Appendix 1: Biofouling Management Plan

APPENDIX 1

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

APPENDIX

Tab le o f C on t en t s

Biofouling Management Plan

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1

Biofouling Management Plan..................................................................1

Section 1
Ship Particulars.....................................................................2
Section 2
Preamble...............................................................................3
Section 3
Introduction...........................................................................4
Section 4
Crew Review and Revision History.......................................6
Section 5
Definitions.............................................................................8
Section 6
Purpose of the Biofouling Management Plan........................9
Section 7
Description of the Anti-Fouling System...............................10
Section 8
Description of the Ships Operating Profile..........................11
Section 9
Description of Areas on the Ship Susceptible to
Biofouling............................................................................12
Section 10
Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-Fouling
System................................................................................14
Section 11
Safety Procedures for the Ship and Crew...........................16
Section 12
Disposal of Biological Waste...............................................17
Section 13
Recording Requirements....................................................18
Section 14
Crew Training and Familiarization.......................................19

CHAPTER 2

Biofouling Record Book........................................................................20

CHAPTER 3

International Anti-Fouling System Certificate.....................................24

CHAPTER 4

Plans, Operating and Maintenance Procedures, Schematics...........25

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

ii

Chapter 1: Biofouling Management Plan

CHAPTER

Biofouling Management Plan

CONTENTS
SECTION 1

Ship Particulars........................................................................................2

SECTION 2

Preamble...................................................................................................3

SECTION 3

Introduction..............................................................................................4
Concept of the Plan........................................................................................ 4
Objective of the Biofouling Management Plan and Biofouling
Record Book................................................................................................... 5

SECTION 4

Crew Review and Revision History........................................................6

TABLE 1
Crew Review............................................................................6
TABLE 2
Revision History.......................................................................7

SECTION 5

Definitions.................................................................................................8

SECTION 6

Purpose of the Biofouling Management Plan.......................................9

SECTION 7

Description of the Anti-Fouling System...............................................10

SECTION 8

Description of the Ships Operating Profile.........................................11

TABLE 3
Ships Operating Profile..........................................................11

SECTION 9

Description of Areas on the Ship Susceptible to Biofouling.............12

TABLE 4
Biofouling Management Action Plan.......................................12

SECTION 10 Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-Fouling System...................14

SECTION 11 Safety Procedures for the Ship and Crew...........................................16
TABLE 5
Safety.....................................................................................16
SECTION 12 Disposal of Biological Waste................................................................17
SECTION 13 Recording Requirements......................................................................18
SECTION 14 Crew Training and Familiarization........................................................19

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 1: Ship Particulars

SECTION

Ship Particulars
[The following items are to be ship specific]

Ships Name: XXXXX

ABSID: XXXXX

Flag: XXXXX

Port of Registry: XXXXX

Gross Tonnage: XXXXX

Registration Number: IMO number and/or other registration numbers, if applicable

Regulation Length: XXXXX

Length Overall: XXXXX

Length Between Perpendiculars: XXXXX

10

Beam: XXXXX

11

Design Draft: XXXXX

12

Draft Forward: XXXXX

13

Draft Aft: XXXXX

14

Ship Type: XXXXX

15

International Call Sign and Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI): XXXXX

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 2: Preamble

SECTION

Preamble

This Biofouling Management Plan and Biofouling Record Book have been developed to provide guidance
to the Master and the crew of the M/V_XXXXX_. This plan has been prepared to be practical and easy to
implement to assist in understanding the vessels anti-fouling systems and operational practices used to
minimize the risk of the transfer of invasive aquatic species via biofouling of the vessels hull and appendages.
The following items have been included in this Biofouling Management Plan:
CHAPTER 1:

Biofouling Management Plan

SECTION 1:

Ship Particulars

SECTION 2:

Preamble

SECTION 3:

Introduction

SECTION 4:

Crew Review and Revision History

SECTION 5:

Definitions

SECTION 6:

Purpose of the Biofouling Management Plan

SECTION 7:

Description of the Anti-fouling System

SECTION 8:

Description of the Ships Operating Profile

SECTION 9:

Description of Areas on the Ship Susceptible to Biofouling

SECTION 10:

Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-fouling System

SECTION 11:

Safety Procedures for the Ship and Crew

SECTION 12:

Disposal of Biological Waste

SECTION 13:

Recording Requirements

SECTION 14:

Crew Training and Familiarization

CHAPTER 2:

Biofouling Record Book

CHAPTER 3:

International Anti-Fouling System Certificate (Sample only)

CHAPTER 4:

