Prohibition of organotin in antifouling systems: the classification societies' perspective

Recent studies have shown that certain antifouling systems (AFS) used on ships pose a substantial risk of toxicity and other chronic impacts to ecologically and economically important marine organisms. Further, human health may be harmed as a result of eating seafood. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) noted in particular the serious concern regarding AFS that use organotin compounds acting as biocides, and the agency was convinced that the use of organotin in the environment must be phased out. In October 2001, the IMO adopted an International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems hereinafter referred to as 'the Convention.' A common organotin compound normally acting as a biocide is TBT, tributyltinoxide. In this article, TBT is used to refer to organotin. This article summarizes the role of advisory service hat classification societies fulfill before the Convention enters into force and the certify cation required when the Convention enters into force. It also describes the survey of AFS or existing ships as required by the Convention.