North-east firm Dales Marine Services (DMS) has entered into a new collaboration to help ship owners meet changing international pollution regulations.
From September next year all vessels sailing internationally carrying seawater as ballast will be required to be fitted with approved ballast water treatment systems (BWTS) on the renewal date of their Internationals Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) certificate.
The new convention was triggered by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) this September giving ship owners a 12-month period to retrofit the systems ahead of its introduction.
The regulation stems from scientific evidence that vessels sailing in international waters are having a detrimental effect on the ecosystems and marine biology of territories they sail into and offload seawater ballast from other waters.
DMS said their collaborative agreement partnership with Glasgow-based Cleanship Solutions has been established to “facilitate a smooth transition” for vessels, whether berthed, in dry dock or laid up.
Kevin Paterson of DMS said: “This is a milestone partnership between our two companies. Founded on our combined experience as leaders in the shipping industry, this partnership is one that is underpinned by the ratification of a global IMO Standard.
“Whilst we at Dales Marine are proud of the collaboration we have formed with Cleanship Solutions, we equally understand the significance and impact this legislation has on the international shipping industry.”
He added: “From speaking with clients already we are finding there is apprehension towards the new regulations as some are not aware of the requirements and what is required for their fleet.
“This partnership will enable our clients to contact us to have a fleet review done to see how they stand with time and costs depending on their vessel requirements. There is also scope to look at clients laid up vessels as this could provide an advantage later when going back into service.”
Under the agreement between the two companies DMS will provide vessel survey, 3D laser scanning, BWTS feasibility studies and engineering and approval scopes related to ballast water management systems.
The firm will also provide pre-fabrication of spools and supports, carry out installation and undertake integration to the vessel, including any ship modifications required to fit the system.