Plans, Operating and Maintenance Procedures, Schematics

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 3: Introduction

SECTION

Introduction

While the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water and Sediments,
2004 (BWM Convention) is aimed at preventing, minimizing and ultimately eliminating the risk to the
environment, human health and property arising from the transfer of organisms and pathogens via a ships
ballast water, studies have shown that biofouling can also be a significant means for the transfer of invasive
aquatic species. The establishment of invasive aquatic species, resulting from ship biofouling, may pose
threats to human, animal, and plant life, economic and cultural activities, and the aquatic environment in
waters visited by a ship during its voyages. Noting that several factors including biological, environmental
and propagule pressure, all contribute to the risk associated with a species becoming invasive, marine
scientists and other stakeholders have determined that reducing the propagule pressure is not only the most
effective means to lower the risk, but it is the only means that can be utilized by the maritime industry.
While the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships, 2001 (AFS
Convention) addresses anti-fouling systems and biocides that these coatings may contain, it does not
consider the potential for spreading or transferring invasive aquatic species.
All ships have some degree of biofouling, and this is applicable to even those ships which have had a recent
change or have had a new application of an anti-fouling coating system. Studies have shown that the
biofouling process begins within the first few hours of a ships immersion in water. The biofouling that
may be found on a ship is influenced by a range of factors, including, but not limited to:
1)

Design and construction, particularly the number, location and design of recesses and appendages
to the hull, resulting in niche areas

2)

Specific operating profiles, including factors such as operating speed, duration of time underway
when compared to the time alongside, moored or at anchor, and where the ship is located when not
in operation (e.g., open anchorage or an estuarine port)

3)

Places visited and trading routes

4)

Maintenance history, including, the type, age, and condition of any antifouling coating system,
installation and operation of anti-fouling systems, drydocking/slipping, and hull cleaning practices

Implementing practices to control and manage biofouling can greatly assist in reducing the risk of the
transfer of invasive aquatic species. Such management practices have been implemented on this ship and have
served to improve this ships performance, enhance energy efficiency and reduce air emissions.

Concept of the Plan

The Biofouling Management Plan on this ship is a guide to the Master and crew assisting in the safe operation
of the anti-fouling systems installed onboard. Effective planning is required so that the necessary actions
are performed in a structured, logical and safe manner.
In order for the Biofouling Management Plan to accomplish its purpose, this plan has been designed to be:
1)

Practical

2)

Easily understood and used by the ships personnel and by shore-based staff involved in the
operation of the ship

3)

Evaluated, reviewed and updated as necessary

4)

Consistent with the anti-fouling systems fitted on the ship

This plan is a simple document, and the inclusion of extensive background information has been limited
and is in the working language of the ship. An English translation is always maintained onboard this ship.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Chapter
Section

1
3

Biofouling Management Plan

Introduction

Objective of the Biofouling Management Plan and Biofouling Record Book

The objective of this Biofouling Management Plan is to provide practical guidance to the Master and the
crew of the ship, as well as other interested parties, on measures that can be used to minimize the risk of
transferring invasive aquatic species present in the ships biofouling between geographical locations. All
biofouling management procedures employed are considered to be environmentally safe, practical, designed
to minimize cost and delays to the ship, and based on the guidance contained in Resolution MEPC.207(62),
Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships Biofouling to Minimize the Transfer of Invasive Aquatic
Species.
To minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species, the ship has implemented biofouling management
practices, including the use of anti-fouling systems, routine hull and propeller cleaning, and other operational
management practices to impair the development of biofouling. The intent of these practices is to keep the
ships submerged surface and internal seawater cooling systems as free of biofouling as practical.
The Biofouling Management Plan is supplemented by the Biofouling Record Book which is also specific
to this ship. The Biofouling Record Book details all the inspections and biofouling management measures
undertaken by this ship. The Record Book provides the information necessary to assist the shipowner,
Master and crew to evaluate the efficacy of the specific anti-fouling system and the associated operational
practices on the ship and, more generally, the overall effectiveness of the biofouling management plan. The
information recorded in the Biofouling Record Book in Chapter 2 has been recorded as soon as possible to
avoid possible omissions or uncertainties.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 4: Crew Review and Revision History

SECTION

Crew Review and Revision History

TABLE 1
Crew Review
[The following items are to be ship specific]

Name

Position/Rank

Date of Review

Signature

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

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xxxxx

xxxxx

Xxxxx

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Chapter
Section

1
4

Biofouling Management Plan

Crew Review and Revision History

TABLE 2
Revision History
Current Version

Created by
(Position/Rank)

