Isle of Man issues notices on MARPOL Annex V and Annex VI

The Isle of Man Ship Registry published revised Manx Shipping Notices regarding MARPOL Annex V and MARPOL Annex VI.

The notices were published on 11 January 2024.

MARPOL Annex V

The Merchant Shipping (MARPOL Annex V – Prevention of Pollution by Garbage) Order 2014 applies to Manx ships, foreign ships in territorial waters, and sea-bed exploration platforms within Manx territorial waters, excluding certain ship types like warships. Survey and certification are not required under MARPOL Annex V.

Ships meeting certain criteria must maintain a Garbage Record Book and display placards informing crew and passengers about discharge requirements. A Garbage Management Plan is required for ships of certain tonnages and passenger capacities, outlining procedures for garbage minimization, collection, sorting, processing, and disposal. Special areas and codes, including those related to polar waters, impose additional restrictions on garbage discharge. Procedures for reporting difficulties in waste discharge to port reception facilities are outlined, and further guidance is available in MEPC.295(71).

The provided appendices in the document serve as reference guides for the regulations outlined in MARPOL Annex V regarding the discharge of various types of garbage from ships.

MARPOL Annex VI

The Isle of Man Ship Registry enforces regulations outlined in MARPOL Annex VI to control ship emissions and ensure environmental protection. Enacted internationally since 2005, with a revised text effective from November 1, 2022, MARPOL Annex VI applies to all Manx ships, foreign ships in territorial waters, and sea-bed exploration platforms within Manx territorial waters. Specific exclusions apply to certain ship types like warships and naval auxiliaries. Fuel oil suppliers based in the Isle of Man are also subject to separate regulations.

Survey and certification under MARPOL Annex VI are delegated to Recognised Organizations (ROs) listed in MSN 020. Additionally, certain aspects of certification and verification can be conducted by ROs other than the vessel's primary RO, subject to conditions specified in TAN 007-22.

Ships specified in MARPOL Annex VI, including those of 400gt or above, require renewal surveys every five years. Various certificates such as International Air Pollution Prevention Certificates (IAPP), International Energy Efficiency Certificates (IEEC), and Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificates (EIAPP) are necessary for compliance, each with specific validity periods and renewal conditions.

Fuel consumption reporting, required documents maintenance, emission control areas (ECAs) compliance, waivers, exemptions, and equivalent arrangements are also addressed under these regulations. The aim is to ensure adherence to international standards for environmental protection and pollution prevention in maritime operations.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):