These amendments have been consolidated into SOLAS Chapter II-2 Part E
Regulation 16 – Operations
13 The following new paragraph is added after
paragraph 3.2:
“3.3
Operation of inert
gas system
3.3.1 The inert gas system for tankers required
in accordance with regulation 4.5.5.1 shall be so operated as to render
and maintain the atmosphere of the cargo tanks non-flammable, except
when such tanks are required to be gas-free.
3.3.2 Notwithstanding the above, for chemical
tankers, the application of inert gas, may take place after the cargo
tank has been loaded, but before commencement of unloading and shall
continue to be applied until that cargo tank has been purged of all
flammable vapours before gas-freeing. Only nitrogen is acceptable
as inert gas under this provision.
3.3.3 Notwithstanding regulation 1.2.2.2, the
provisions of this paragraph shall only apply to tankers constructed
on or after 1 January 2016. If the oxygen content of the inert gas
exceeds 5% by volume, immediate action shall be taken to improve the
gas quality. Unless the quality of the gas improves, all operations
in those cargo tanks to which inert gas is being supplied shall be
suspended so as to avoid air being drawn into the cargo tanks, the
gas regulating valve, if fitted, shall be closed and the off-specification
gas shall be vented to atmosphere.
3.3.4 In the event that the inert gas system is
unable to meet the requirement in paragraph 16.3.3.1 and it has been
assessed that it is impractical to effect a repair, then cargo discharge
and cleaning of those cargo tanks requiring inerting shall only be
resumed when suitable emergency procedures have been followed, taking
into account guidelines developed by the Organizationfootnote.