INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MARITIME UNIVERSITIES (IAMU) INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION LIAISON COMMITTEE (IMOLC) ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2010

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1 INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MARITIME UNIVERSITIES (IAMU) INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION LIAISON COMMITTEE (IMOLC) ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2010 Executive Summary: This report summarizes the activities of the International Maritime Organization Liaison Committee (IMOLC) during FY It outlines various meetings attended by IMOLC delegate representatives throughout the year and highlights current topics of potential interest to the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU). Where appropriate, specific recommendations are offered for International Executive Board (IEB) or Academic Program Review Committee (APRC) consideration. FY 2010 was another very interesting year at IMO. While topics of potential interest continued to evolve, this year was important since a significant amount of time and meetings were devoted to the Comprehensive Review of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping (STCW) Convention and Code, which resulted in a Diplomatic Conference held in June 2010 in Manila, Philippines. In addition to this conference, IMOLC was represented at six IMO meetings in FY10 with five members from four IAMU member institutions. Significant work was involved in preparing for meetings. All meeting documents and proposals were reviewed with an eye toward the impact on IAMU members and opportunities for IAMU members to engage in research and scholarly work. Draft documents were forwarded to the IMOLC for their review and comment, and presentations on issues of general interest were presented at IEB/AGA meetings. A special thanks go to the following individuals for their time, participation and expertise extended to the IMOLC on behalf of IAMU: Dr. Barrie Lewarn (Australian Maritime College AMC), Prof. Walter Nadolny (SUNY Maritime College SUNYMC), Dr. Vladimir Loginovsky (Admiral Makarov State Maritime Academy (AMSMA), Prof. Dr. Stephen Cross (Maritime Institute Willem Barentsz MIWB), and CAPT Ernest J. Fink (SUNY Maritime College SUNYMC). In addition to the six IMO meetings attended in FY10, the IMOLC also completed a Comprehensive Report on the 2010 STCW Manila Amendments which as distributed to all IAMU members. This report provides a roadmap for all IAMU members to ensure timely compliance with the various new amendments to the STCW Convention and Code. 1

2 IMOLC VISION The expertise of the IAMU will be beneficial to the IMO in the development of effective standards for the education and training, and research, and for enhancing the overall safety, security and environmental protection of the international maritime industry. REPRESENTATION ROLE IMOLC will represent IAMU at IMO and transmit IAMU input to IMO as approved by the International Executive Board. MONITORING ROLE IMOLC will monitor the IMO business agenda and documentation, and subsequently report to the International Executive Board. LIAISON ROLE IMOLC will liaise with the IMO Secretariat and the NGO s accredited at IMO. 2

3 Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 60th session: March, 2010: IAMU Delegate: Prof: Walter Nadolny (SUNY) More work needed despite Green House Gases (GHG) progress, IMO Committee concluded The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the IMO concluded that more work needs to be done before it completes its consideration of the proposed mandatory application of technical and operational measures designed to regulate and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from international shipping. Meeting at the Organization s London headquarters, the Committee s 60th session agreed to establish an intercessional Working Group to build on the significant progress that had been made during the meeting on technical and operational measures to increase the energy efficiency of ships. The Working Group will report back to the Committee s next session (MEPC 61), in September Although the meeting was able to prepare draft text on mandatory requirements for the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new vessels and on the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) for all ships in operation, the Committee noted in particular, that, among other things, issues concerning ship size, target dates and reduction rate in relation to the EEDI requirements all required finalization. The Committee agreed on the basic concept that a vessel s attained EEDI shall be equal or less (e.g. more efficient) than the required EEDI, and that the required EEDI shall be drawn up based on EEDI baselines and reduction rates yet to be agreed. The Committee noted guidelines for calculating the EEDI baselines using data from existing ships in the Lloyd s Register Fairplay database. With regard to market-based measures, the Committee agreed to establish an Expert Group on the subject to undertake a feasibility study and impact assessment of the various proposals submitted for a market-based instrument for international maritime transport again, reporting back to MEPC 61. Amendments to the MARPOL Convention Among other items on a full agenda, the Committee adopted amendments to the MARPOL Convention to formally establish a North American Emission Control Area, in which emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter from ships will be subject to more stringent controls than the limits that apply globally. Another new MARPOL regulation, to protect the Antarctic from pollution by heavy grade oils, was also adopted. These amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 August