Date of Revision

Revision Description

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

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xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

xxxxx

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 5: Definitions

SECTION

Definitions

AFS Convention: The International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships,
2001.
Anti-fouling Coating System: The combination of all component coatings, surface treatments (including
primer, sealer, binder, anti-corrosive and anti-fouling coatings) or other surface treatments, used on a ship
to control or prevent attachment of unwanted aquatic organisms.
Anti-fouling System: A coating, paint surface treatment, surface or device that is used on a ship to control
or prevent attachment of unwanted organisms.
Biofouling: The accumulation of aquatic organisms such as microorganisms, plants, and animals on
surfaces and structures immersed in or exposed to the aquatic environment. Biofouling can include microfouling
and macrofouling.
In-water Cleaning: The physical removal of biofouling from a ship while in the water.
Invasive Aquatic Species: A species which may pose threats to human, animal, and plant life, economic
and cultural activities, and the aquatic environment.
Marine Growth Prevention System (MGPS): An anti-fouling system used for the prevention of biofouling
accumulation in internal seawater cooling systems and sea chests including, as applicable, the use of
anodes, injection systems and electrolysis.
Macrofouling: Large, distinct multicellular organisms visible to the human eye, such as barnacles, tubeworms,
or fronds of algae.
Microfouling: Microscopic organisms including bacteria and diatoms and the slimy substances that they may
produce. Biofouling comprised of only microfouling is commonly referred to as a slime layer.
Niche Areas: Areas on a ship that may be more susceptible to biofouling due to different hydrodynamic
forces, susceptibility to coating systems wear or damage, or being inadequately, or not painted (e.g., sea
chests, bow thrusters, propeller shafts, inlet gratings, drydock support strips, etc.).
Ship: A vessel of any type whatsoever operating in the aquatic environment, including hydrofoil boats,
air-cushion vehicles, submersibles, floating craft, fixed or floating platforms, floating storage units (FSUs),
and floating production storage and offloading units (FPSOs).

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 6: Purpose of the Biofouling Management Plan

SECTION

Purpose of the Biofouling Management Plan

The purpose of this Biofouling Management Plan is to outline the measures for the control and management
of biofouling experienced by the ship in accordance with the MEPC.207(62) Guidelines for the Control
and Management of Ships Biofouling to Minimize the Transfer of Invasive Aquatic Species.
As it has been determined by marine scientists and other competent authorities that biofouling of ships
provides a pathway for the transfer of invasive aquatic species, these authorities have agreed to and promulgated
internationally accepted guidelines aimed at reducing the potential risk caused by biofouling. The Biofouling
Management Plan provides guidance to the Master and crew to reduce this risk by identifying the procedures
and measures to be taken throughout the ships life. The implementation of this plan enables the crew to
prepare the necessary actions required in order to comply with the guidance given.
Each operation concerning those measures used to reduce biofouling is to be fully recorded without delay
in the Biofouling Record Book. These records are considered an important element contributing to the
successful reduction in the spread of invasive aquatic species and provide documentation that the ship has
taken appropriate measures, as described in the plan, to reduce the risk of transfer of aquatic invasive
species.
Authorized port State officers may inspect the Biofouling Management Plan and the Biofouling Record
Book onboard the ship as a means to confirm the level of management undertaken by the ships Master and
crew.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

Section 7: Description of the Anti-Fouling System

SECTION

Description of the Anti-Fouling System

[The following items are to be ship specific]

The anti-fouling systems and operational practices onboard this ship are the primary means of biofouling
prevention and control for the ships submerged surfaces, including the hull and niche areas. The anti-fouling
systems onboard this ship are in general coating systems applied to exposed surfaces, biofouling resistant
materials used for piping and other unpainted components, marine growth prevention systems (MGPSs)
for sea chests and internal seawater cooling systems, and miscellaneous other innovative measures to
control biofouling.
Chapter 4 of this Biofouling Management Plan describes in detail the various anti-fouling systems in place
for the different parts of this ship, which include but are not limited to, the following:

Type(s) and details of anti-fouling coating system applied

Type(s) and details of the Marine Growth Prevention System (MGPS) installed

Details of where anti-fouling systems are and are not applied or installed

Name of the manufacturer and product names of all coatings or products used in the anti-fouling
coatings systems
Anti-fouling systems specifications (including dry film thickness for coatings, dosings and
frequency for MGPSs, etc.) together with the expected effective life, operating conditions required for
coatings to be effective, cleaning requirements and any other specifications relevant for paint
performance
The documentation attached includes drawings, tables or texts as applicable intended to be easily understood
by the ships Master and crew.
Previous reports on the performance of the ships anti-fouling systems are also attached, as applicable,
together with the Ships International Anti-fouling System Certificate in Chapter 3 and other statements of
compliance or other documentation referenced, as appropriate.
Chapter 4 is current and has been updated to annotate any changes to the anti-fouling systems, including
modifications to the MGPS, as appropriate.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

