The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) reminds members and interested parties that from March 1st, 2020, all vessels are prohibited from carrying fuel oil with a sulphur content greater than 0.50% m/m.
In the first weeks of 2020, there have been very few reports of enforcement action taken against vessels for non-compliance with the sulphur cap, leading to IMO’s Secretary General to stating that the transition to the implementation of the regulation has been smooth.
Now, the industry has to begin preparations for the ban of high sulphur fuels, meaning that the industry has until the 1st of March to discharge fuel hat has a sulphur content greater than 0.50% m/m.
It should be reminded that the carriage ban is not applicable to vessels fitted with an approved exhaust gas cleaning system or when the fuel is being carried as cargo. Fuel can be debunkered to another vessel to be carried as cargo or to an appropriate shipboard or land-based facility.
If you’re not sure about the sulphur content of your fuel, check with your supplier. Australian fuel oil suppliers must be registered with AMSA – check out our register for contact details of local suppliers
… SAMSA notes.
Penalties apply for non-compliance with the 2020 sulphur requirements. MPA Singapore warned captains and owners of ships that are caught burning non-compliant fuel, that they could face up to two years in prison. In addition, other penalties can also take place, such as a fine of up to S$10,000 ($7,400).