4 Implementation of the Ballast Water Management Convention The MEPC addressed issues relating to the implementation of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 and adopted a resolution that requests Administrations to encourage the installation of ballast water management systems on new ships, in accordance with the application dates contained in the Convention. The resolution also urges countries that have not already done so to ratify the Convention, which will enter into force twelve months after the date on which not fewer than 30 States, the combined merchant fleets of which constitute not less than 35 percent of the gross tonnage of the world s merchant shipping, have become Parties to it. To date, it has been ratified by 22 countries representing per cent of the gross tonnage of the world s merchant shipping. The Committee decided to grant basic approval to eight ballast water management systems that make use of active substances and final approval to four such systems, after consideration of the reports of the tenth, eleventh and twelfth meetings of the Joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Environment Protection (GESAMP) Ballast Water Working Group, which met in September, October and December 2009, respectively. Recycling of ships The Committee continued its work on developing Guidelines for safe and environmentally sound ship recycling, and commenced the development of Guidelines for the development of the Ship Recycling Plan. Guidelines for the authorization of ship recycling facilities, for ship inspection and for survey and certification will also be developed in due course. Once adopted, the guidelines will assist ship-recycling facilities and ship operators to begin introducing voluntary improvements to meet the requirements of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, which was adopted in May The MEPC also agreed that there would be a need, in the future, to develop guidance concerning the recycling of flag-less and non-party ships by Parties to the Convention. The Committee agreed a timetable for the development of the guidelines and the intercessional correspondence group was re-established to progress the work and report to MEPC 61. Garbage Special Areas The MEPC agreed to establish 1 May 2011 as the date on which the discharge requirements for the Wider Caribbean Region Special Area under MARPOL Annex V Regulations for the prevention of pollution by garbage from ships will take effect. This Special Area, which includes the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, was designated as a Special Area under MARPOL Annex V in July Most countries in the region have now given notice that adequate reception facilities are provided in most relevant ports, so that the Special Area status can now be made effective. 4

5 In Annex V, Special Areas, disposal of all garbage into the sea, including plastics, is prohibited. Other special areas under Annex V are: the Baltic Sea (effective since October 1989); the North Sea (February 1991); the Antarctic area (south of latitude 60 degrees south) (March 1992); the "Gulfs" area (August 2008); the Mediterranean Sea (May 2009); the Black Sea (not yet effective); and the Red Sea (not yet effective). The MEPC is carrying out a review of MARPOL Annex V and received the interim report of an intercessional correspondence group on the subject. The final report, including proposed draft amendments to the Annex and its Guidelines, is expected to be submitted to MEPC 61. MARPOL Annex III Revision The MEPC approved proposed amendments to replace the text of MARPOL Annex III Regulations for the prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form, with a view to subsequent adoption by MEPC 61. The amended text is aimed at bringing the Annex up to date with the mandatory International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, specifying that goods should be shipped in accordance with relevant provisions. Implementation of the OPRC Convention and OPRC-HNS Protocol The MEPC considered the report of the tenth meeting of the OPRC-HNS Technical Group, which met in the week prior to the Committee s session, and approved for publication the following texts developed by the Technical Group: Manual on Oil Pollution, Section I Prevention; Publication checklist for new IMO manuals, guidance documents and training materials; Guidance document on the implementation of an Incident Management System; and Guidelines for oil spill response in fast currents. Secretary-General s closing remarks In his closing remarks to the meeting, IMO Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos focused on the progress made in dealing with GHG emissions from ships and the challenges that still remain. Placing the Committee s work in its wider context, he said, Global issues demand global solutions. Let the world learn from the lessons of Copenhagen so that the same mistakes are not repeated in Cancun. At the same time, let us build on the undeniable successes Copenhagen has scored, by providing a forum for Heads of State and Government to listen to and understand each other s problems, concerns, worries and sensitivities and, thus, pave the way for a more successful next round of consultations. The shipping world, he added, should proceed, not in a fragmented manner, but as responsible members of a community that has a role to play in this effort. 5

6 Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), 87th session: May 2010: IMO Delegate: CAPT Ernest J. Fink (SUNY) IMO Maritime Safety meeting completes packed agenda IMO's Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) met at the Organization's London Headquarters for its 87th session from 12 to 21 May 2010, completing a packed agenda which saw the adoption of mandatory goal-based standards for ship construction, the adoption of amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), discussion on piracy and armed robbery against ships off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden and the implementation of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system. Piracy and armed robbery against ships The MSC reviewed the latest statistics on piracy and armed robbery against ships, and condemned all such acts (particularly off the coast of Somalia where piracy and armed robbery continues to be a menace to shipping) and urged, once again, all Governments and the shipping industry to intensify and coordinate their efforts to eradicate piracy and armed robbery against ships. The number of acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships reported to the Organization to have occurred in 2009 was 406, against 306 during 2008, representing an increase of 32.7%. In the first four months of 2010, 135 incidents had been reported. The majority of actual attacks reported worldwide during 2009 had occurred in international waters, largely as a result of pirate activity in the waters off the coast of Somalia. Meanwhile, the numbers of attacks reported that had occurred in port facilities while the ships were at anchor or berthed, had shown a steady downward trend since the introduction of the International Ship and Port Facilities (ISPS) Code in The Committee was updated on measures taken by IMO to assist States in implementing the Djibouti Code of Conduct concerning the repression of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden. A Project Implementation Unit has been established within the Maritime Safety Division of IMO, charged with developing and implementing a detailed action plan, which will be supported by four key pillars: developing a robust legal framework, maritime situational awareness, exchange of information, and capacity-building to develop coast guard capabilities. The current focus, the Committee heard, is on establishing and developing the three information-sharing centers in Sana'a, Mombasa and Dar es Salaam; and the regional training facilities to be established in Djibouti as building blocks for overall coordination and co-operation within the region. The Committee agreed to the establishment of a distribution facility at IMO headquarters in London, for the provision of flag State LRIT information to security forces operating in waters of the Gulf of Aden and the Western Indian Ocean, to aid their work in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships. The facility will give 6

