Rajiv Nigam, GM, Technical Services Group, Wilhelmsen Ship Management, shares with Lee Kok Leong, our special correspondent, the option of changing to compliant fuel in compliance to IMO 2020.
With the deadline of IMO Sulphur Cap 2020 drawing closer, we understand the owner’s pressing need to keep vessels operational while simultaneously preparing to comply with this environmental regulation.
A ship specific detailed changeover procedure must be available onboard all ships trading between areas with different Sulphur limitations. A calculation system (e.g. FOBAS) shall be used, if required. Crew involved in the changeover process must be fully immersed in all relevant procedures and tasks. This is crucial to prevent potential technical issues such as engine or boiler malfunction.
No time to lose
Wilhelmsen Ship Management (WSM) recommends owners, charterers and ship managers to start the discussion regarding switching to compliant fuel as early as eight months in advance to ensure that the plans materialize and are implemented effectively. If you have chosen to comply by using low Sulphur fuel, begin planning today.
The processes for change must be detailed and precise to minimize complications and non-compliance.
For owners choosing to use compliant fuel, we have enumerated some recommendations below to assist smooth transition. :
Having a good implementation fuel oil/changeover plan is just the beginning of the transition phase. A very important aspect of the plan is to address potential risks that may arise. Read about mitigating potential risks here.
