Guidelines for Shipping Plastic Pellets by IMO

Rules and Regulations
1

In May 2021, a fire on a vessel in the vicinity of Sri Lanka’s waters resulted in the discharge of 11,000 tons of plastic pellets into the sea. This incident underscored the necessity for clear regulations and standards governing the shipping, handling, and labeling of containers carrying plastic pellets. Subsequently, ongoing discussions have been initiated at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to address this issue.

Credits for the image: https://www.trasportoeuropa.it/english/new-imo-recommendations-on-sea-transport-of-plastic-pellets/
Credits for the image: https://www.trasportoeuropa.it/english/new-imo-recommendations-on-sea-transport-of-plastic-pellets/768×432 51.6 KB

During the recent 81st session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), the guidelines for “Recommendations for the carriage of plastic pellets in freight containers by sea” (MEPC.1/Circ.909) were endorsed.

These guidelines represent a provisional measure aimed at mitigating the environmental hazards associated with the maritime transportation of packaged plastic pellets, pending the establishment of mandatory regulations.

Carriage Requirements in Accordance with MEPC.1/Circ.909

  1. Plastic pellets must be packaged in durable, high-quality packaging capable of withstanding the typical shocks and loadings experienced during transportation. The packaging should be designed and sealed to prevent any loss of contents due to vibration or acceleration forces under normal transport conditions.

  2. Transport information must include a clear identification of freight containers carrying plastic pellets, in addition to the cargo information required by SOLAS regulation VI/2. Furthermore, the shipper should supplement the cargo information with a special stowage request for the specific stowage.

  3. Freight containers containing plastic pellets should be appropriately stowed and secured to minimize risks to the marine environment while ensuring the safety of the ship and its crew. Specifically, freight containers containing plastic pellets should be stowed:
    (a) Under deck whenever reasonably practicable; or
    (b) Inboard in sheltered areas of exposed decks.

MEPC.1/Circ.909 is a recommendation and not mandatory. Nevertheless, some port authorities may require adherence to its guidelines.

Reference Doc:
MEPC.1-Circ.909.pdf (147.0 KB)

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