7 flag States the option to instruct ships flying their flags to provide LRIT information in the area and, in turn, allow security forces to receive such information. The MSC adopted Guidelines on operational procedures for the promulgation of maritime safety information concerning acts of piracy and piracy counter-measure operations, which aims at facilitating the broadcast of navigational safety information originated by naval forces to merchant ships. Lifeboat release hooks - adoption of amendment postponed to MSC 88 The Committee agreed to postpone (to MSC 88, in November-December 2010) the adoption of an amendment to SOLAS regulation III/1 in conjunction with the approval of Guidelines for evaluation and replacement of lifeboat on-load release mechanisms and adoption of the related amendments to the International Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code. The proposed SOLAS amendment is intended to ensure new, stricter safety standards for lifeboat release hooks, aimed at preventing accidents involving lifeboats, and will result in the review and possible replacement of a large number of release hooks for lifeboats, thereby requiring action from all involved parties, including flag States, manufacturers, ship owners and surveyors. It was agreed that an intercessional Working Group on Lifeboat Release Hooks would meet in October 2010, to finalize the draft Guidelines, review the proposed SOLAS amendment and report to MSC 88. International LRIT Data Exchange to be established at EMSA, Lisbon The MSC agreed to the establishment, maintenance and operation of the International LRIT Data Exchange by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), in Lisbon, Portugal, from 2011, initially to The new international exchange will take over from the interim international exchange in the United States. The Committee also approved a circular on Interim continuity of service plan for the LRIT system, for the period between MSC 87 and MSC 88, with a view to reviewing and finalizing the continuity of service plan for the LRIT system at MSC 88, in November- December 2010, taking into account the experience gained with its use and implementation. Amendments to SOLAS and related mandatory Codes As well as the amendments relating to goal-based standards, the MSC also adopted the following SOLAS amendments, with an expected entry force date of 1 January 2012: Corrosion protection of cargo oil tanks A new SOLAS regulation II-1/3-11 on Corrosion protection of cargo oil tanks of crude oil tankers, to require all such tanks to be protected against corrosion, with related performance standards also adopted; 7

8 Fire protection Amendments to SOLAS regulation II-2/4.5.7 on Gas measurement and detection and to SOLAS regulation II-2/7.4.1 relating to fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems. Amendments to the International Code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS Code) were also adopted. STCW amendments endorsed The Committee endorsed draft amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and its related Code, which will be considered for adoption by a diplomatic conference to be held in Manila, Philippines from 21 to 25 June Implementation of the revised STCW Convention The list of Parties deemed to be giving full and complete effect to the provisions of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978, as amended, was updated with the addition of two Parties, following the submission of the Secretary-General's report on those countries whose independent evaluations had been completed since the previous MSC meeting. Other issues The MSC considered other issues arising from the reports of Sub-Committees and other bodies, and took action as follows: Approved, for adoption at MSC 88, the International Code for the Application of Fire Test Procedures, 2010 (2010 FTP Code), which is a comprehensive revision of the Code, aimed at making it more user friendly and enhancing its uniform application; Adopted amendments to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code; Adopted amendments to the Code of Practice for the Safe Loading and Unloading of Bulk Carriers (BLU Code) and the Manual on Loading and Unloading of Solid Bulk Cargoes for Terminal Representatives, to update the two instruments in view of the mandatory International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, which is expected to become effective on 1 January 2011; Adopted the revised International SafetyNET Manual; Approved Safety Recommendations for decked fishing vessels of less than 12 meters in length and un-decked fishing vessels, for concurrent endorsement by the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO); Approved Guidelines for security-related training and familiarization for port facility personnel with and without security-related duties and Reminder in connection with shore leave and access to ships; Approved Interim Guidelines for the construction and equipment of ships carrying natural gas hydrate pellets (NGHP) in bulk; Adopted Performance Standards for Bridge Alert Management; Approved Amendments to the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code), Revised Guidelines for the preparation of the Cargo 8

