Answer SSEP Question 42

Q42.  A vessel due for International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate renewal survey and company instructed to offer this vessel for survey at the next port of call.

A. As a 2nd Engineer officer of the above-mentioned vessel, what all checks do you carry out and how do you prepare for the IOPP renewal survey.

B. What records, procedures, certificates etc., you will keep ready for attending surveyor verification.

Ans: As the Second Engineer officer preparing for the International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) renewal survey, there are several checks and preparations that I would carry out to ensure the vessel meets the necessary requirements and is ready for inspection. Here's a breakdown of the steps I would take:

A. Checks and Preparations:

1. Review Documentation: Ensure that all relevant documentation related to the vessel's oil pollution prevention measures is up-to-date and readily available for inspection. This includes the vessel's Oil Record Book (ORB), Garbage Record Book, and any other relevant certificates or records.

2. Inspect Oil Separating Equipment: Verify the condition and operational efficiency of the vessel's oil separating equipment, including Oily Water Separators (OWS) and oil filtering systems. Carry out any necessary maintenance or repairs to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

3. Check Piping and Valves: Inspect all oil transfer piping, valves, and connections to ensure they are in good condition and free from leaks or defects. Test valves to ensure they operate correctly and can be secured when necessary.

4. Verify Bilge Management System: Review the vessel's bilge management system to ensure it effectively separates oil from water and discharges treated water within permissible limits. Test alarms and sensors to ensure they are functional.

5. Inspect Pollution Control Equipment: Check the condition and readiness of pollution control equipment such as oil booms, skimmers, and absorbent materials. Ensure they are readily available and in good working order for immediate deployment if needed.

6. Train Crew: Conduct training sessions with the crew to review procedures for oil pollution prevention, response to oil spill emergencies, and proper use of pollution control equipment. Ensure that all crew members are familiar with their roles and responsibilities.

7. Prepare Emergency Response Plan: Review and update the vessel's Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP) and ensure that all necessary resources and contacts are readily available in case of an oil spill emergency.

B. Records, Procedures, Certificates, etc.:

1. Oil Record Book (ORB): Keep the ORB updated with accurate entries documenting all oil-related operations, including oil transfers, disposal, and discharge incidents. Ensure that entries are made promptly and accurately in accordance with MARPOL Annex I regulations.

2. Garbage Record Book: Maintain the Garbage Record Book with detailed entries documenting the disposal of garbage and other waste materials in compliance with MARPOL Annex V regulations.

3. Certificates: Keep all relevant certificates, including the IOPP Certificate, Engine International Air Pollution Prevention (EIAPP) Certificate, and other statutory certificates, readily available for inspection by the surveyor.

4. Procedures Manuals: Have copies of the vessel's Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP), Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP), and other relevant procedures manuals onboard for reference by the surveyor.

5. Maintenance Records: Maintain records of all maintenance and inspections related to oil pollution prevention equipment, including OWS, piping, valves, and pollution control equipment. Ensure that records are organized and readily accessible for verification.

6. Training Records: Keep records of crew training sessions and drills related to oil pollution prevention and response. Document attendance and topics covered during training sessions for verification by the surveyor.

By carrying out these checks, preparations, and maintaining accurate records, I can ensure that the vessel is fully prepared for the IOPP renewal survey and demonstrate compliance with international regulations governing oil pollution prevention.