Within the MARPOL Convention (the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from vessels), one of the most important elements is the requirement to record the hazardous substances on board of the vessel and when and where these substances are disposed of. From 1 October 2020, a number of changes will be made to MARPOL Annex I, II, V, VI and to the Nox Technical Code that allow the use of electronic record books.
These changes will apply to:
- Oil record book part 1 and 2;
- Cargo record book;
- Garbage record book part 1 and 2;
- Ozone-depleting Substance record book;
- Recording of the tier and on/off status of marine diesel engines;
- Record of Fuel Oil Changeover;
- Record book of engine parameters.
The digital logbook must be assessed by the “Flag Administration”, after which a written confirmation (Declaration of Marpol Electronic Record Book) will be issued. A copy of this declaration must be kept on board. In addition, the books must be properly archived in case the data is needed, to avoid errors of loss of date. The absence of such data may led to detention of the vessel by Port State Control or monetary fines.
We recommend the following guidance in relation to the correct completion of electronic logbooks:
- IMO Guidelines for Recording Operations in the Oil Record Book, Part I – Machine Room Operations (All Ships);INTERTANKO – A Guide to Correct Oil Journal Entry (Part I – Machine Room Operations);
- INTERTANKO – A Guide to Correct Oil Journal Entry (Part II – Cargo / Ballast Operations).