9 Securing Manual, Amendments to the Guidelines for securing arrangements for the transport of road vehicles on ro-ro ships (resolution A.581(14)) and Amendments to the Elements to be taken into account when considering the safe stowage and securing of cargo units and vehicles in ships (resolution A.533(13)); and Adopted a number of new and amended ships' routing systems and mandatory ship reporting systems. Conference of Parties to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, Manila, the Philippines, June 2010: IMO Delegates: CAPT Ernest J. Fink (SUNY), Mr. Hideaki Uematsu (IAMU Secretary), Mr. Hidemasa Tagami (IAMU Vice Secretary) and Ms. Etsuko Komatsu (IAMU Coordinator) Major revisions to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (the STCW Convention), and its associated Code were adopted at a Diplomatic Conference in Manila, the Philippines, thereby ensuring that the necessary global standards will be in place to train and certify seafarers to operate technologically advanced ships for some time to come. The Conference was held in Manila from 21 to 25 June, 2010 under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution from ships. The amendments, to be known as The Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code are set to enter into force on 1 January 2012 under the tacit acceptance procedure and are aimed at bringing the Convention and Code up to date with developments since they were initially adopted in 1978 and further revised in 1995; and to enable them to address issues that are anticipated to emerge in the foreseeable future. Among the amendments adopted, there are a number of important changes to each chapter of the Convention and Code, including: Improved measures to prevent fraudulent practices associated with certificates of competency and strengthen the evaluation process (monitoring of Parties compliance with the Convention); Revised requirements on hours of work and rest and new requirements for the prevention of drug and alcohol abuse, as well as updated standards relating to medical fitness standards for seafarers; New certification requirements for able seafarers; New requirements relating to training in modern technology such as electronic charts and information systems (ECDIS); New requirements for marine environment awareness training and training in leadership and teamwork; 9

10 New training and certification requirements for electro-technical officers; Updating of competence requirements for personnel serving on board all types of tankers, including new requirements for personnel serving on liquefied gas tankers; New requirements for security training, as well as provisions to ensure that seafarers are properly trained to cope if their ship comes under attack by pirates; Introduction of modern training methodology including distance learning and web-based learning; New training guidance for personnel serving on board ships operating in polar waters; and New training guidance for personnel operating Dynamic Positioning Systems. Conference resolutions In addition to the resolutions adopting the aforesaid amendments, the Conference also adopted resolutions on: Expression of appreciation to the host Government; Transitional provisions and early implementation; Verification of certificates of competency and endorsements contained; Standards of training and certification and ships manning levels; Promotion of technical knowledge, skills and professionalism of seafarers; Development of guidelines to implement international standards on medical fitness for seafarers; Revision of existing model courses published by the International Maritime Organization and development of new model courses; Promotion of technical co-operation; Measures to ensure the competency of masters and officers of ships operating in polar waters; Attracting new entrants to, and retaining seafarers in, the maritime profession; Accommodation for trainees; Promotion of the participation of women in the maritime industry; Future amendments and review of the STCW Convention and Code; Contribution of the International Labor Organization; Role of the World Maritime University and IMO International Maritime Law Institute and International Maritime Safety, Security and Environment Academy (IMSSEA) in promoting enhanced maritime standards; Year of the Seafarer; and Day of the Seafarer. Speaking at the close of the successful Conference, IMO Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos said that the adoption of the revised STCW had brought to a successful conclusion the concerted effort undertaken by so many Government and industry alike, dedicated seafarer representative bodies, maritime training institutions, and the many other interested organizations over a four-year period. 10

11 The immediate task at hand is to promulgate the standards of maritime excellence we have just come to adopt amongst those working at the sharp end of the industry and to promote their proper implementation and enforcement through the usual means of enacting legislation and introducing enabling measures in maritime administrations and training establishments, Mr. Mitropoulos said. I would suggest that the successful closure of the Conference should be seen as marking the beginning of strenuous efforts at three levels: first, to commence, at the earliest possible opportunity, work to translate the revised STCW requirements into national regulations with the aim of expediting their implementation; second, to deliver, as appropriate, technical assistance through IMO s Integrated Technical Cooperation Program with the aim of familiarizing STCW Parties with the revised requirements, and to provide useful technical advice on the STCW Convention and the STCW Code as a whole; and third, to initiate action, as may be necessary, to ensure the full and effective implementation and rigorous enforcement of the revised STCW Convention and Code when the amendments come into force on the agreed date of 1 January 2012, Mr. Mitropoulos added. The Conference has been a key highlight in the IMO-designated Year of the Seafarer, which aims to provide the maritime community with an opportunity to pay tribute to seafarers from all over the world for their unique contribution to society and in recognition of the vital part they play in the facilitation of global trade in a hazardous environment. The Diplomatic Conference was held from 21 to 25 June 2010 in Manila, the Philippines with the support of the government of the Philippines and was attended by more than 500 delegates from delegations from 85 IMO Member States, as well as by observers from three Associate Members, the International Labor Organization (ILO), the European Commission (EC) and one other intergovernmental Organization; and 17 nongovernmental organizations. Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 61st session: 27 September to 1 October 2010: IAMU Delegate: Prof. Walter Nadolny (SUNY) Covering a packed agenda when it met for its 61st session from 27 September to 1 October, 2010 in London, the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) advanced its work on a number of important issues, including the adoption of the revised MARPOL Annex III, the approval of a revised text for MARPOL Annex V, the implementation of the ballast water and ship recycling conventions and the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases from ships. 11

