Intercargo is “extremely worried” that not enough IMO 2020 compliant fuel is available for testing.
The association said 0.5%-sulphur fuel is available at only a limited number of ports and “under unfavourable terms” at the moment.
It said that presents a safety concern for bulkers because many shipowners will not get the chance to test the new generation of low-sulphur blended fuels, with just five months left until the regulations come in.
Intercargo is encouraging the fuel supply industry to ensure there are “significant volumes” of the new bunkers immediately made available for testing at ports round the world.
Stability issues
There have been possible compatibility, stability and contamination issues linked to ultra-low-sulphur fuel, which is made by blending marine gasoil with conventional heavy fuel oil.
“The practical testing of new fuels and crew training, which is only possible under real conditions aboard ships, is very limited and pushed to the end of the year,” Intercargo said.
“This situation creates significant safety implications for the operation of ships, which could eventually threaten the safety of seafarers, ships and cargoes, as well as the marine environment.”
Intercargo also wants to see charterers and ship operators begin to purchase the fuel and train crew in its handling.
“Seafarers deserve our special consideration, as the industry will largely rely on their skills for managing the new compliant fuels aboard ships ...” it added.
