AUSTRALIA CONFIRMS TOUGH LINE ON SINGLE HULLS

[proud_ionian]

Source: MGN

THE Australian Maritime Safety Authority has confirmed it will take a strict approach to implementing the IMO's accelerated phase out of single-hulled oil tankers.

AMSA notes the IMO phase-out timetable sets 2010 as the principal cut-off date for single-hulled oil tankers, with a strictly limited provision permitting some vessels to continue in service until no later than 2015.

AMSA says in a statement: “ In line with continuing efforts to promote ship safety and environmental protection, AMSA has advised IMO that Australia will be strictly adhering to the IMO phase-out timetable. This means most single-hulled tankers will be denied entry to Australian ports or offshore terminals from 2010. Only single-hulled oil tankers with double bottom or double sides which comply with specific provisions in Regulation 20 will be permitted entry until 2015.”