Relational gap analysis for the existing and modified MARPOL annex II requirements

Transportation of chemical goods is different from the other types of oil in maritime transportation. Chemical tankers are more advanced in many ways because of their cargoes which are carried by chemical tankers may be very hazardous and noxious. These chemical tankers have sophisticated cargo operating systems to carry different types of chemicals, in accordance with the requirements of the IBC/BCH Code and accordance with pollution-prevention regulations that are under MARPOLAnnex II. Carriage of chemical cargoes should be carefully planned before loading to prevent casualties. Tank construction types, venting requirements, gauging equipment, vapor detection, compatible fire protection medium, heating requirements, inhibition requirements, density limitations of the product in relation to the cargo tank construction, and pumping requirements have a significant role in safe transportation. MARPOL Annex II is revised and entered into force on 1 January 2007. The revision of Annex II replaced current five pollution category systems which were A, B, C and D, and Appendix III products with a revised four pollution category system; X,Y,Ż and OS (Other Substances). Consequently, in this study, an overviewof revised MARPOL Annex II has done and a comparison has been carried out between old and revised MARPOL Annex II requirements taking into account ship tank types, pollution category of chemical cargoes and safety issues.