Guidelines for the control and management of ship`s biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species

Издание на английском языке
The introduction of harmful aquatic organisms to new environments by ships has been identified as a major threat to the world's oceans and to the conservation of biodiversity. Biofouling, described as the undesirable accumulation of microorganisms, plants, algae and animals on submerged structures (especially ships' hulls), is considered one of the main vectors for bioinvasions.
These Guidelines for the control and management of ships' biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species are intended to provide a globally consistent approach to the management of biofouling. They were initially adopted by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MERC) of the International Maritime Organization at its sixty-second session, from 11 to 15 July 2011, in the form of resolution MEPC.207(62) following three years of consultation between IMO Member States, and subsequently revised following four years of consultation culminating in the adoption of the 2023 Biofouling Guidelines by the eightieth session of the MEPC, held from 3 to 7 July 2023. The Guidelines represent a decisive step towards minimizing the transfer of aquatic invasive species by ships.
Port States, flag States, coastal States and other parties that can assist in mitigating the problems associated with biofouling should exercise due diligence to implement the Guidelines to the maximum extent possible. Implementing practices to control and manage biofouling can greatly assist in reducing the risk of transfer of invasive aquatic species. Such management practices can also improve a ship's hydrodynamic performance and can be effective tools in enhancing energy efficiency and reducing air emissions from ships.

Contents
Foreword
Abbreviations
Resolution MEPC.378(80)
Annex
1 introduction
2 Definitions
3 Application
4 Objectives
5 Design and construction
6 Anti-fouling system installation and maintenance
Choosing an AFS
Installing the AFS
Reinstalling, reapplying or repairing the AFS
7 Contingency action plans
8 Inspection
Extent of biofouling and recommended actions
Condition of the AFS
Inspection report
9 Cleaning and maintenance
Procedures for proactive cleaning
Procedures for reactive cleaning
Procedures for recycling facilities
10 Biofouling Management Plan
Continuous improvements
11 Biofouling Record Book
12 Documentation and dissemination of information
13 Training and education
14 Other measures
Appendices
Appendix 1 Assessment of biofouling risk
Appendix 2 Inspection and cleaning reports
Appendix 3 Example form of Biofouling Management Plan
Appendix 4 Example form of Biofouling Record Book