USCG to begin accepting ERBs

Amendments to MARPOL 73/78 permitting vessels to electronically record discharges, transfers, and other reportable operations required under Annexes I, II, V and VI in Electronic Record Books (ERB) entered into force on 1 October 2020. The US Coast Guard has issued a bulletin advising that Coast Guard Port State Control Officers (PSCO) and Marine Inspectors will begin examining ERBs in a similar manner as written record books. Members are reminded that they should be prepared to provide the PSCO with a copy of the “Declaration of Marpol Electronic Record Book” issued by the Flag Administration confirming that the electronic system in use meets the criteria provided in IMO Resolution MEPC.312(74). 

Please refer to the UK P&I Club’s “Guidelines for use of MARPOL Electronic Record Books (“ERBs”)”.

Jacqueline Tan

Legal Services Manager

Date07/10/2020

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