MARPOL Compliance Essentials

In 1973, IMO adopted the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, now known universally as MARPOL, which the Protocols of 1978 and 1997 have amended; it has been kept updated with relevant amendments. The MARPOL Convention addresses pollution from ships by oil; by noxious liquid substances carried in bulk; harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form; sewage, garbage and the prevention of air pollution from ships. MARPOL has greatly contributed to a significant decrease in pollution from international shipping and applies to 99% of the world’s merchant tonnage

Regulation 37 of MARPOL Annex I requires that oil tankers of 150 gross tonnes and above and all ships of 400 gross tonnes and above carry an approved Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP). This must be read and understood by all officers and crew so that any oil spills that do occur have minimal impact on the marine environment.

All garbage and waste generated onboard should be disposed of responsibly and in accordance with the provisions of MARPOL Annex 5 where required. Vessels should have management plans and logbooks to ensure compliance with these regulations.