Reminder that North American ECA Operative in August

Singapore MPA circular reminds North American Emission Control Area under MARPOL Annex Vl takes effect from 1, August 2012

The MPA circular reminds the Shipping Community on the entry into effect of the North American Emission Control Area (ECA) under MARPOL Annex VI and urges the community to take early actions for compliance with the regulations.

From 1 August 2012, all ships operating within the North America ECA shall only use fuel oil with sulphur content not exceeding 1.00% m/m, and from 1 January 2015, fuel with sulphur content not exceeding 0.10% m/m.

Shipowners and operators are advised to ensure that the absolute sulphur content of fuel oil used onboard ships does not exceed the limits as required under Regulation 14.4 of MARPOL Annex VI. Shipowners are also advised to properly maintain clear entries in the Oil Record Book and ensure the BDN is in good order as documentary proof of vessel’s compliance to the requirements. For ships using separate fuel oils to comply with the ECA requirements, proper changeover procedures for entry into an ECA shall be carried and implemented in accordance to Regulation 14.6 of MARPOL Annex VI.

In addition to the North America ECA, the shipping community is also advised to take note of the designation of the United States Caribbean Sea ECA, which is expected to enter into force on 1 January 2013, and take effect on 1 January 2014.