1 Annex I of the International Convention for
the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol
of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL 73/78),
contains certain regulations and unified interpretations related to
equipment for the storage, handling and disposal of oily residues
and engine-room oily bilge-water.
2 In order to facilitate the work of Administrations
on systems for handling oily wastes in machinery spaces of ships,
the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) has continuously
reviewed an appropriate technology for fulfilment of the Convention
requirements.
3 The Guidelines appendixed to this circular are
guidance for Administrations, shipowners and shipbuilders for consideration
in achieving an efficient and effective system for the handling of
oily bilge-water and oily residues for ships the keels of which are
laid on or after 1 January 1992 and, where practicable, ships already
in service.