12 Technical and operational measures to improve the energy efficiency of ships, in order to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping Having considered means by which technical and operational measures could be introduced in the Organization s regulatory regime, the Committee noted the intention of some States party to MARPOL Annex VI Regulations for the prevention of air pollution from ships, to request the Secretary-General to circulate proposed amendments to that Annex, to make mandatory, for new ships, the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP)), both of which have already been disseminated for voluntary use. The circulated draft amendments would then be considered by the Committee s next session, in July 2011, with a view to adoption under MARPOL Annex VI. The Committee also noted, however, that some other States did not support the circulation of the proposed amendments. Although decisions as to how to proceed with the next step of IMO s climate change strategy were not reached by consensus, nevertheless the Committee made progress on all three elements of its work, namely technical, operational and market-based measures, and it is expected that further substantial progress will continue to be made at the July 2011 meeting. The EEDI is a non-prescriptive, performance-based mechanism that leaves the choice of technologies to use in a specific ship design to the industry. As long as the required energy-efficiency level is attained, ship designers and builders would be free to use the most cost-efficient solutions for the ship to comply with the regulations. The SEEMP establishes a mechanism for a shipping company and/or a ship to improve the energy efficiency of ship operations. Market-based measures The Committee also held an extensive debate on how to progress the development of suitable market-based measures (MBMs) for international shipping, following the submission of a comprehensive report by an Expert Group, which had carried a feasibility study and impact assessment of several possible market-based measures submitted by governments and observer organizations. The scope of the work of the Expert Group was to evaluate the various proposals on possible MBMs, with the aim of assessing the extent to which they could assist in reducing GHG emissions from international shipping, giving priority to the maritime sectors of developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The MBM proposals under review ranged from a contribution or levy on all CO2 emissions from international shipping or only from those ships not meeting the EEDI requirement, via emission trading systems, to schemes based on a ship s actual efficiency, both by design (EEDI) and operation (SEEMP). 12

13 The Committee agreed on Terms of Reference for an intercessional meeting of the Working Group on GHG Emissions from Ships, to be held in March 2011, tasking the group with providing an opinion on the compelling need and purpose of MBMs as a possible mechanism to reduce GHG emissions from international shipping and further evaluating the proposed MBMs considered by the Expert Group, including the impact of the proposed MBMs on, among others, international trade, the maritime sector of developing countries, LDCs and SIDS, as well as the corresponding environmental benefits. A report from the intercessional group will be submitted to MEPC 62 in July Revised MARPOL Annex III to prevent pollution from packaged goods adopted The revised MARPOL Annex III Regulations for the prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form was adopted by consensus during the session and is expected to enter into force on 1 January 2014 in order for changes to the Annex to coincide with the next update of the mandatory International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, specifying that goods should be shipped in accordance with relevant provisions. Revised MARPOL Annex V text approved The MEPC approved, with a view to adoption at its next session, amendments to revise and update MARPOL Annex V Regulations for the prevention of pollution by garbage from ships, following a comprehensive review of this Annex. The main changes include the updating of definitions; the inclusion of a new requirement specifying that discharge of all garbage into the sea is prohibited, except as expressly provided otherwise (the discharges permitted in certain circumstances include food wastes, cargo residues and water used for washing deck and external surfaces containing cleaning agents or additives which are not harmful to the marine environment); expansion of the requirements for placards and garbage management plans to fixed and floating platforms engaged in exploration and exploitation of the seabed; and the proposed addition of discharge requirements covering animal carcasses. Ballast water management systems approved After consideration of the reports of the thirteenth and fourteenth meetings of the Joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Environment Protection (GESAMP) Ballast Water Working Group, which met in May and July 2010, respectively, the MEPC granted Final Approval to six ballast water management systems that make use of active substances and Basic Approval to three such systems. The MEPC also approved circulars on the Framework for determining when a Basic Approval granted to one BWMS may be applied to another system that uses the same Active Substance or Preparation and Guidance for Administrations on the type approval process for ballast water management systems in accordance with the G8 Guidelines (for approval of ballast water management systems). 13

