Explore cutting-edge IHM maintenance techniques enhancing safety and compliance in ship recycling at Brussels’ Responsible Ship Recycling Forum 2024
This year’s Riviera Maritime Media forum, held in Brussels in association with international shipping law firm Norton Rose Fulbright at the end of May, is set to feature critical advancements in sustainable ship recycling practices.
A highlight of the event will be the insights shared by Sea Sentinels director Rakesh Bhargava’s presentation IHM: Its Maintenance and Sustainable Ship Recycling.
Mr Bhargava explained the pivotal role of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) in the process, “The IHM is a crucial document for ensuring the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. It helps manage the risks associated with hazardous materials, thus protecting human health and the environment.”
This document is essential from the outset, providing the first input to the ship recycling facility towards planning the management of hazardous materials on board.
Digital innovations have notably enhanced the maintenance and tracking of IHM, leading to significant improvements in safety and compliance.
Mr Bhargava elaborated on these advancements, stating, “Digitalised solutions for IHM tracking have significantly improved the way the maritime industry manages safety and compliance. These technologies offer numerous advantages that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of IHM management.”
Among the benefits of digital solutions are real-time data management, enhanced accuracy and efficiency through automation, improved compliance with regulations, cost-effectiveness, and easy accessibility and integration with other systems.
Mr Bhargava detailed the contributions of Varuna Sentinels, a sister company of Sea Sentinels, noting, “We provide tools designed to automate the creation and maintenance of IHM documents, including automated data collection and streamlined communication with suppliers and regulatory bodies.”
The forum in Brussels, strategically located near major shipping companies and regulatory bodies, will offer maritime professionals from around the globe a chance to engage with these new technologies and discuss practical solutions for advancing responsible ship recycling practices.
Mr Bhargava stressed the need for continuous updates and compliance, “It is essential this IHM document is kept updated to reflect any changes in the record of hazardous materials during the operational life of the ship.”
Through presentations like Mr Bhargava’s, the Responsible Ship Recycling Forum 2024 aims to foster a deeper understanding and adoption of sustainable practices that are crucial for the future of maritime operations.
As the industry moves forward, tools like those provided by Varuna Sentinels will play a vital role in ensuring that ship recycling adheres to the highest standards of environmental responsibility and safety.
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