1 Since 1 July 2002, the installation of materials
that contain asbestos has, under SOLAS regulation II-1/3-5, been prohibited for all ships, except
for some vanes, joints and insulation. From 1 January 2011, any installation
of materials that contain asbestos will, under SOLAS regulation II-1/3-5, be prohibited,
for all ships without exceptions.
2 Despite the clear and unambiguous prohibition
of asbestos containing materials (ACMs), asbestos is still found on
various locations on board ships. During inspections, asbestos has
been found in such places as fire blankets, joints and insulation
materials, types of sealants, friction material for brakes, wall and
ceiling coverings, cords, remnants, electric fuses, etc. Moreover,
ships that initially were free of asbestos appear to have asbestos
on board as a result of repairs at shipyards and/or of purchasing
spare parts at a later stage.