IMO PPR 12 Finalizes Guidelines for In-Water Cleaning of Ships’ Biofouling

The 12th session of the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response (PPR 12) recently took place in London from January 27 to 31, 2025. During this session, guidance on in-water cleaning of ships’ biofouling was finalized. This guidance, which is expected to be approved by MEPC 83 in April, includes voluntary procedures for planning, documentation, reporting, and inspection when conducting in-water cleaning. It also provides recommended practices for jurisdictions that wish to approve cleaning operations or test and certify in-water cleaning systems (IWCS).

PPR 12 recognized the need for further work on developing additional guidance on various aspects related to in-water cleaning, such as compatibility testing between coatings and IWCS, methods to assess minimum performance standards for IWCS, and conducting inspections. The upcoming MEPC 83 meeting will consider a new output on the potential development of mandatory requirements for biofouling management. Other highlights from the meeting included the finalization of a circular on guidance for in-water cleaning of ships’ biofouling, revised guidelines on certification of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, and an interim circular allowing bunker ships certified as oil tankers to carry biofuel blends containing up to 30% biofuel.

In addition to the guidance on in-water cleaning, PPR 12 also discussed amendments to MARPOL Annex II regarding cargo tank stripping, tank washing operations, and prewash procedures. The revision of MARPOL Annex IV on sewage treatment, the Action Plan to address marine plastic litter from ships, safety and pollution hazards of chemicals, and amendments to the IBC Code were also reviewed during the meeting. Furthermore, the meeting addressed the carriage of biofuel blends on bunker ships, highlighting the importance of addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainable practices in the maritime industry.

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