 / 

2.1.1.7 / 4.2.1.1 / 4.2.1.3/ 

5.3.1.2 / 5.3.1.3 / 5.3.1.4 / 

5.3.1.5/ 12.3.1.2 

Continuous MSC 71/23, 

paragraph 20.16; 

MSC 80/24, 

paragraph 21.16; 

FSI 16/18, section 7 

4 Responsibilities of Governments 

and measures to encourage flag 

State compliance 

Strategic direction: 2 / 4 /5.3 

High-level action: 2.1.1 / 4.2.1 / 

 5.3.1 

Planned output: 2.1.1.5 / 

4.2.1.2 / 5.3.1.5 

Continuous MSC 68/23, 

paragraphs 7.2 to 7.8; 

FSI 16/18, section 3 

______________ 

Notes: 1 “H” means a high priority item and “L” means a low priority item. However, within the high and 

low priority groups, items have not been listed in any order of priority. 

 2 Items printed in bold letters have been selected for the provisional agenda for FSI 17. 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 30 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

Sub-Committee on Flag State Implementation (FSI) (continued) 

 Target completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed for 

completion 

Reference 

5 Comprehensive analysis of 

difficulties encountered in the 

implementation of IMO 

instruments 

Strategic direction: 2 

High-level action: 2.1.1 

Planned output: 2.1.1.5 

Continuous MSC 69/22, 

paragraph 20.28; 

FSI 8/19, 

paragraph 4.3; 

FSI 16/18, section 10 

6 Review of the Survey 

Guidelines under the HSSC 

Strategic direction: 5.2 

High-level action: 5.2.1 

Planned output: 5.2.1.2 

Continuous MSC 72/23, 

paragraph 21.27; 

FSI 16/18, section 11 

7 Consideration of IACS Unified 

Interpretations 

Strategic direction: 1.1 

High-level action: 1.1.2 

Planned output: 1.1.2.1 

Continuous MSC 78/26, 

paragraph 22.12; 

FSI 16/18, section 12 

8 Review of the Code for the 

Implementation of Mandatory IMO 

Instruments 

Strategic direction: 2 

High-level action: 2.1.1 / 2.2.1 

Planned output: 2.1.1.5 / 

2.1.1.7 / 2.2.1.1 / 2.2.1.2 

Continuous MSC 83/28, 

paragraph 25.27; 

FSI 16/18, section 14 

H.1 PSC guidelines on seafarers’ 

working hours and PSC 

guidelines in relation to the 

Maritime Labour Convention, 

2006 

Strategic direction: 1.1 

High-level action: 1.1.2 

Planned output: 1.1.2.1 

2009 MSC 70/23, 

paragraph 20.12.3; 

FSI 16/18, section 9 

H.2 Development of guidelines on 

port State control under the 

2004 BWM Convention 

Strategic direction: 2 / 5.3 

High-level action: 2.1.1 / 5.3.1 

Planned output: 2.1.1.2 / 

5.3.1.2

2010 MEPC 52/24, 

paragraph 2.21.2; 

FSI 16/18, section 8 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 30 

Page 3 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

Sub-Committee on Flag State Implementation (FSI) (continued) 

Target completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed for 

completion 

Reference 

H.3 Port reception facilities-related 

issues 

Strategic direction: 7.1 / 13.2 

High-level action: 7.1.3 / 13.2.1 

Planned output: 7.1.3.1 / 

7.1.3.2 / 13.2.1.1 / 13.2.1.2 

2010 MEPC 53/24, paragraph 9.7; 

FSI 16/18, section 5 

H.4 Development of a Code for 

Recognized Organizations 

Strategic direction: 2 

High-level action: 2.1.1 

Planned output: 2.1.1.1 

2010 MSC 84/24, section 22 

paragraph 22.27; 

FSI 16/18, section 15 

H.5 Measures to protect the safety 

of persons rescued at sea 

Strategic direction: 5.1 

High-level action: 5.1.2 

Planned output: - 

2010 MSC 84/24, section 22; 

FSI 16/18, section 15 

H.6 Code of conduct during 

demonstrations/ 

campaigns against ships on high 

seas (coordinated by NAV) 

Strategic direction: 5.2 

High-level action: 5.2.4 

Planned output: 5.2.4.2

2 sessions MSC 82/24, section 22 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 30 

