International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has put out a joint industry guidance document, developed with several participants, to provide guidance on the technical and safety implications of the sulphur cap
The IBIA document provides a background to Marpol Annex VI regulation and addresses issues related to fuel compatibility, fuel stability and fuel handling and storage, together with the operational factors that can affect safety.
IBIA said “The implementation of the 0.50% sulphur limit has gone smoother than many had anticipated, but stakeholders need to remain alert and follow best practices to minimise operational problems and safety issues.”
In addition to developing the industry guidance document, the participants also worked with Videotel to produce an online e-learning module based on the guidance, which is free to view.
The e-learning course is split into three modules: Module 1 has an overview of the new regime and covers topics such as using sulphur max fuel in boilers, fuel switching and commingling fuels. Module 2 discusses real world scenarios and avoiding incompatibility and Module 3 provides additional resources.
Both the guidance and the e-learning module are designed for stakeholders across the marine fuels and shipping industries, from fuel blenders and suppliers to end users.
The guidance is part of a joint industry project whose participants include IBIA, African Refiners Association, Concawe, The International Council on Combustion Engines, The International Association of Classification Societies, International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association, The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology, International Union of Marine Insurance, Japan Petroleum Energy Centre, The Oil Companies International Maritime Forum and The Royal Institute of Naval Architechts.
The Joint Industry Guidance on the supply and use of 0.50% sulphur marine fuel is available here and the e-learning module can be found here.
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