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• In order to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species; implementation of the Biofouling management practices is critical; which includes use of antifouling systems and operational management practices to reduce development of biofouling.

• IMO MEPC adopted resolution MEPC .207 (62) providing consistent approach to the management of biofouling.

• Based on this resolution, Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has encouraged owners/operators, companies in implementing the resolution MEPC .207 (62) to their ships and provided specific regional requirements for certain regions vide information bulletin no.171.

• The vessels are required to develop and maintain a Biofouling Management Plan specific to the vessel and a Biofouling Record Book onboard vessel.

• Administration has produced a biofouling record book which can be ordered from the BMA publications section on the administration’s website.

• Specific requirements for certain regions are summarized below:

1. California’s requirements:

• Reporting under Biofouling Management Regulations became effective from 01st October 2017and is applicable to vessels of 300 GT or above arriving at California Ports.

• Vessels are required to submit completed “Marine Invasive Species Program Annual vessel Reporting Form” (SLC 600.12, revised 01/17-refer enclosures) at least 24 hours in advance of the first arrival of calendar year at any California port.

• Other requirements will be applicable to

1. Existing vessel after first regularly scheduled dry dock after 1st January 2018
2. New Vessels delivered on or after January 1, 2018

• The biofouling management plan should be at least consistent with resolution MEPC.207 (62) which includes details of anti-fouling systems and operational practices & treatments used, scheduled of planned inspections, repairs, maintenance and renewal of anti-fouling systems etc.

• The Biofouling Record book should be consistent with resolution MEPC.207 (62) containing the details of all inspections & biofouling management undertaken on ship since its most recent dry docking.

• Anti-fouling practices used by a ship should be listed in its Biofouling Management Plan and actions to be recorded in biofouling record book.

• For the vessels that had undergone an extended residency period (remaining in one port consecutively for 45 days or longer) since its most recent dry dock; any action or activity undertaken to manage biofouling of the wetted surfaces of the vessel are to be recorded in Biofouling Record Book.

• Also it is to be noted that propeller cleaning is prohibited in California.

1. New Zealand Government’s requirements:

• Biosecurity requirements of New Zealand government will come into force from May 2018 and will be applicable for all incoming vessels.

• Ships will be required to have a clean hull while arriving in New Zealand.

• Ships are required to follow current best practice in biofouling management and carry evidence of same onboard for verification.

• Compliance with resolution MEPC. 207 (62) will be considered as meeting its requirements.

• Ship owners / operators and masters are advised to be guided by above.

Enclosure:  

1. Bahamas Maritime authority information bulletin No.171

Disclaimer:

This Technical Circular and the material contained in it is provided only for the purpose of supplying current information to the reader and not as an advice to be relied upon by any person. While we have taken utmost care to be as factual as possible, readers/ users are advised to verify the exact text and content of the Regulation from the original source/ issuing Authority.

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