Fathom Launches Guide to Operational Issues with ECA Compliance

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Wednesday January 21, 2015

Maritime publisher Fathom has announced the launch of its latest guide, Operating in Emission Control Areas [ECAs]: The Guide & On-Board Manual labelling it a "new industry resource."

Fathom said its guide offers practical guidance tools to help shipowners deal with a wide range of operational issues that may arise.

"Whilst many ship owners and operators and their crews are somewhat aware that there may be issues, they do not realise the full range of these and the impact they can have on vessels," said Fathom Director, Alison Jarabo.

The guide has been produced by Fathom as a response to shipowner concerns highlighted in a recent survey.

70 percent of respondents reportedly suggested that the operational aspects of operating within ECAs are of greater concern than increased fuel costs.

"Mechanical problems resulting from the change in fuel properties were by far the biggest concern and potential challenge," said Fathom.

Irish tanker business Ardmore Shipping also said that ECA compliance was more complex than merely buying bunkers with no more than 0.10 percent sulfur content by weight.

"If [shipowners] do not fully understand the operational considerations and prepare their vessels accordingly, serious mechanical issues can result that can in turn result in potentially serious loss of power incidences," said Ardmore Shipping COO, Mark Cameron.

Dryad Maritime Friday said that additional costs from operational changes as a result of 2015 ECA rules were inevitable.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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