14 The MEPC reiterated the need for countries to ratify the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004, to achieve its entry into force at the earliest opportunity. To date, 27 States, with an aggregate merchant shipping tonnage of per cent of the world total, have ratified the Convention. The Convention will enter into force twelve months after the date on which not fewer than 30 States, the combined merchant fleets of which constitute not less than 35 percent of the gross tonnage of the world s merchant shipping, have become Parties to it. The MEPC noted the conclusion of the Review Group on Ballast Water Treatment Technologies (BWRG) that, for ships with ballast water capacity up to 5,000 cubic meters, including those constructed in 2011, there are sufficient technologies available to meet the requirements of the Convention and their number is increasing. Recycling of ships The MEPC continued its work on developing guidelines intended to assist ship recycling facilities to commence introducing voluntary improvements to meet the requirements of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, which was adopted in May It was agreed to re-establish the intercessional Correspondence Group on Ship Recycling to further develop the draft Guidelines for safe and environmentally sound ship recycling, Guidelines for the development of the Ship Recycling Plan and Guidelines for the authorization of Ship Recycling Facilities. The Committee encouraged Governments to ratify the Convention, which has been signed, subject to ratification, by five countries, and to review the program for technical assistance aimed at supporting its early implementation. Annex IV special area proposal approved The MEPC approved draft amendments to amend MARPOL Annex IV Prevention of pollution by sewage from ships to include the possibility of establishing Special Areas for the prevention of such pollution and to designate the Baltic Sea as a Special Area under this Annex. The amendments will be considered for adoption at the next session. Revised IAPP form supplement adopted The MEPC adopted amendments to MARPOL Annex VI Regulations on the prevention of air pollution from ships to amend the Form of Supplement to the International Air Pollution Prevention (IAPP) Certificate. The revised form is intended to clearly and precisely document the extent of a ship's compliance with regulations 4 and 14 of MARPOL Annex VI regarding sulphur oxide (SOx) values, or the possibility of using equivalent arrangements, outside or inside an Emission Control Area (ECA). The revised form is expected to enter into force on 1 February 2012 but the Committee noted that Member Governments have been invited 14

15 to use the revised form of Supplement to the IAPP Certificate at the earliest possible opportunity. The MEPC also adopted revised Guidelines for monitoring the worldwide average sulphur content of residual fuel oils supplied for use on board ships. Emission Control Area proposal put forward to next session for adoption The MEPC approved a proposal to designate certain waters adjacent to coasts of Puerto Rico (United States) and the Virgin Islands (United States) as an ECA for the control of emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOX), sulphur oxide (SOX), and particulate matter under MARPOL Annex VI Regulations for the prevention of air pollution from ships and agreed to consider the proposal for adoption at its next session. PSSA for Strait of Bonifacio to be further considered at next session The MEPC considered a proposal submitted by France and Italy to designate the Strait of Bonifacio as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA), and noted that the overwhelming majority of delegations that spoke agreed with the proposal, in principle, subject to a review by the Technical Group on PSSAs, which was unable to meet during the session due to time constraints but will be convened at the Committee's next session. In the meantime, the proponents were invited to also submit their proposals for associated protective measures to the Sub-Committee on Safety of Navigation for its consideration. Implementation of the OPRC Convention and OPRC-HNS Protocol The MEPC considered the report of the eleventh meeting of the OPRC HNS Technical Group, held in the week prior to the Committee s session, and approved the following draft texts developed by the Technical Group: the revised Manual on oil pollution, Section I - Prevention and the Guidance document on the implementation of an incident management system. Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), 88th session: 24 November - 3 December 2010: IAMU Delegate: Prof. Dr. Vladimir Loginovsky (AMSMA) Mandatory fire test procedures Code adopted by IMO Maritime Safety meeting Amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) to make mandatory the International Code for the Application of Fire Test Procedures (2010 FTP Code) were adopted when IMO's Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) met at the Organization's London Headquarters for its 88th session from 24 November to 3 December The busy agenda also included discussion on piracy and armed robbery against ships off the coast of Somalia and the approval of a revised resolution on principles of safe manning. 15

