Americas News
Expect to be Examined to Verify ECA Compliance
P&I club The West of England has told its members that vessels "must comply with the new regulatory requirements" of the North American Emission Control Area (ECA) where and when it is being enforced beginning 1 August, 2012.
They should also "expect the engine room log book, Oil Record Book, bunker delivery notes, bunker Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and other documentation to be examined during routine Port State Control inspections to verify compliance with the new requirements."
The Club said it was therefore essential that accurate records are maintained, particularly with respect to the specification of all fuel consumed within the ECA as well as all details of any fuel switching operations.
As well as reminding its members of the various requirements for compliance, including the geographical limits of the ECA, The West of England also highlighted the staggered enforcement dates of the ECA.
The U.S. will enforce the ECA from 1 August, 2012, but Canada has said it will delay its enforcement until some time in November 2012, with Transport Canada continuing to enforce Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemical Regulations in the meantime.
The US Caribbean Sea ECA surrounding Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands will become effective on 1 January, 2014.
The West of England P&I club has a worldwide membership and says it has provided insurance for over 150 years, currently covering over 6,000 ships.
