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.