MARPOL 73/78, ANNEX V:
GARBAGE MANAGEMENT PLANS AND RECORD BOOKS
In September 1995 the International Maritime Organization (IMO) enacted amendments to Annex V of MARPOL 73/78 which required that Garbage Management Plans and Garbage Record Books be carried on all vessels of more than 400 GT, and on those certified to carry 15 persons or more. Additionally, all vessels of more than 12 meters overall length are mandated to display notices to crew and passengers setting out the rules which apply under MARPOL in relation to garbage disposal, and the penalties which apply in the event of the breach of those rules. Effective July 1,1998 these rules will apply to all vessels built prior to July 1, 1997.
Garbage Management Plans
Such plans must identify the shipboard individual having responsibility for garbage management. They must also provide written procedures for its collection, storage, processing, and disposal. If a vessel carries equipment capable of processing garbage the procedures which apply to its use must also be stipulated. The Garbage Management Plan should be prepared in accordance with IMO guidelines and written in the working language of the crew.
The Garbage Record Book
This document must contain details of all garbage discharged, either to reception facilities ashore, or into the sea. The record should include the time, date and position of the vessel, and an estimate of the volume of garbage discharged in cubic meters. For sea discharge, garbage must be categorized by type.
Members are advised to ensure that their vessels are supplied with a Garbage Management Plan and Record Book. If any Member has any questions in regard to the foregoing, the Managers will be pleased to respond.
Yours faithfully,
Joseph E.M. Hughes
Chairman & CEO
Shipowners Claims Bureau, Inc.,
Managers for THE AMERICAN CLUB