(b) Regulations to Reduce Chemical Pollution
The primary regulations for minimizing pollution from chemical cargoes are outlined in SOLAS Chapter VII, Part-B. These regulations refer to specific codes that govern the construction and equipment of chemical tankers.
- IBC Code: For tankers built on or after July 1, 1986, they must comply with the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code).
- BCH Code: Tankers built before July 1, 1986, must adhere to the Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (BCH Code).
These codes establish standards for the safe carriage of chemical cargoes and play a significant role in preventing pollution.
Discharge Criteria and Tank Residue Limits
The regulations also specify the maximum permissible tank residues and the criteria for discharging these residues into the sea.
Date of Construction | Category X Residue Limit (litres) |
Before July 1, 1986 | 300 |
July 1, 1986, to January 1, 2007 | 100 |
After January 1, 2007 | 75 |
Discharge Criteria:
To discharge tank residues at sea, a vessel must meet the following conditions:
- The ship must be en route.
- The discharge must be below the waterline.
- The ship must be at least 12 nautical miles from the nearest land and in water with a minimum depth of 25 meters.
- No discharge is permitted in the Antarctic Area.