New MARPOL requirement on designated fuel oil sampling points

The 0.50% global sulphur limit for fuel oil used or carried for use has been in force since 1 January 2020. Three months later the so-called carriage ban took effect which prohibits carriage of fuel exceeding the global sulphur limit in the fuel oil tanks. To follow up on the new requirement and enable PSC to take representative samples of the fuel oil being used onboard, in-use sampling points needs to be designated. This statutory news summarizes the sampling point requirement.
Application of the requirement

The new requirement is introduced through Amendments to MARPOL Annex VI given in Resolution MEPC.324(75) adopted November 2020 and will enter into force (EIF) on 1 April 2022. The deadline for designating the in-use sampling points is dependent on the IAPP renewal survey for each ship:

Existing ships which are keel laid before 1 April 2022 will be required to designate sampling points no later than the first IAPP renewal survey on or after 1 April 2023.
Newbuilds keel laid on or after 1 April 2022, sampling points needs to be in place and designated on delivery.

The sulphur requirements in MARPOL applies to all fuel oil intended for combustion purposes for both propulsion and on board operations, meaning that all fuel oil systems serving main engines, auxiliary engines, boilers, incinerators, IG generators, emergency equipment and other consumers shall be fitted with designated sampling points. The only exemption is fuel oil service systems for low-flashpoint fuel having a flashpoint less than 60°C.

Source:
www.imo.org