Oil sampling practices must be reviewed

The IMO's updated protocol, MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.18, mandates that fuel samples collected for MARPOL compliance now be a minimum of 600 ml, up from the previous 400 ml. This change ensures there is sufficient material to perform both sulphur content testing under MARPOL and flash point testing under SOLAS requirements. It also reinforces proper sampling procedures, including the use of tamper-evident containers, accurate labelling and secure onboard storage. "Sampling is often regarded as a technicality, but it is the foundation for effective compliance and dispute resolution", said David Fuhlbrügge, managing director of CM Technologies. "Too often, we see crew improvising with makeshift containers due to a lack of proper gear onboard. Samples are often sent to labs in recycled beverage bottles - which can invalidate test results."