Bunkering in Singapore: Introduction of Revised Standards
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has issued Port Marine Circular 03-2015 advising of the revised standards on bunkering. The circular, dated 23 February 2015, details the implementation of SS600:2014 Code of Practice for Bunkering and SS524:2014 Quality Management for Bunker Supply Chain.
SS600:2014 has been revised to provide better controls and safeguards with additional requirements for gauging tanks during a bunkering operation. The changes include the following:
Merging of Chapters 1 and 2 of SS600:2008 and restructuring of the code according to the bunkering processes (pre, during and post).
Clause 4 describes the general requirements and Clause 5 covers detailed processes, procedures, roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders – such as ship’s officers and bunker surveyor (if engaged).
SS524:2014 incorporates the latest developments in international quality management systems and practices. Bunker suppliers are required to set up and execute their quality management system based on the requirements of this Singapore Standard as part of the accreditation scheme of bunker suppliers in Singapore.
From 1 September 2015, all bunker suppliers, bunker craft operators and bunker surveyors are required to comply with the requirements of SS600:2014 and SS524:2014.
However the MPA urges shipowners, purchasers of bunkers, charterers, operators and shipping agents to adhere to the latest standards when their vessels call at Singapore for bunkering.
Port Marine Circular 03-2015 can be read here