16 2010 FTP Code adopted The 2010 FTP Code, along with relevant SOLAS amendments to make it mandatory, was adopted, with an expected entry into force date of 1 July The 2010 FTP Code provides the international requirements for laboratory testing, typeapproval and fire test procedures for products referenced under SOLAS chapter II-2. It comprehensively revises and updates the current Code, adopted by the MSC in The 2010 FTP Code includes the following: test for non-combustibility; test for smoke and toxicity; test for A, B and F class divisions; test for fire door control systems; test for surface flammability (surface materials and primary deck coverings); test for vertically supported textiles and films; test for upholstered furniture; test for bedding components; test for fire-restricting materials for high-speed craft; and test for fireresisting divisions of high-speed craft. It also includes annexes on Products which may be installed without testing and/or approval and on Fire protection materials and required approval test methods. Other amendments adopted The MSC also adopted: amendments to SOLAS regulation V/18 to require annual testing of automatic identification systems (AIS); amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23 on pilot transfer arrangements, to update and to improve safety aspects for pilot transfer; amendments to safety certificates in the SOLAS appendix and SOLAS Protocol of 1988, relating to references to alternative design and arrangements; amendments to the International Convention for Safe Containers, 1972, to include addition of new paragraphs in Regulation 1 Safety Approval Plate, specifying the validity of and elements to be included in approved examination programs; the addition of a new test for containers being approved for operation with one door removed; and the addition of a new annex III Control and Verification, which provides specific control measures to enable authorized officers to assess the integrity of structurally sensitive components of containers and to help them decide whether a container is safe to continue in transportation or whether it should be stopped until remedial action has been taken; and a new chapter 9 of the International Code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS Code), related to fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems. Lifeboat release mechanisms amendments postponed The MSC agreed to postpone the adoption of an amendment to SOLAS regulation III/1, which would require lifeboat on-load release mechanisms not complying with new International Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code requirements, to be replaced no later than the next scheduled dry-docking of the ship, following entry into force of the SOLAS amendment. However, the Committee reached agreement, in principle, to set 1 July 16

17 2014 as the date for implementation of the system of assessment, evaluation and replacement of existing release mechanisms. The whole package of measures addressing the safety of lifeboat release and retrieval systems, including the proposed SOLAS amendment, related amendments to the LSA Code and the draft Guidelines for evaluation and replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems, referenced in the draft amendment to SOLAS regulation III/1, were referred back to an intercessional working group, which will meet prior to the 55th session of the Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Equipment (DE) (21 to 25th March 2011) and will continue its work through the Sub-Committee. The SOLAS amendment is intended to ensure new, stricter, safety standards for lifeboat release and retrieval systems, aimed at preventing accidents involving lifeboats, and will require the assessment and possible replacement of a large number of release hooks for lifeboats, thereby requiring action from all involved parties, including flag States, manufacturers, ship owners and surveyors. Guidance for company security officers on piracy agreed The Committee approved an MSC Circular on Guidance for company security officers on preparation of a company and crew for the contingency of hijack by pirates in the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, which supplements existing guidelines. The MSC also reviewed the latest statistics on piracy and armed robbery against ships, in particular in relation to the situation off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden, where ships continue to be attacked and hijacked, despite the concerted efforts of the international community, spearheaded by IMO, navies and the industry, to protect shipping. The Committee was also updated on measures taken by IMO to assist States in implementing the Code of Conduct concerning the repression of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden (the Djibouti Code of Conduct). During the meeting, Eritrea became the 18th State to sign the Djibouti Code of Conduct. The Committee was also informed that, following the establishment of a distribution facility at IMO headquarters in London, for the provision of flag State Long Range Identification and Tracking of ships (LRIT) information to security forces operating in waters of the Gulf of Aden and the western Indian Ocean, the IMO Secretary-General has received requests from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) for the provision of access to the distribution facility. Both security forces had indicated that the flag State LRIT information they would receive through the distribution facility would be used to enhance the protection of all ships navigating in the waters of the Gulf of Aden and the western Indian Ocean, irrespective of their flag, and for the protection of ships delivering humanitarian aid to Somalia. The requests received a positive response and SOLAS Contracting 17

18 Governments were invited (via IMO Circular Letter No.3134) to consider providing flag State LRIT information to NATO and EU NAVFOR. Safe manning draft resolution and SOLAS amendments approved The MSC approved revised Principles of Safe Manning, with a view to adoption by the IMO Assembly next year as an Assembly resolution. It also approved amendments to SOLAS regulation V/14 relating to mandatory requirements for determining safe manning, with a view to adoption by MSC 90, which will be held in The aim is to ensure that a ship is sufficiently, effectively and efficiently manned to provide safety and security of the ship, safe navigation and operations at sea and in port, prevention of human injury or loss of life, the avoidance of damage to the marine environment and to property, and to ensure the welfare and health of seafarers through the avoidance of fatigue. These objectives can be achieved through the adoption of a goal-based approach; standard procedures for effective implementation; and effective enforcement. The proposed resolution includes a number of annexes giving detailed guidance on implementing safe manning, including: Guidelines for the application of the principles of safe manning; Guidelines for the determination of minimum safe manning; Responsibilities in the application of principles of minimum safe manning; Guidance on content and model form of minimum safe manning document; and Framework for determining minimum safe manning. The proposed SOLAS amendment would require Administrations to take into account the guidance on minimum safe manning adopted by IMO (with a footnote referring to the Assembly resolution on Principles of Minimum Safe Manning). Correspondence group to finalize IMO Maritime Security Manual The Committee established a correspondence group to finalize the IMO Maritime Security Manual in time for MSC 89, to be held next May. The manual aims at consolidating the work undertaken so far to address security matters and will serve as a valuable reference tool for practitioners in Administrations, as well as for the industry and those operating in the field. LRIT status updated The MSC was updated on the status of the establishment of the global LRIT system, including the establishment of the International LRIT Data Exchange by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), in Lisbon, Portugal. The Committee approved Guidance notes for the first modification testing phase of the LRIT system and urged LRIT data centers to make the necessary provisions in order to complete the modification testing phase before 1 March