Page 4 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

PROVISIONAL AGENDA FOR FSI 17 

 Opening of the session 

1 Adoption of the agenda 

2 Decisions of other IMO bodies 

3 Responsibilities of Governments and measures to encourage flag State compliance 

4 Mandatory reports under MARPOL 

5 Port reception facilities-related issues 

6 Casualty statistics and investigations 

7 Harmonization of port State control activities 

8 PSC guidelines on seafarers’ working hours and PSC guidelines in relation to the 

Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 

9 Development of guidelines on port State control under the 2004 BWM Convention 

10 Comprehensive analysis of difficulties encountered in the implementation of 

IMO instruments 

11 Review of the Survey Guidelines under the HSSC 

12 Consideration of IACS Unified Interpretations 

13 Review of the Code for the Implementation of Mandatory IMO Instruments 

14 Development of a Code for Recognized Organizations 

15 Measures to protect the safety of persons rescued at sea 

16 Work programme and agenda for FSI 18 

17 Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman for 2010 

18 Any other business 

19 Report to the Committees 

***
MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 31 

WORK PROGRAMMES OF THE DSC, NAV AND DE SUB-COMMITTEES 

WHICH RELATE TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 

SUB-COMMITTEE ON DANGEROUS GOODS, SOLID CARGOES AND CONTAINERS (DSC) 

 Target completion 

date/number of 

sessions needed 

for completion 

Reference

2 Reports on incidents involving 

dangerous goods or marine 

pollutants in packaged form on 

board ships or in port areas 

 Strategic direction: 12.3 

 High-level action: 12.3.1 

 Planned output: - 

Continuous CDG 45/22, section 11 and 

paragraph 20.2; 

DSC 11/19, section 6 

H.1 Amendments (35-10) to the IMDG 

Code and supplements 

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.3 

 Planned output: 5.2.3.1 

2009 DSC 3/15, paragraph 12.6; 

DSC 12/19, section 3 

SUB-COMMITTEE ON SAFETY OF NAVIGATION (NAV) 

 

1 Routeing of ships, ship reporting 

and related matters 

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.4 

 Planned output: 5.2.4.1

Continuous MSC 72/23, 

paragraphs 10.69 to 10.71, 

20.41 and 20.42; 

NAV 53/22, section 3 

SUB-COMMITTEE ON SHIP DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT (DE) 

 

H.1 Amendments to resolution A.744(18)

 Strategic direction: 5.2 

 High-level action: 5.2.1 

 Planned output: 5.2.1.1 

2009 DE 45/27, paragraphs 7.18 

and 7.19; 

DE 51/28, section 9 

L.3 Guidelines on equivalent methods 

to reduce onboard NOX emission 

2 sessions MEPC 41/20, 

paragraph 8.22.1; 

BLG 10/19, paragraph 12.3; 

MEPC 55/23, paragraph 19.9 

***

MEPC 58/23 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc 

ANNEX 32 

ITEMS TO BE INCLUDED IN THE AGENDAS 

FOR MEPC 59, MEPC 60 AND MEPC 61 

No. Item MEPC 59 

July 2009 

MEPC 60 

March 2010 

MEPC 61 

October 2010 

 1 Harmful aquatic organisms in ballast 

water 

RG 

X X X 

 2 Recycling of ships WG 

X X X 

 3 Prevention of air pollution from 

ships 

WG 

X 

[WG] 

X 

[WG] 

X 

 4 Consideration and adoption of 

amendments to mandatory 

instruments 

DG 

X [X] [X] 

 5 Interpretations of and amendments to 

MARPOL and related instruments 

X X X 

 6 Implementation of the OPRC 

Convention and the OPRC-HNS 

Protocol and relevant Conference 

resolutions 

X X X 

 7 Identification and protection of 

Special Areas and PSSAs 

X X X 

 8 Inadequacy of reception facilities X X X 

 9 Reports of sub-committees X X X 

10 Work of other bodies X X X 

11 Status of Conventions X X X 
MEPC 58/23 

ANNEX 32 

Page 2 

I:\MEPC\58\23.doc

No. Item MEPC 59 

July 2009 

MEPC 60 

March 2010 

MEPC 61 

October 2010 

12 Harmful anti-fouling systems for 

ships 

X X X 

13 Promotion of implementation and 

enforcement of MARPOL and 

related instruments 

X X X 

14 Technical Co-operation 

Sub-programme for the Protection of 

the Marine Environment 

X X X 

15 Role of the human element WG 

X X X 

16 Formal safety assessment X [X] [X] 

17 Development of a guidance 

document for minimizing the risk of 

ship strikes with cetaceans 

X X [X] 

18 Noise from commercial shipping and 

its adverse impacts on marine life 

X X X 

19 Work programme of the Committee 

and subsidiary bodies 

X X X 

20 Application of the Committees’ 

Guidelines 

X [X] [X] 

21 Election of the Chairman and 

Vice-Chairman 

X X 

22 Any other business X X X 

___________