Germany's Oldendorff Carriers has made light of Covid-19 restrictions by completing its inventory of hazardous material (IHM) work early.
The process for identifying such materials across the 700-strong fleet was automated with help from tech companies GSR Services and NautilusLog.
The deadline for the new European rules on listing materials was 31 December, but in October, TradeWinds reported that owners could take advantage of a six-month extension due to coronavirus restrictions.
"By identifying, recording and controlling hazardous materials on board via IHM, we support our fleet to ensure crew safety, minimise risks and strengthen sound environmental practices through the vessels’ life cycle," Oldendorff said.
Cloud-based app
The company's solution involved a cloud-based application that removed the administrative workload from seafarers.
"The relevant materials are now identified at the beginning of the purchasing process," the owner said.
Right after an order is imported into the NautilusLog platform, it is evaluated by GSR Services. Relevant suppliers are granted access to upload and manage the requested documentation.
Documents are reviewed and integrated automatically in the platform, becoming available on board and ashore.
"The overall scope is to automate processes that keep our seafarers overloaded with tasks while ensuring the enhancement of safety on board and regulations compliance," Oldendorff added.
The European Union extended the deadline after an outcry from shipping industry stakeholders.
The EU Ship Recycling Regulation requires all EU-flag owners and all ships that call in EU ports and anchorages to carry an inventory of hazardous materials on board.
Stringent penalties for non-compliance could include a fine of up to €100,000 ($121,300), or even imprisonment in France.
In July, shipowners' organisation Bimco had warned that owners were in danger of not complying with new scrapping regulations because of the pandemic.
