DNV GL and Norddeutsche Reederei H. Schuldt have signed a contract to carry out Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) certifications for the shipping company’s managed fleet of more than 50 vessels. The first vessel to undergo sampling and testing is the 3700 TEU container vessel Northern Dexterity. Once complete, this certification provides independent verification of the vessels’ IHM, as required by the European Ship Recycling Regulation.
The sampling and analyses on board Northern Dexterity is being carried out by hazmat specialists from the two independent laboratories exag GmbH Marine Consulting and QSU GmbH, under the supervision of DNV GL. The vessel is scheduled to receive the IHM certificate in February 2017. The project is expected to be completed by early 2018. The IHM is one of the cornerstones of the European Ship Recycling Regulation, according to which every EU-flagged newbuild has to carry an inventory of all hazardous materials contained in its structure or equipment with a statement of compliance by 31 December 2018. The IHM is also an important feature of the Hong Kong Convention, which is expected to enter into force in 2020.
About the EU Ship Recycling Regulation
The European Ship Recycling Regulation, in force since 30 December 2013, addresses the environmental and health issues associated with ship recycling while avoiding unnecessary economic burdens. Applicable to all EU-flagged vessels as well as non-EU-flagged ships calling at or anchoring in ports within the European Union, it accelerates the implementation of the requirements of the Hong Kong Convention and sets out responsibilities for shipowners and recycling facilities both within the EU and in other countries. Of around 60,000 ships around the world, about two thirds are affected by it.
About Norddeutsche Reederei H. Schuldt
Norddeutsche Reederei H. Schuldt is a long-established company in the maritime industry. Exemplary management, future-oriented strategies and good relationships with partners and staff, form the basis for a success story that has lasted close to 150 years. The fleet mainly consists of modern container vessels and their sizes reflect the developments in the market. Norddeutsche Reederei H. Schuldt is a leading partner to international liner companies, which utilize the company's vessels to cover their tonnage needs in various global trades.