EMEA News
Turkey Increases Pollution Fines for Ship Operators
Vessels violating anti-pollution regulations in Turkish waters will receive higher fines under a revised fine tariff adopted by the country's authorities, the American Club told its members.
"Accordingly, it is recommended that Members and their masters exercise the utmost care and effort to take all steps not to cause any pollution by leakage/spillage of any kind of materials (i.e., paint, oil, bilges, clean ballast, dirty ballast, all kind of residues, garbage, dirty water, sewage water, laundry water with detergent, lavatory soap water, shower water, dust, rust etc.) during such transits," the club said.
For the current calendar year, vessels can receive fines of up to TRY67.69 ($37.67) per gross tonne of petroleum products spilled, with lower rates for other pollutants including dirty ballast and solid waste.
Marine insurer Skuld also warned members to be particularly careful in the Turkish straits, which it said "present a challenge for navigation and the potential for a major accident is significant unless due care is taken."
Skuld said any ship experiencing an accident in the area must respond quickly and notify the appropriate personnel.
"Members are reminded to ensure that great care is taken, whether in Turkey, or in other jurisdictions, to ensure that the vessel is always in compliance with local anti-pollution rules," the insurer said.
"The trend is for more frequent checks, stricter enforcement and harsher penalties, globally.
"Staying on the right side of the law ensures Members avoid large fines, significant delays, criminal prosecutions and negative reputational impact - as publicity is an increasing likelihood - too."
