Update on approved methods
With reference to the Revised MARPOL Annex VI that entered into force on 1 July 2010, we have been informed that another approved method as per Regulation 13.7 is now available. Furthermore, we would like to take this opportunity to explain the applicability of the various approved methods (AMs).
MAN B&W S70MC engines
The first approved method for this engine type was published in MEPC.1/Circ738 on 19 October 2010. The applicability of that AM, based on engine output and configuration, has since been clarified in MEPC.1/Circ.738/Add.1.
On 11 August 2011, the Administration of Denmark notified IMO that it had certified a second approved method for the same engine type; IMO published this information on 12 August 2011 in MEPC.1/ Circ.764.
The newly published second approved method for S70MC engines is applicable to a greater range of engine outputs than the earlier published approved method.
Through the publication of an addendum to Circ.764 (MEPC.1/Circ.764/Add.1) on 15 September 2011, it has become clear that:
a) S70MC engines whose specification is covered by Circ.738 must comply with MARPOL Annex VI no later than the first IAPP renewal survey occurring on or after 19 October 2011.
b) S70MC engines whose specification is covered by Circ. 764 but not by Circ.738 must comply with MARPOL Annex VI no later than the first IAPP renewal survey occurring on or after 12 August 2012.
Note that vessels covered by Circ.738 are free to install the AM specified in either Circ. 738 or 764, however the time limit for compliance remains as dictated by Circ.738. Engines not covered by either Circ. 738 or Circ.764 are, until further notice, not required to be in compliance with MARPOL Annex VI. However DNV requires managers to obtain a “To Whom It May Concern” statement from the makers stating that no AM is available for the engine. This will greatly assist our surveyors when filling out the IAPP certificate and will help avoid problems during Port State Control inspections.
DNV will issue Retroactive Requirements for all S70MC engines registered in its database. However it is the manager’s responsibility to establish whether the vessels’ engines are covered by Circ. 738, 764 or neither.
MAN B&W S50MC engines
We would hereby also like to clarify that the approved method for S50MC engines, MEPC.1/Circ.765 published on 12 August 2011, applies only to those engines within the range specified in the aforementioned circular. DNV will issue Retroactive Requirements for all S50MC engines registered in its database. Nevertheless it is the manager’s responsibility to verify the applicability of Circ. 765 to the vessels’ engines. If it is found that the circular is not applicable, a statement as described above is to be obtained from the makers.
Source: DNV
