IGF Code takes effect on January 2017
The International Code for Ships using Gases and
other Low Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) will take effect on 1 January, 2017,
providing a clear legislative framework for ships to install LNG fuel systems.
Specific provisions for ships to use other fuels with flashpoint below 60°C
have yet to be developed.
The IGF Code will apply to all vessels
above 500 gross tonnage that install low flashpoint fuel systems. It has been
made mandatory through the International Convention for the Safety of Life at
Sea (SOLAS).
Vessels planning to install fuel
systems for other types of low flashpoint fuels would be required to
demonstrate compliance with the functional requirements of the IGF Code through
alternative design.
Work on developing regulations for low
flashpoint fuels other than gas is ongoing the International Maritime
Organization (IMO), at the Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers
(CCC), which reports to the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC).
CCC has been making progress on a new
set of specific technical provisions in the IGF Code for ships to use
methyl/ethyl alcohol (which includes methanol) as a fuel. It has not, however,
been able to begin work on a new chapter of the IGF Code to deal with diesel
fuels with a flashpoint between 52°C and 60°C as there has only been
preliminary discussion but no concrete input.
At
present, ships that have LNG or other low flashpoint fuel systems need to
obtain permits from each port authority or the maritime administration in the
countries where they call, but from 2017, vessels built and approved in
accordance with the IGF Code will be able to trade freely around the world.
These vessel will have SOLAS certificates to confirm that the requirements of
the IGF-Code are met for a specific type of fuel.
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