BrightMariner
MEO Class II: MEKG MEKM MEP MET SC&S SSEP 📊 Trends
Q6 (20 Marks) International Conventions 🔥 Repeated 4x in exams
SSEP • Written Exam

Discuss on the following with respect AFS Convention:

(a) Salient features and benefits of AFS Convention (5)

(b) Benefits of new generation TBT free paints (5)

(c) Survey and certification requirements for vessels GT 400 and above. (5)

(d) Survey and certification requirements for vessels GT less than 400. (5)

Appeared In: Feb 2026Dec 2024Oct 2023Dec 2022

✓ Verified Model Answer (Text Solution)

Structured for DG Shipping MEO Class II examination scoring criteria.

Exam Ready

Discuss the following with respect to the AFS Convention:

Part (a)

Salient features and benefits of the AFS Convention

Part (b)

Benefits of new generation TBT-free paints

Part (c)

Survey and certification requirements for vessels GT 400 and above

Part (d)

Survey and certification requirements for vessels GT less than 400

(Refer to the detailed answer for 699fa923e1bb95c2b98ad9e3.)

Part (a)

Salient features and benefits: International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships (2001) prohibits the use of organotin (TBT) antifouling; requires that ships not bear organotin-bearing coatings or be treated (sealed/removed); requires surveys and certification (AFSC/Declaration); protects the marine environment and food chain, removes persistent toxic contaminant risk, and provides a global uniform standard so ships can trade. Benefits: healthier marine ecosystems, reduced bioaccumulation, and the promotion of safe, environmentally responsible antifouling options.

Part (b)

Benefits of TBT-free paints: low/acceptable toxicity for non-target organisms, good long-term fouling resistance and reduced drag/fuel/GHG, low-leach (some are biocide-free/fouling-release) meeting special-area/biocide regulations, safer for applicators and for the environment while comparable or better performance.

Part (c)

Vessels GT 400 and above (international voyages): surveyed and certified with an International Anti-fouling System Certificate (AFSC) issued by the flag/RO after initial and occasional/docking survey confirming no organotin (or sealed/removed); the certificate is carried and a Record of the AF system is maintained.

Part (d)

Vessels GT less than 400 (but >=24m per the convention's applicability for the Declaration): carry a Declaration on Anti-fouling System signed by the owner/representative (and/or by the RO) confirming compliance with the ban (no organotin); no statutory periodic survey certificate required but the Declaration is carried and subject to inspection. (Ships under 24 m may also be subject to the ban under national law.)

← Back to SSEP Question Bank Upload Recent Question Paper →