2 Definitions
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Resolutions - Marine Environment Protection Committee - Resolution MEPC.207(62) – 2011 Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships' Biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive Aquatic Species – (Adopted on 15 July 2011) - Annex – 2011 Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships' Biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive Aquatic Species - 2 Definitions

2 Definitions

  2.1 For the purposes of these Guidelines, the following definitions apply:

  AFS Convention means the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships, 2001.

  Anti-fouling coating system means the combination of all component coatings, surface treatments (including primer, sealer, binder, anti-corrosive and anti-fouling coatings) or other surface treatments, used on a ship to control or prevent attachment of unwanted aquatic organisms.

  Anti-fouling system means a coating, paint, surface treatment, surface, or device that is used on a ship to control or prevent attachment of unwanted organisms.

  Biofouling means the accumulation of aquatic organisms such as micro-organisms, plants, and animals on surfaces and structures immersed in or exposed to the aquatic environment. Biofouling can include microfouling and macrofouling (see below).

  In-water cleaning means the physical removal of biofouling from a ship while in the water.

  Invasive aquatic species means a species which may pose threats to human, animal and plant life, economic and cultural activities and the aquatic environment.

  Marine Growth Prevention System (MGPS) means an anti-fouling system used for the prevention of biofouling accumulation in internal seawater cooling systems and sea chests and can include the use of anodes, injection systems and electrolysis.

  Member States means States that are Members of the International Maritime Organization.

  Macrofouling means large, distinct multicellular organisms visible to the human eye such as barnacles, tubeworms, or fronds of algae.

  Microfouling means microscopic organisms including bacteria and diatoms and the slimy substances that they produce. Biofouling comprised of only microfouling is commonly referred to as a slime layer.

  Niche areas mean areas on a ship that may be more susceptible to biofouling due to different hydrodynamic forces, susceptibility to coating system wear or damage, or being inadequately, or not, painted, e.g., sea chests, bow thrusters, propeller shafts, inlet gratings, dry-dock support strips, etc.

  Organization means the International Maritime Organization.

  Port State authority means any official or organization authorized by the Government of a port State to verify the compliance and enforcement of standards and regulations relevant to the implementation of national and international shipping control measures.

  Ship means a vessel of any type whatsoever operating in the aquatic environment and includes hydrofoil boats, air-cushion vehicles, submersibles, floating craft, fixed or floating platforms, floating storage units (FSUs) and floating production storage and off-loading units (FPSOs).

  States means coastal, port or Member States as appropriate.

  Treatment means a process which may use a mechanical, physical, chemical or biological method to remove or render sterile, invasive or potentially invasive aquatic species fouling a ship.


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