Biofouling Management
The Biofouling Guidelines are voluntary and create no IMO-certified provider: before in-water cleaning, check port/coastal-State rules and assess the service technically.
Operational Explanation
The Biofouling Guidelines are voluntary and create no IMO-certified provider: before in-water cleaning, check port/coastal-State rules and assess the service technically.
Regulatory Reference
MEPC.378(80) 2023 Guidelines; MEPC.1/Circ.918 in-water cleaning guidance; local law/permits.
Scope of Application
Each port call and cleaning method; capture, containment, treatment and disposal follow risk assessment and local conditions.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Confirm cleaning is permitted and authorised.
- Assess equipment/provider against applicable Guidance.
- Define required capture/containment/treatment and waste route.
- Protect coating and prevent species release.
- Record the decision and result in Plan/Record Book.
Practical Example
A port may authorise a cleaning method with conditions; this is not IMO certification of the provider.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Requiring a certified in-water cleaning service or claiming formal IMO compliance without an identified scheme.
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Requiring a certified in-water cleaning service or claiming formal IMO compliance without an identified scheme. | Non-compliant decision or treatment | Follow the approved arrangement and applicable sources |
What the PSCO Checks
Operational Tips
- Separate current requirement, class/maker, SMS and voluntary guidance.
- Do not improvise tests, thresholds or intervals.
- Record deviations and corrective action.
Preparation checklist
- Port permission
- Service assessed
- Waste route
- Voluntary status
- Records
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 31 August 2026 · page fingerprint 9b18f95a18a2