10

Section 8: Description of the Ships Operating Profile

SECTION

Description of the Ships Operating Profile

TABLE 3
Ships Operating Profile
[The following items are to be ship specific]

Typical operating speeds

XXXXXX

Static periods berthed, anchored or moored/year (days)

XXXXXX

Periods underway/year

XXXXXX

Percentage of periods underway/static periods

XXXXXX

Typical areas of operation or trading routes

XXXXXX

Planned Duration between drydocking/slippings

XXXXXX

The Ships operating profile detailed in the above tabulation Table 3 was instrumental in the determination of the
selection of the most appropriate anti-fouling systems to be installed on the ship complemented with the best
practices for the operating and maintenance procedures to be followed.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

11

Section 9: Description of Areas on the Ship Susceptible to Biofouling

SECTION

Description of Areas on the Ship Susceptible to

Biofouling
TABLE 4
Biofouling Management Action Plan
[The following items are to be ship specific]

Areas of the ship which are

particularly susceptible to
biofouling
External hull surfaces
Vertical sides

Management actions required for each

area (e.g., inspections, cleaning, repairs
and maintenance)

Management actions to be undertaken if

ship operates outside its usual operating
profile

Example of actions

Example of actions

xxxxx

xxxxx

Example of actions

Example of actions

xxxxx

xxxxx

Example of actions

Example of actions

xxxxx

xxxxx

Flats
Boottop
Bow dome
Transom
Hull appendage and fittings:
Bilge keels
A-brackets
CP anodes
Steering and propulsion:
Propeller
Propeller shaft
Stern tube seal
Anchor Chain
Chain locker
Rope guard
Rudder

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

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Chapter
Section

1
9

Biofouling Management Plan

Description of Areas on the Ship Susceptible to Biofouling

TABLE 4 (continued)
Biofouling Management Action Plan
Areas of the ship which are
particularly susceptible to
biofouling

Management actions required for each

area (e.g., inspections, cleaning, repairs
and maintenance)

Management actions to be undertaken if

ship operates outside its usual operating
profile

Seawater intakes and internal

seawater cooling systems:

Example of actions

Example of actions

xxxxx

xxxxx

Engine cooling system

Sea chests (identify number and
position)
Sea chest grate
Internal pipework and heat
exchanger
Fire-fighting system
Ballast uptake system
Auxiliary services system

Please refer to the detailed Schematics included in Chapter 4 for the areas of the ship most susceptible to
biofouling.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

13

Section 10: Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-Fouling System

10 Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-Fouling

System

SECTION

[The following items are to be ship specific]

The Operational and Maintenance procedures adhered to on this ship are as given in the details included in
Chapter 4. These details have been listed in the following three parts:
1)

Timing and operation of maintenance activities

2)

In-water cleaning and maintenance procedures

3)

Operation of onboard treatment process

During the installation, renewal, or repairs to the anti-fouling system, this ship in general follows the
following maintenance procedures:
1)

During the activities of installing, re-installing or repairing the anti-fouling system, special attention
is paid to surface preparation so that any biofouling residues, flaking paint, or other surface
contamination are removed to the greatest extent possible, particularly in niche areas, to facilitate
good adhesion and durability of the newly applied anti-fouling system.

2)

Sea Chests:
a)

Suitable anti-fouling coatings systems are used for the inlet gratings and the internal surfaces
of the sea chests to promote optimum flow conditions of seawater over the grate and
through the sea chest;

b)

Specific attention is paid to the corners and edges of sea chests, blowout pipes, holding
brackets, and the bars of grates. Based on their condition, detailed surface preparation may
be required for selected gratings at each drydocking to promote coating durability; and

c)

A continuous process of inspections is used to verify the proper functioning of the MGPS.
The procedure followed carefully evaluates the consequential effects of the MGPSs,
including the potential effects on the ship and/or the environment and the existence of
regulations affecting the use of MGPSs.

