1. International Chamber of Shipping
Tripartite Tokyo October 2010
An update on development of International Measures for Minimizing the Transfer of Invasive Aquatic Species through Biofouling of Ships
International Chamber of Shipping

2. The Problem
The Scientific Community has agreed that there are three significant vectors responsible for the transfer of Harmful Invasive Aquatic Species –
Ballast Water
Aquaculture
Biofouling
Each of the three vectors are considered to be equally responsible for invasions!

3. IMO developments
MEPC 56 approved the inclusion of a high priority work item for the BLG Sub-Committee on the development of international measures
BLG 13 agreed to develop Guidelines for the control and management of ships’ biofouling
BLG 14 agreed Voluntary nature should be clearly indicated in the Guidelines
BLG 15 (7-11 Feb 2011) to Finalize Guidelines developed mainly by intersessional correspondence
MEPC 62 (11-15 July 2011) to Adopt Guidelines
Potential for Mandatory measures within 5? Years if not sufficient take-up

4. The “Guidelines” Recommendations for;
Biofouling Management Plan and Record Book
Antifouling System and maintenance
In-Water Inspection, Cleaning and Maintenance
Design and Construction
Training and Education

5. Biofouling Management Plan and Record Book
To provide effective procedures for biofouling management. Specific for each ship.
Details of antifouling systems
Identify hull locations subject to biofouling (“niche areas”)
Details of recommended operating conditions for AF systems applied
Records of anti-fouling systems maintenance, dates of dry-dockings, dates of in-water inspections, dates and details of internal sea water systems inspections
“Niche Areas to be identified

6. “Niche Areas” “Areas of a ship that are more susceptible to biofouling due to different hydrodynamic forces, susceptibility to coating system wear or damage, or being inadequately, or not, painted, e.g., sea chests, bow thrusters, propeller shafts, inlet gratings, dry dock support strips, etc”

7. Design and Construction
Small niches and sheltered areas should be excluded as far as practicable
Rounding and bevelling of corners, gratings and hinging of gratings for divers access
Capability to blank off sea-chests and other flood spaces for treatment and/or cleaning
Internal seawater systems designed to minimize biofouling
Sea chests – minimise size and number, fit cleaning systems (e.g. MGPS, steam, hot water)
Tunnel thrusters above LWL or accessible to divers
Anodes – Flush fitted or gasketed
Appropriate Antifouling system for area applied

8. Thank you