Answer
Under the AFS Convention 2001, Annex 4, ships of 400 GT and above engaged in international voyages generally require an International Anti-Fouling System Certificate.1. Contents of International AFS Certificate
The certificate contains:
- Name of ship
- Distinctive number or letters / Call sign
- Port of registry
- Gross tonnage
- IMO number
- Administration / authorized RO issuing the certificate
- Statement showing the ship has been surveyed in accordance with Annex 4 of AFS Convention
- Statement that the ship's anti-fouling system complies with Annex 1
- It also identifies the compliance condition of the controlled AFS—for example, whether the controlled system:
- has not been applied;
- was applied but has subsequently been removed;
- has been covered by a sealer/barrier coat; or
- falls under the applicable transitional provisions.
- Finally, it contains the date of completion of survey, place/date of issue, signature of authorized official/surveyor and seal/stamp.
2. Annexure — Record of Anti-Fouling Systems
The important annexure attached to the certificate is called the “Record of Anti-Fouling Systems.” It must remain attached to the IAFS Certificate and be kept up to date.
For each AFS application/change, the Record gives details such as:
- Type of anti-fouling system used
- Date of application
- Name of company/facility and location where applied
- Name of anti-fouling system manufacturer
- Name and colour of the product
- Active ingredient(s) and their CAS number(s)
- Details of any sealer/barrier coat
- Whether the existing controlled AFS was removed
- Whether it was covered by a sealer coat
- Date, place, signature and endorsement by the authorized surveyor/Administration following change or replacement of the AFS.
- When the anti-fouling system is changed or replaced, a survey is required and the Record of Anti-Fouling Systems is endorsed.
Latest point for oral: Since 1 January 2023, Annex 1 controls not only organotin compounds such as TBT acting as biocides, but also cybutryne. The model IAFS Certificate was consequently amended.