Safety
March 2020
BIMCO shares guidance from OCIMF on inspection practices in relation to COVID-19
With the aim to keep our members updated on issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, BIMCO has reached out to Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) to obtain the guidance they provide to inspectors of the Ship Inspection Report Programme (SIRE) and Offshore Vessel Inspection Database (OVID).
BIMCO guidance on COVID-19 implications for ships’ certificates
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, some ships are experiencing operational challenges, such as shipyards or dry docks closing down. In addition, surveys and audits can in some cases not be conducted because surveyors are unable to attend the ships due to travel restrictions or quarantines.
Round Table looks at industry challenges
The Chairpersons of the Round Table of international shipping associations (RT) met in Rome in February to discuss current issues and coordinate efforts going into the new decade, widely billed to become one of the most important in shipping’s history.
February 2020
BIMCO, ICS, INTERCARGO and INTERTANKO launch survey to identify fuel oil issues
The IMO 2020 global sulphur limit for marine fuel oil has now been in force for over one month. BIMCO, ICS, INTERCARGO and INTERTANKO are calling on fleet- and vessel managers, as well as technical superintendents, to share their insight and experiences with the new IMO 2020 compliant fuels.
BIMCO encourages uniform ship-port data exchange in IMO submission
BIMCO, flag administrations and port associations have submitted a proposal to the IMO Facilitation Committee to develop IMO guidelines that provide global industry standards for data and data sharing, with the aim to enhance communication and thereby efficiency during port calls.
January 2020
US Coast Guard introduces new examinations for foreign ships calling US ports
BIMCO has received information about changes made by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to its Port State Control (PSC) boarding matrix.
BIMCO expands ice information service
As part of its offering to members, BIMCO has updated and expanded its online database on ice information. Foremost, the web-resource reflects the recently amended Polar Code and the subsequently revised national rules, which regulates navigation in arctic waters.
December 2019
SOLAS amendments to enter into force on 1 January 2020
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has issued a set of important amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), as well as various codes mandatory under the Convention. The changes will enter into force on 1 January 2020 and can be viewed below.
BIMCO restructures committees to balance safety and environment
BIMCO’s committee structure will change to reflect the increased importance of the environment while maintaining a thorough debate on safety. The BIMCO Board of Directors agreed to the change at a meeting in December.
November 2019
BIMCO co-sponsors IMO-proposal to revise guidelines on places of refuge
Together with EU countries and industry organisations – BIMCO has co-sponsored a revision on the guidelines on place of refuge for ships in need of assistance to include, among other things, guidelines for situations with more than one nation-state and recommendations for designation of a national competent authority.