For other niche areas that may be particularly susceptible to biofouling growth, the following management
measures to be followed are outlined below:
a)

Drydocking support strips The position of drydocking blocks and supports are varied at each
drydocking, so that areas under the blocks are painted with anti-fouling, at least at alternate
drydockings. These areas receive a major refurbishment-type of surface preparation and are coated
at each drydocking when they are accessible. Where it is not possible to alternate the position of
drydocking support strips (e.g., in critical weight-bearing areas such as under the engine-room),
these areas are specially considered and managed by other means (e.g., the application of specialized
coatings or procedures).

b)

Edges and weld joints Exposed edges on the hull, such as around bilge keels and scoops, and
weld joints, are faired and coated to provide adequate coating thickness to optimize system
effectiveness.

c)

Rudder hinges All recesses within the hinges of the rudder are carefully and effectively cleaned
and re-coated at maintenance drydockings. Rudders are moved through their full range of motion
during the coating process so that all surfaces are coated to the specification of the anti-fouling
system. Rudders, rudder fittings and the hull areas around them are adequately coated to withstand
the increased wear rates experienced in these areas.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

14

Chapter
Section

1 Biofouling Management Plan

10 Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-Fouling System

d)

Propeller and shaft Fouling release coatings are applied to propellers and immersed propeller
shafts, where possible and appropriate, to maintain efficiency and enable self-cleaning, so that the
need for regular in-water cleaning and polishing is minimized.

e)

Stern tube seal assemblies and the internal surfaces of rope guards Anti-fouling paint is
carefully applied to the exposed sections of the stern tube seal assemblies and the internal surfaces
of rope guards. The application is made appropriate to the degree of water movement over and
around these surfaces.

f)

Cathodic protection (CP) anodes To minimize biofouling in niche areas anodes are flush-fitted
to the hull, and either a rubber backing pad is inserted between the anode and the hull, or
alternatively the gap is caulked or otherwise sealed to provide watertightness. If not flush-fitted,
the hull surface under the anode and the anode strap is coated with an anti-fouling coating system
suitable for low water flow to prevent biofouling accumulation. In areas where anodes are attached
by bolts recessed into the anode surface, the recess is caulked to remove a potential niche.

g)

Pitot tubes Where retractable pitot tubes are fitted, the housing is internally coated with an antifouling coating system suitable for static conditions.

h)

Sea inlet pipes and overboard discharges Anti-fouling coating systems are applied inside the
pipe openings and accessible internal areas. The anti-corrosive or primer coating selected should
be appropriate to the specific pipe material if this material is different to the hull. Care should be
taken in surface preparation and coating application to provide good adhesion and coating thickness.

Throughout the design process, careful consideration was given to the selection of the anti-fouling systems
provided on the ship. The Owners and designers evaluated various systems, noting the intended operating
profile, the planned periods between drydockings, ship speed, legal requirements associated with the sale
and use of the anti-fouling systems, as well as the longevity of the coating with the expected wear, abrasion
and water flow rates in way of the bow and rudder.
Having completed their evaluation, the Owners selected the anti-fouling systems detailed in Chapter 4.
As part of the ships normal routine maintenance, an inspection of the ships bottom occurs at intervals
specified in Chapter 4, as has been deemed necessary by the ships management. Should a breakdown in
the coating be observed, the ships crew, together with representatives of the Owners technical staff will
evaluate the breakdown and make repair recommendations accordingly. The schedule for the repair is
related to the size and nature of the repair and the vessels schedule (availability).
Should it be determined that a cleaning of the submerged portion of the ships hull is required, the crew
contacts the head office to determine the appropriate location and the equipment necessary to conduct the
cleaning.
Any cleaning or removal of biofouling is to be conducted in accordance with coastal state laws and
regulations and this Biofouling Management Plan.
In addition to the above referenced anti-fouling coating system(s), the Operation and Maintenance procedures
of the ships installed Marine Growth Prevention System (MGPS) is also specified in Chapter 4.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

15

Section 11: Safety Procedures for the Ship and Crew

SECTION

11 Safety Procedures for the Ship and Crew

The Master and crew of this ship adhere to the detailed and applicable safety procedures specified in the
managements International Safety Management (ISM) manual.
1.

Provisions have been made for safe practices in ship operation and a safe working environment;

2.

Safeguards against identified risks have been established; and

3.

Safety-management skills of personnel ashore and aboard, including preparing for emergencies
related both to safety and environmental protection are subject to continuous improvement.

In addition, the safety measures mandated as per the manufacturers recommendations for the various antfouling systems installed are part of the ships routine and best safety practices followed during operation,
inspection and maintenance.
The following tabulation is non-exhaustive and specifies a list of possible areas with associated risks and
the precautions to be taken by the ships crew.

