New IMO ban on Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) in Canadian Arctic waters

Transport Canada has issued Ship Safety Bulletin No. 17/2024 announcing the IMO's new ban on the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil (HFO) in Canadian Arctic waters.

The ban requires most vessels to stop using and carrying HFO starting July 1, 2024. Vessels that are already compliant with specific Polar Code or Annex I regulations have until July 1, 2029, to meet the ban’s requirements.

Canadian vessels primarily engaged in marine resupply missions—covering at least 75% of their annual voyages—can apply for a temporary exemption, extending their compliance deadline to July 1, 2026. These vessels must apply to Transport Canada’s Marine Technical Review Board (MTRB) and keep a copy of the exemption decision onboard.

Vessels built before the new regulations, but meeting the required oil tank design standards, can also apply for an exemption, provided they demonstrate equivalent protection standards through the MTRB.

Before entering Arctic waters, all vessels must report to the Canadian Coast Guard’s Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centre, providing details about their fuel type and voyage parameters.

Operators should ensure they understand the new regulations, apply for necessary exemptions, and maintain the required documentation onboard. They must also report their fuel type and voyage details before entering Arctic waters.