Switching operations

Annex VI of MARPOL sets specific limits on certain air emissions from ships and its engines. Annex VI also allows member States or regions to establish Emission Control Areas with lower emission limits. One method of complying with these differing emission standards is through the use of different fuel qualities. Various procedures have been established for switching fuels to ensure compliance with the ECA requirements and to avoid engine problems. Given that the 0.5% mass global sulphur cap is implemented from 1 January 2020, it becomes more important to INTERTANKO Members that such procedures are clear and not overly burdensome. Provided that new IMO guidelines have increased the scope of PSC inspections to include fuels used onboard by ships, it is important that Members do take precautionary measures on their fuel switchover procedures to demonstrate the fuel used, and the initiation of the switchover, were done in a manner that ensures compliance.

To that extent, INTERTANKO has issued a Practical 2020 Guideline to assist Members in preparing for transition to the new SOx emissions, limit regime and to assist them to take the appropriate measures when various challenges occur, particularly in cases of a lack of availability of complaint fuels or when fuels delivered may not meet the quality required.