TABLE 5
Safety
[The following items are to be ship specific]
ITEM

ASSOCIATED WITH

ASSOCIATED HAZARD

MITIGATION MEASURES

In-water cleaning

Cleaning crew; Cleaning

equipment

Propeller turning during

maintenance on the main
engine or steering movement
causing likelihood of injury to
cleaning workers and probable
damage to cleaning equipment

Lock-out &Tag-out
Prohibiting propeller and
rudder movement, logged in
the ships log

In-water cleaning

Cleaning crew

Near misses, injury to noncertified cleaning crew

The use of qualified

underwater cleaning companies
with experienced and certified
workers

In-water cleaning

Cleaning crew; Cleaning

equipment

Main Sea Suctions &

Discharges in Operation
causing ingestion of biofouling
matter in to the sea water
piping or full flow discharges
of the main sea water system
on cleaning crew attending to
main sea chests, boiler blow
down shipside outlet

Lock-out &Tag-out
Prohibiting Opening or closing
of relevant valves without the
permission of a ships
responsible officer and the
Biofouling Management
Officer logged in the ships log

Marine Growth Prevention

System (Injection of sodium
hypochlorite (NaOCl)

Sea water piping

Accelerated corrosion of the

sea water piping by over
dosing with NaOCL

Proper monitoring of the

Monitoring and Control system
with appropriate adjustment of
voltage to the cell

Marine Growth Prevention

System (Injection of sodium
hypochlorite (NaOCl)

Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)

dosing piping

Ineffective corrosion
protection of sea water piping
components causing
accelerated bio-fouling

Proper Planned Maintenance

procedures in place with
special emphasis of inspection
of the dosing of piping systems
at regular intervals

XXXXX

XXXXX

XXXXX

XXXXX

XXXXX

XXXXX

XXXXX

XXXXX

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

16

Section 12: Disposal of Biological Waste

SECTION

12 Disposal of Biological Waste

[The following items may be ship specific]

The disposal of biological waste generated by the cleaning process when the cleaning is conducted by or
under the direct supervision of the shipowner, Master or crew is consistent with applicable national and
local laws and regulations, so that viable (able to take root and grow/likely to survive) biofouling or
chemical and physical pollutants are not released into the local aquatic environment where they may cause
harm.
The Master and the crew are to make every effort to minimize the release of organisms into the local
environment and that adequate measures are adopted when cleaning immersed areas coated with biocidal
anti-fouling coatings, so as to prevent the premature depletion of the anti-fouling coating system and the
creation of a pulse of biocides that can harm the local environment.
In general the Master and crew adhere to the following measures:
1.

In-water cleaning is to be conducted in accordance with applicable national and local laws and
regulations.

2.

In-water cleaning shall not be conducted in marine sensitive areas (such as marine sanctuaries,
marine preserves, marine parks, or coral reefs, areas where tidal flushing is known to be poor).

3.

Removal of microfouling is to be performed by soft methods aimed at preventing damage to the

anti-fouling coating system.

4.

Routine cleaning of the microfouling reduces the likelihood of spreading invasive aquatic species
by preventing macrofouling accumulation.

5.

Where significant macrofouling growth is detected, it is removed or treated (if this can be done
without damaging the anti-fouling coating system). Such removal or treatment is conducted in
such a manner as to minimize the release of both anti-fouling coatings or paint debris, and viable adult,
juvenile, or reproductive stages of macrofouling organisms. Any material collected is disposed of
in a manner which does not pose a risk to the aquatic environment.

6.

Caution is exercised when cleaning heavily fouled anti-fouling coating systems which may result
in a premature depletion of the anti-fouling coating system and may create a pulse of biocide that
can harm the local environment. Depleted anti-fouling coating systems on hulls will rapidly refoul. In-water cleaning or scrubbing of hulls for the purposes of delaying drydockings beyond the
specified service life of the coating is in general avoided.

7.

During drydocking periods, the Master obtains confirmation from the facility that measures
consistent with applicable national and local laws and regulation aimed at preventing biofouling
organisms or chemical and physical pollutants from being released into the local aquatic
environment, have been implemented.

8.

Retractable equipment, such as transduces and similar equipment, have been lowered and extended
to permit access for the removal of biofouling from the equipment and its housing.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

17

Section 13: Recording Requirements

SECTION

13 Recording Requirements
[The following items are to be ship specific]

The ability to assess the effectiveness of the anti-fouling systems is necessary to determine complyiance with the
companys environmental policies and practices. Accordingly, the information recorded within the
Biofouling Record Book is to be accurate and timely so as to minimize the possibility of omission or
errors.
The information recorded in the Biofouling Record Book includes the following:
1.

Details of the anti-fouling systems including where and when the anti-fouling system has been
installed, and of operational practices (e.g., in-water cleaning, rinsing of anchors and anchor chains to
remove organisms when the anchor is retrieved),

2.

Dates and location of drydockings

3.

Measures taken to remove biofouling or to renew or repair the anti-fouling system

4.

The date and location of in-water inspections, the results of inspections, and any corrective action
taken to deal with observed biofouling

5.

