DNV focuses on crew competence in managing marine fuel for safety
DNV Petroleum Services in Singapore says that crew competence is failing to keep pace with developments in ship operation.
Despite advancement in technology and design giving rise to progressively more sophisticated vessels with greater efficiency and environmental-friendly features, training and competence is a major factor behind today’s reverse trend in ship safety today, says DNV. One vital area that is particularly lacking in attention is effective bunker management, which DNVPS regional manager Bill Stamatopoulos regards as a basic requirement for safe vessel operations.
Besides safety considerations, Stamatopoulos says shipboard personnel must manage strict fuel regulations as well as the economic imperative of ensuring the right quality and quantity of fuel is received, given today’s high bunker prices. “We see a major problem with young seafarers working on a big ship and not knowing enough about fuel quality, bunkering procedures or proper fuel handling. Very few of them have seen how contaminated bunkers can cause the ship engine to break down suddenly and threaten the safety of everyone onboard, especially in rough weather conditions,” he says.
IFO 380, the most common heavy fuel grade used by commercial vessels, averages $650 per tonne, compared to less than $500 per tonne in 2010. Current fuel regulations include MARPOL Annex VI, with a global fuel sulphur cap of 4.50% and a 1.00% limit in the Baltic Sea and North Sea Emission Control Areas (ECAs). From Jan 1, 2012, the global sulphur cap will be reduced to 3.50%. The North American ECA will also enter into force on Aug 1 2012, with the likelihood of raising demand for the more expensive low sulphur fuel products. This in turn will add to the fuel expenses of shipping companies trading in the ECAs. In addition to MARPOL Annex VI, the EU Directive 2005/33/EC requires ships in the EU community ports and inland waterways to use fuel with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.1%. Seafarers need to be aware of all these considerations, according to DNVPS.
“It’s vitally important for the ship crew to know how to get the most out of their fuel – safely and without contravening the applicable fuel regulations,” says Stamatopoulos, adding that: “training and competence development in bunker management must start in school, not on the vessel.”
Upon entering the industry, shipboard personnel should undergo regular competence assessment and continual training to keep abreast of changes in the operating environment.
“Most important of all, their employers – the shipping companies – must invest in a strong safety culture,” Mr. Stamatopoulos says.
Committed to sharing its knowledge and expertise in marine fuel, DNVPS has been providing training to maritime academies in Greece, Norway, Russia and Singapore.
