Fixed Fire Extinguishing Foam Concentrate Regulatory Update

In June 2009, the IMO issued MSC.1/Circ. 1312 “Revised Guidelines for the Performance and Testing Criteria and Surveys of Foam Concentrates for Fixed Fire-Extinguishing Systems.” This circular supersedes MSC 582 and adds additional small scale fire testing requirements for protein based alcohol resistant foam concentrates.

DMS is aware that many alcohol resistant fluoroprotein (AR-FP) foam agents currently onboard vessels cannot pass the annual small-scale fire test. Some of these foams are type approved by Classification Societies; however, per the IMO circular, the approvals are only valid until 2012. Shipowners and operators have been searching for a suitable replacement and finding that some “new and improved” AR-FP formulations still cannot meet the criteria. CLICK HERE for Drew Marine Safety’s solution for MSC.1/Circ. 1312 compliant foam concentrates.

Drinking Water Regulatory Update

Under ILO Convention No. 178, some flag states currently require documented evidence of regular inspections of the potable water system and onboard monitoring of the drinking water. When the ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, enters into force, it will require auditors (e.g., class) to verify that there are frequent and documented inspections and monitoring of drinking water. Additionally, PORT STATE CONTROL provisions of the MLC mandate that ships of all countries (irrespective of Flag State ratification) will be subject to inspection. For more specific information on the Drew Marine solution to drinking water monitoring, CLICK HERE.

Low Sulfur Regulatory Update

Beginning July 1, 2010, ships operating in certain designated areas must use fuel with lower sulfur content. There are significant differences in bunkers offered to meet these requirements. Each possible fuel can cause operating problems as a result of compatibility, lubricity and storage. Drew Marine offers solutions to each potential problem. For an overall review of the current regulations and Drew’s prescriptive products and services… CLICK HERE.

Refrigerant Industry Update

This year has brought many changes and challenges to the refrigerant market. Both supply conditions and regulatory implementation have caused variations that have challenged our original supply assumptions. For an explanation of each group of refrigerant, please read our valuable update. CLICK HERE to download Refrigerant Industry Update.

Please contact your local Drew Marine Account Representative for further information.