The dates and details of inspection and maintenance of internal sea water cooling systems, the
results of these inspections, and any corrective actions taken to deal with the observed biofouling
and any reported blockages

6.

Details of when the ship has been operating outside its normal operating profile including any
details of when the ship was laid-up or inactive for extended periods of time.

An example of a Biofouling Record Book and the information to be recorded is as in Chapter 2.

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

18

Section 14: Crew Training and Familiarization

SECTION

14 Crew Training and Familiarization

[The following items may be supplemented by additional ship specific items]

The Master onboard this vessel has designated the ---XXXXXX--- as the ships Biofouling Management
Officer.
The Biofouling Management Officer together with the Master is responsible for providing instructions
for the training of:
1.

The ships master and crew

2.

In-water cleaning or maintenance facility operators

3.

Those surveying or inspecting the ship as appropriate

These instructions are those relevant to the application of biofouling management and treatment procedures,
based upon the information contained in this Biofouling Management Plan.
Training and familiarization are provided regularly on the following:
a)

Maintenance of appropriate records and logs

b)

Impacts of invasive aquatic species from ships biofouling

c)

Benefits to the ship of managing biofouling and the threats posed by not applying management
procedures

d)

Biofouling management measures and associated safety procedures

e)

Relevant health and safety issues

f)

National and local regulations for reporting the biofouling measures in place

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

19

Chapter 2: Biofouling Record Book

CHAPTER

Biofouling Record Book

CONTENTS
1

Entries in the Biofouling Record Book..............................................22

1.1

After each drydocking.....................................................................22

1.2

When the hull area, fittings, niches and voids below the
waterline have been inspected by divers.......................................22

1.3

When the hull area, fittings, niches and voids below the
waterline have been cleaned by divers..........................................22

1.4

When the internal seawater cooling systems have been

inspected and cleaned or treated..................................................22

1.5

For vessels equipped with MGPS..................................................23

1.6

Periods of time when the ship was laid up/inactive for an

extended period..............................................................................23

1.7

Periods of time when the vessel operated outside its normal

operating profile..............................................................................23

1.8

Details of official inspection or review of the vessels biofouling

risk (for ships arriving internationally, if applicable)........................23

Record Book Management Actions............................................................24

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

20

Chapter

Biofouling Record Book

Entries in the Biofouling Record Book

The following information should be recorded in the Biofouling Record Book.

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

After each drydocking

i)
Date and location that the vessel was drydocked
ii)

Date that the vessel was re-floated

iii)

Any hull cleaning that was performed while drydocked, including identifying the area cleaned,
method used for cleaning, and the location of the drydock support blocks

iv)

Details of any anti-fouling coating system, including patch repairs, that was applied while drydocked.
The details of the anti-fouling coating are to include, the area and location it was applied to, the
coating thickness achieved, and the surface preparation work undertaken (e.g., complete removal
of underlying anti-fouling coating system or application of new anti-fouling coating system over
the top of existing anti-fouling coating systems).

When the hull area, fittings, niches, and voids below the waterline have been
inspected by divers
i)
Date and location of the vessel when the dive survey was undertaken and the reason for the survey
ii)

Area or side of the vessel surveyed

iii)

General observations with regard to biofouling (i.e., Extent of biofouling and predominant biofouling
types (e.g., mussels, barnacles, tubeworms, algae and slime))

iv)

Action taken, if any, to remove or otherwise treat biofouling

v)

Any supporting evidence of the actions taken (divers report, photographs or receipts)

vi)

Name, position, and signature of the vessels crew member who was in charge of overseeing that
activity

When the hull area, fittings, niches and voids below the waterline have been cleaned
by divers
i)
Date and location of the vessel when cleaning/treatment occurred
ii)

Hull areas, fitting, niches and voids cleaned/treated

iii)

Methods of cleaning or treatment used

iv)

General observations with regard to biofouling (i.e., extent of biofouling and predominant biofouling
types (e.g., mussels, barnacles, tubeworms, algae and slime))

v)

Any supporting evidence of actions taken (divers report, photographs, or receipts)

vi)

Records of permits required to undertake in-water cleaning, if applicable

vii)

Name, position, and signature of the vessels crew member who was in charge of overseeing that
activity

When the internal seawater cooling systems have been inspected and cleaned or
treated
i)
Date and location of the vessel when inspection and/or cleaning occurred
ii)

General observations with regard to biofouling of internal seawater cooling systems (i.e., extent of
biofouling and predominant biofouling types (e.g., mussels, barnacles, tubeworms, algae and slime))

iii)

Any cleaning or treatment undertaken

iv)

Methods of cleaning or treatment used

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

21

Chapter

1.5

v)

