Applicability: shipowners, ship operators, ship managers and ship masters.
MARPOL Annex VI has seen numerous changes over the years such as inclusion of chapter 4 and chapter 5. Similarly, IMO through Resolution MEPC.362(79) approved a change to the contents of the Bunker Delivery Note (BDN) i.e., inclusion of a statement on flashpoint.
Appendix V of MARPOL Annex VI details the information which shall be displayed on the BDN. Currently reporting the fuels flashpoint is not a mandatory requirement. However, from 1st May 2024, BDN should state a specific flashpoint value of the fuel if flashpoint is below 70oC, otherwise a statement that the flashpoint has been measured at or above 70oC. Moreover, the amended Appendix V also stipulates the relevant test method for the flashpoint which is ISO 2719:2016, determination of flashpoint – Pensky-Martens closed cup method, Procedure A (for distillate fuels) or Procedure B (for Residual fuels).
Suppliers should start to put above information on the BDNs for fuel deliveries on and after 1st May 2024. However, in cases where this information is missing then as fuel buyers, this should be flagged with the supplier and recorded by issuing a ‘letter of protest’.
If you require any further information about this Bulletin, please contact us at fobas@lr.org.