Exemption of Unmanned Non-Self-Propelled (UNSP) Barges from Survey and Certification Requirements

15 March 2022 |  C22017

The Marine Environment Protection Committee, at its 76^th session, adopted amendments to MARPOL Annexes I and IV, on exemption of unmanned non-self-propelled (UNSP) barges from certain surveys and certification requirements.

NOTICE TO
Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators | Surveyors/Auditors

The Marine Environment Protection Committee, at its 76th session, through MEPC.330(76), approved the amendments to MARPOL Annexes I and IV. The amendments specify requirements on exemption of unmanned non-self-propelled barges from certain survey and certification requirements and came into force on 01st of November 2021.

Similarly, IMO Circular MEPC.1/Circ.892 was released, specifying Guidelines for Exemption of Unmanned Non-Self-Propelled (UNSP) Barges from Certain Survey and Certification Requirements Under the MARPOL Convention.

The Guidelines are intended to provide specific guidance for flag States, port States and relevant parties, including shipowners and operators, on the application of the relevant requirements of the MARPOL Convention concerning exemption of unmanned non-self-propelled (UNSP) barges from certain survey and certification requirements pursuant to the amendments to MARPOL Annexes I and IV, as adopted by resolution MEPC.330(76), and the amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, as adopted by resolution MEPC.328(76).

To reduce the administrative burden of flag States, port States and relevant parties, an exemption of a UNSP barge from certain survey and certification requirements under MARPOL Annexes I, IV and VI may be granted. In this connection, the exemption certificate(s) for a UNSP barge should be issued by the Administration, in accordance with regulations 3.7 and 9.2 of MARPOL Annex I, regulations 3.2 and 7.2 of MARPOL Annex IV, regulations 3.4 and 8.4 of MARPOL Annex VI, using the forms set out in the appendices of MARPOL Annexes I, IV and VI.

Such certificates should be issued either by the Administration or by any person or organization duly authorized by it. In every case, the Administration assumes full responsibility for the certificates.

IMO Circular MEPC.1/Circ.892 includes the procedures for granting exemptions, maintenance of conditions after survey, pushing and towing requirements.

Act now

Ship Owners / Managers / Operators of unmanned non-self-propelled (UNSP) barges should take into consideration the above amendments and guidelines.