IMO updates performance standards for protective coatings on ships

The International Maritime Organization has issued resolutions MSC.557(108) and MSC.558(108) amending performance standards related to protective coatings on ships, specifically for cargo oil tanks on crude oil tankers and dedicated seawater ballast tanks on all types of ships and bulk carriers.

Resolution MSC.557(108):

Amendments to the Performance Standard for Protective Coatings for Dedicated Seawater Ballast Tanks in All Types of Ships and Double-Side Skin Spaces of Bulk Carriers

• Background: This resolution updates the performance standards established by Resolution MSC.215(82), which governs protective coatings for seawater ballast tanks and the double-side skin spaces of bulk carriers. These areas are particularly vulnerable to corrosion due to constant exposure to seawater, which can compromise the structural integrity of vessels.
• Key Updates:
  • The amendment enhances the inspection requirements by stipulating that inspections must be conducted by qualified coating inspectors certified to recognized standards such as:
    • AMPP Certified Coatings Inspector
    • FROSIO Inspector Level III
    • Other equivalent certifications are verified by the ship's flag state administration.
• Adoption and Entry into Force:
  • The amendments will come into effect on January 1, 2026.
• Implications:
  The stricter certification requirements for inspectors ensure that inspections are conducted by qualified professionals, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of structural failures in seawater ballast tanks and bulk carrier spaces.

Resolution MSC.558(108):

Amendments to the Performance Standard for Protective Coatings for Cargo Oil Tanks of Crude Oil Tankers

• Background: This resolution updates the performance standards from Resolution MSC.288(87) regarding protective coatings for cargo oil tanks on crude oil tankers. These coatings are crucial for preventing corrosion and maintaining the structural integrity of the tanks, which are exposed to corrosive crude oil.
• Key Updates:
  • The amendment replaces the existing inspection protocols, mandating that inspections be conducted by qualified coating inspectors certified to recognized standards, including:
    • AMPP Certified Coatings Inspector
    • FROSIO Inspector Level III
    • Other equivalent certifications are verified by the flag state administration.
• Adoption and Entry into Force:
  • These amendments will take effect on January 1, 2026.
• Implications:
  By enforcing stricter inspection requirements for certified professionals, this resolution aims to enhance the safety and reliability of crude oil tankers, helping to prevent oil spills and ensuring compliance with international safety standards.

General Impact of Both Resolutions:

1. Enhanced Inspection Requirements: Both resolutions emphasize the use of qualified, internationally certified inspectors to improve the inspection process, thereby enhancing maritime safety.
2. Global Application: These amendments apply to all contracting governments under the SOLAS Convention, highlighting the importance of consensus in international maritime regulation.
3. Timeline and Process for Implementation: Both resolutions follow the standard IMO procedures for amendments. They provide a period during which governments can object, ensuring a structured approach to updating safety standards.
4. Safety and Environmental Protection: By ensuring proper application and inspection of protective coatings, these amendments help prevent corrosion-related incidents, thus protecting marine environments and improving vessel integrity.

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