Technical Circular No: 85/2020
IMO vide Resolutions, MEPC.314 (74), MEPC.316 (74), and MEPC.317 (74) has adopted amendments to MARPOL and the NOx Technical Code allowing Electronic Record Books (ERBs) to be used instead of hard copy record books. The amendments will enter into force from 1st October 2020. Associated guidelines for the use of MARPOL ERBs were also adopted vide IMO Resolution MEPC.312 (74).
An Electronic Record Book is a software application designed to replace the traditional paper record books and facilitate accurate entries into an efficient electronic format, while complying with international Conventions and flag State requirements.
ERBs may be used on board to meet the following record book and recording requirements under the MARPOL Annexes and the NOx Technical Code:
Oil Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex I, Regulations 17.1 and 36.1);
Cargo Record Book (MARPOL Annex II, Regulation 15.1);
Garbage Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex V, Regulation 10.3);
Ozone-depleting Substances (ODS) Record Book (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 12.6);
Recording of the tier and on or off status of marine diesel engines (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 13.5.3);
Record of Fuel Oil Changeover (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 14.6); and
Record Book of Engine Parameters (NOx Technical Code, paragraph 6.2.2.7).
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has developed an electronic version of Oil Record Book Part I & Part II in form of a software named “IR Scribe” to enable entries for machinery space operations as well as Cargo/Ballast operations as per Marpol Annex I Reg.17 & 36. “IR Scribe” has been developed taking into the guidelines included in MEPC.312 (74). Marshall Island Flag Administration has approved the “IR-Scribe” for its use on Marshall Island Flag Vessels vide their Marine Notice No. 7-041-5.
When the electronic record book is proposed to be used on board a ship, based on request from Company, the Administration will issue a ‘Declaration of MARPOL Electronic Record Book(s)’ which must be kept on board for presentation to duly authorised officials when requested. The procedures related to the use of ERBs must be documented in the Safety Management System.
Ship owners/ operators are advised to be guided by above..
ELECTRONIC RECORD BOOKS (ERB) FOR SHIPS,Oil Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex I, Regulations 17.1 and 36.1)