Any supporting evidence of the actions taken (e.g., Report from class or contractor, photographs,
and receipts)

vi)

Name, position, and signature of the vessels crew member who was in charge of that activity

For vessels equipped with MGPS

i)
Records of operation and maintenance (i.e., regularly monitoring the electrical and mechanical
functions of the systems)
ii)

1.6

1.7

Any instances that MGPS was not operating in accordance with the biofouling management plan

Periods of time when the ship was laid up/inactive for an extended period
i)
Date and location where the vessel was laid up
ii)

Date when the vessel returned to normal operations

iii)

Maintenance action taken prior to and following the laid up period

iv)

Precautions taken to prevent biofouling accumulation (e.g., sea chest blanked off)

Periods of time when the vessel operated outside its normal operating profile
i)
Duration and dates when the vessel is not operating in accordance with its normal operating profile
ii)

1.8

Biofouling Record Book

Reason for departure from normal operating profile (e.g., unexpected maintenance required, commercial
reasons)

Details of official inspection or review of the vessels biofouling risk (for ships
arriving internationally, if applicable)
i)
Date and location of the vessel when inspection or review occurred
ii)

Port State authority conducting the inspection/review and details of procedures followed or protocol
adhered to and inspectors involved

iii)

Results of the inspection/review

iv)

Name, position, and signature of the vessels crew that was in charge of that activity

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

22

Chapter

Biofouling Record Book

Record Book Management Actions

[The following items are to be ship specific]
Period From: 1 January 2013 to 31 December
2013
Name of Ship: M/V Always Sailing
Registration Number: 12345
Gross Tonnage: 42,000
Flag: Any flag

Item
Number

Record of Management Actions

Signature of Crew
(print/sign) in charge of
action

5 Sep
2012

Main Engine cooling opened; no excessive biofouling observed

Jane Smith

1 Oct
2012

Underwater inspection conducted by AEM Diving propeller polished

Data

Jane Smith/CE
John Jones
John Jones/Chief Mate

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

23

Chapter 3: International Anti-Fouling System Certificate

CHAPTER

International Anti-Fouling System Certificate

[The following certificate is ship specific and issued by ABS]

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

24

Chapter 4: Plans, Operating and Maintenance Procedures, Schematics

CHAPTER

Plans, Operating and Maintenance Procedures,

Schematics
[The following items are to be ship specific]

1)

Copy of the vessels General Arrangement Plan

2)

Copy of the vessels docking plan from the two most recent out-of-water maintenance operations

3)

Description of the anti-fouling systems used, including those used for niche areas. The descriptions
shall include, at a minimum:
a)

Type(s) and details of the anti-fouling coating system applied

b)

Type(s) and details of Operation and Maintenance procedures for the Marine Growth
Prevention System (MGPS) installed

c)

Details of where anti-fouling systems are and are not applied or installed

d)

Name of the manufacturer and product names of all coatings or products used in the antifouling coatings systems

e)

Anti-fouling systems specifications (including dry film thickness for coatings, dosings
and frequency for MGPSs, etc.) together with the expected effective life, operating
conditions required for coatings to be effective, cleaning requirements, and any other
specifications relevant for paint performance

4)

Detailed schematics of the areas of the ship most susceptible to bio-fouling

5)

Operation and Maintenance of the Anti-fouling System:

a)

Timing and Operation of maintenance Activities related to the anti-fouling system

(These may be related to propellers, sea chests, rope guards, coatings, echo-sounders,
probes, anchor chains, overboard suctions and outlets, etc.)
To include schedules for:

b)

1)

Planned Maintenance

2)

Inspections

3)

Repairs

4)

Renewals

In water cleaning and maintenance procedures

(These may include cleaning required to maintain hull efficiency, prevention of hull fouling,
removal of macrofouling if detected, propeller polishing if applicable for non-coated
propellers, Procedures and Regulations of local Administrations prohibiting the discharge
of cleaning chemicals or pollution by biofouling matter, etc.)
To include Procedures for maintenance
1)

Routine Cleaning between drydockings

2)

Inspections between drydockings. This may include non-routine inspections due to

breakdowns occurring with the anti-fouling system.
BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

25

Chapter

Plans, Operating and Maintenance Procedure, Schematics

c)

3)

Repairs carried out between drydockings (these may be related to propellers, sea
chests, rope guards)

4)

Renewals required between drydockings

Operation of onboard treatment process

(Details of the operational procedures for the ships Marine Growth Prevention Systems
(MGPS))
To include details of:
1)

Planned Maintenance

2)

Inspections

3)

Repairs

4)

Renewals

BIOFOULING MANAGEMENT PLAN

SHIP NAME:
IMO NUMBER:

26