Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships' Biofouling to Minimize the Transfer of Invasive Aquatics Species, 2012 Edition (I662E)

These guidelines are intended to provide a globally consistent approach to the management of biofouling. They were adopted by the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee at its 62nd session, from 11th to 15th July 2011, in the form of resolution MEPC.207(62) and are the result of three years of consultation between IMO Member States. The Guidelines represent a decisive step towards regulating the transfer of aquatic invasive species by ships.

As scientific and technological advances are made, the Guidelines will be refined to enable the risk to be more adequately addressed. Port States, flag States, coastal States and other parties that can assist in mitigating the problems associated with biofouling should exercise due diligence to implement the Guidelines to the maximum extent possible.

Resolution MEPC.207(62) – Guidelines for the control and management of ships’ biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species

1 Introduction

2 Definitions

3 Application

4 Objectives

5 Biofouling management plan and record book

6 Anti-fouling system installation and maintenance

7 In-water inspection, cleaning and maintenance

8 Design and construction

9 Dissemination of information

10 Training and education

11 Other measures

12 Future work

Appendix 1 Format and content of Biofouling Management Plan

Appendix 2 Form of Biofouling Record Book