An annual report for each vessel which is covered under the Vessel General Permit (VGP2013) has to be created and submitted to US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) until end of February 2015. The report requests different information about the usage of on board treatment systems, like ballast water treatment, greywater treatment, OWS, exhaust gas scrubber, etc. The report could be created online as far as the user and its vessels are duly registered at EPA's internet database.
Link to: EPA CDX Login (VGP2013 Database)

On 1st of January 2015 the International Maritime Solid Bulk Code incorporating Amendment 02-13 becomes mandatory for all bulker or general cargo ships which are able to transport solid cargo in bulk. The Code should be provided on board affected vessels.

On 1st of January 2015 the next step of MARPOL Annex VI requirements enter into force where the max sulphur content in marine fuels used inside of Emission Control Areas must not exceed 0.1%.
In this connection MARSIG has updated its "ECA Fuel Change-over Manual" which includes all applicable regulations, a suitable reporting form, and an improved and simplyfied Excel Calculation for determining the Change-over Lead Time when switching from high sulphur to low sulphur fuel by blending in service tank.
Please request an offer in case you are interested in.

Due to the fact that the ratification of the Ballast Water Convention by 30 states representing 35% of the world merchant shipping tonnage is being delayed, IMO has adopted Resolution A.1088(28) which introduces a relaxed phase-in period of the treatment standards for existing vessels. The resolution sets out new implementation dates which will come into effect when the Convention enters into force.
For more details refer to:
- IMO Resolution A.1088(28) (44 kB)
- IoM Circular on new BWM Convention Implementation Schedule (152 kB)

Different MoU Regions on Port State Control will start a Concentrated Inspection Campaign on Hours of Rest beginning on 1 September 2014. Below you could download an information notice of the Isle of Man Administration in this regard where different questions should help you to check the on board compliance with the regulations.
For more details refer to:
- PSC CIC Information by Isle of Man

We have concluded our complete overhauling in our office and are happy being online again. We are sorry for any inconveniences which have been experienced during the last days.

On 1st July 2014 the adopted SOLAS amendment which requires ship-specific plans/procedures for the recovery of persons from the water enter into force. MARSIG has developed such procedures and could offer them to its clients including ship-specific adaptations.
For more details refer to:
- MSC.1/Circ.1447 - Guidelines for the Development of Plans for Recovery of Persons from the Water (19 kB)
- Resolution MSC.338(91) - SOLAS Amendment (785 kB)

On 1st January 2014 Phase II of the California Regulation on fuel sulfur for ocean-going vessels within California Waters came into force. Main engines, auxiliaries and oil-fired boilers have to be operated only with MDO (DMB) or MGO (DMA) whith a sulfur content at or below 0.1%
For more details refer to:
- California Air Resources Board - Marine Note 2013-1 (150 kB)
- California Fuel Regulation 13 CCR § 2299.2 (80 kB)
- California Fuel Regulation 17 CCR § 93118.2 (80 kB)