19 Future work to implement goal-based standards discussed The Committee invited Member Governments and international organizations to submit detailed proposals in order to be able to finalize the draft Generic guidelines for developing goal-based standards at MSC 89 and agreed to consider any proposals regarding the future work on GBS at the next session. The MSC noted information on the progress made with the implementation of the verification scheme for the International Goal-based Construction Standards for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers, which were adopted at its last session, along with the associated amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-1 making their application mandatory. STCW Convention: independent evaluations to be considered The list of Parties deemed to be giving full and complete effect to the provisions of the STCW Convention, as amended, was updated when the Secretary-General submitted his report on one country whose initial evaluation had been completed as well as on those countries whose independent evaluations had been completed since the previous MSC meeting. Other issues In connection with other issues arising from the reports of IMO Sub-Committees and other bodies, the MSC: adopted a number of new and amended ships routing systems and mandatory ship reporting systems, which had been approved by the Sub-Committee on Safety of Navigation (NAV); adopted Revised Guidelines on the prevention of access by stowaways and the allocation of responsibilities to seek the successful resolution of stowaway cases, which will also be submitted to the Facilitation Committee for adoption; reviewed a series of recommendations submitted by the Sub-Committee on Flag State Implementation (FSI) associated with the consideration of possible ways in which the Code for the implementation of mandatory IMO instruments (which is used as the audit standard for the Voluntary IMO Member State Audit Scheme) could be made mandatory in particular, the issue of how to introduce the Code and auditing into the annexes to some or all of the 10 instruments covered by the Code; in the context of the above-mentioned Audit Scheme, reviewed the analysis of the first three consolidated audit summary reports; reviewed the progress made in the development of a new code for recognized organizations; approved draft amendments to the LSA Code to require lifeboats to be of international or vivid reddish orange, on all parts where this will assist detection at sea and to delete the reference to allowing a comparably highly visible color with a view to subsequent adoption; approved draft amendments to SOLAS regulation II-2/20, regarding fixed gas and water-spraying fire-extinguishing systems for vehicle, ro-ro, container and general cargo spaces, with a view to subsequent adoption; 19

20 approved draft amendments to SOLAS regulation II-2/9, concerning fire integrity of bulkheads and decks separating adjacent spaces of ro-ro spaces for passenger ships carrying not more than 36 passengers and cargo ships, with a view to subsequent adoption; agreed to modifications to footnotes in the Performance Standard for protective coatings for dedicated seawater ballast tanks in all types of ships and doubleside skin spaces of bulk carriers, adopted by resolution MSC.215(82), and in the Performance standard for protective coatings for cargo oil tanks of crude oil tankers, adopted by resolution MSC.288(87); approved amendments to chapters 5 to 8 of the International Code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS Code); and approved supplementary advice on the IMO position on the World Radiocommunications Conference 2012 agenda items concerning matters relating to maritime services. Sub-Committee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping (STW), 42nd session: 24 to 28 January 2011: IAMU Delegates: Dr. Barrie Lewarn (AMC) and Prof. Stephen Cross (MIWB) The Sub-committee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping (STW) held its fortysecond session from 24 to 28 January 2011 under the chairmanship of Rear Admiral Peter Brady (Jamaica) Secretary-General's opening address The Secretary-General welcomed the participants and delivered his opening address, the full text of which is reproduced in document STW 42/INF.7. Chairman's remarks In response, the Chairman thanked the Secretary-General for his assessment provided on the achievements resulting from the Organization's efforts throughout last year and, in particular, in relation to that year's World Maritime Day theme of the Year of the Seafarer. He further expressed the opinion that seafarers around the world were definitely appreciating the efforts taken by the Organization for their safety and wellbeing. He also thanked the Secretary-General for the information related to the proposed seminar/workshop on piracy scheduled to be held on 26 January Rescue of chemical tanker "Samho Jewelry" The delegation of the Republic of Korea provided an oral statement relating to the operation carried out by their Navy leading to the rescue of chemical tanker Samho Jewelry along with all its crew members, which had been hijacked by pirates. They expressed appreciation to Oman, the United States and other IMO Members who one way or another had provided support for the operation. 20