Notes on MARPOL Annex 2

Overview of Annex 2

• MARPOL Annex 2: Regulation for the prevention of pollution by noxious liquid substances carried in bulk.
• Effective Date: Came into force on April 6, 1987.
• Scope: Applies only to noxious liquid substances and chemicals carried in bulk; does not cover harmful substances in packaging.

Related Conventions

• Two Main Conventions:
  1. SOLAS Chapter 7: Carriage of dangerous goods.
  2. MARPOL Annex 2: Standards for noxious liquid substances.
• International Bulk Chemical Code (IBC Code):
  • Required for chemical tankers built after July 1, 1986.
  • Contains safety standards and minimum design and construction standards.
  • Lists chemicals and their environmental hazard ratings.

Categories of Noxious Liquid Substances

1. Category X:

   • Major hazard to marine environment and human health.
   • Discharge: Absolutely prohibited from tank cleaning or deblasting operations.

2. Category Y:

   • Hazard to the marine environment (not major).
   • Discharge Limitations: Restrictions on quantity and quality allowed.

3. Category Z:

   • Minor hazard to the marine environment.
   • Discharge: Less stringent restrictions, can be discharged under certain conditions.

4. Other Substances:

   • Present no harm to the marine environment.
   • Discharge: No restrictions after tank cleaning or deblasting.

Discharge Standards Parameters

• Max Quantity: Varies per tank based on capacity.
• Vessel Speed: At least 7 knots (self-propelled vessels); 4 knots (non-self-propelled).
• Distance from Land: Discharge must be at least 12 nautical miles from nearest land.
• Water Depth: Minimum of 25 meters.
• Discharge Method: Must occur below the waterline.

Special Areas

• Single Special Area:
  • Antarctic Area: Subject to stricter regulations due to environmental conditions.

Documentation Requirements

• Cargo Record Book:

  • Required for all ships carrying noxious liquid substances in bulk.
  • Entries must include:
    • Loading of cargo
    • Internal transfers
    • Unloading of cargo
    • Pre-wash cleaning
    • Discharge of tank washings and ballast water
    • Accidental discharges
    • Operational remarks
  • Must be signed by the officer in charge and the vessel's master.
  • Kept for 3 years after last entry.

• Procedure and Arrangement Manual:

  • Must be carried by vessels.
  • Contains operational procedures for cargo handling, tank cleaning, and more.

• Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan (SMPEP):

  • Required for vessels over 150 gross tonnage.
  • Outlines procedures for reporting pollution incidents, actions to reduce pollution, and contacts for local/national authorities.

Conclusion

• Overall, Annex 2 regulates the safe handling and discharge of noxious liquid substances to protect the marine environment.