The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has released a new joint circular, MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.18, on July 11, 2024, updating the fuel oil sampling guidelines for compliance verification with MARPOL Annex VI and SOLAS Chapter II-2. This update extends the use of the MARPOL Delivered Sample to include checking the flashpoint requirement under SOLAS Regulation II-2/4.2.1, replacing the previous MEPC Resolution 182(59).
Key Changes in the Updated Guidelines:
- Minimum Sample Size:
- The minimum sample size has been increased from 400ml to 600ml. The basic requirements regarding sampling location, arrangements, and procedures for the “Representative Sample” remain unchanged, as do the sample labelling and storage aspects.
- Fuel Oil Definition:
- For these guidelines and the application of SOLAS Regulation II-2/4.2, oil fuel is defined as per Regulation 2.1.14 of MARPOL Annex VI, including oil fuel as defined in Regulation 1 of MARPOL Annex I.
- Sampling and Preparation:
- Personnel involved in sampling and preparing the MARPOL Delivered Sample must be familiar with the equipment and guidelines. The sampling operation should be witnessed by representatives from both the ship and the supplier.
- New Section 10:
- This section covers procedures and documentation requirements for checking the fuel oil’s flashpoint. It does not affect the MARPOL Annex VI Appendix VI requirements for sulphur verification procedures.
- Tracking of Delivered Samples:
- The responsibility for tracking MARPOL Delivered Samples now lies with the company rather than the ship’s master. This is crucial when samples are taken off the ship for testing and the remaining material is not returned.
The MARPOL Delivered Sample should only be used by parties to either MARPOL Annex VI or SOLAS for compliance testing and not for resolving commercial quality disputes.
Staying updated with these changes is essential to ensure compliance and proper implementation on board vessels. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to us at Marine Surveyor Consultant SAGL.
