Under the European Regulation, from July 1st, 2021, any ship which is 500GT or over, regardless of flag, requires a valid and certified Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) on board, if calling at an EU port or anchorage.
Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) Awareness training course raises awareness and presents information about the key points and processes of the IHM, which aims to protect health and safety and prevent environmental pollution.
Hazardous materials are handled onboard daily, exposing crew, ships, and the environment to potential risk. Ship owners can face significant liability if these materials are not adequately recorded.
What is the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM)?
The Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) is an essential tool required for all ships and offshore installations engaged in international voyages, with the aim to promote safety and environmental protection. It not only identifies but also quantifies all hazardous materials onboard that pose a risk to people, property, and the environment. This comprehensive document includes materials such as asbestos, ozone-depleting substances, lead-based paint, and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs). The development of an IHM involves the intensive surveying of a vessel or installation by experts to ensure compliance with regulations. Its implementation helps to carefully manage these harmful substances during operational life and eventual disposal or recycling of a ship or platform.
Key Learning Objectives
This course is designed to offer a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials. Throughout the duration of this course, you will acquire the necessary skills and information to successfully achieve the following learning outcomes:
- You will gain the ability to effectively identify and list the specific objectives outlined in the EU ship recycling regulation that pertain to the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM). This will enable you to have a clear understanding of the regulatory framework governing this important aspect.
- Furthermore, you will be equipped with the capability to describe in detail the various stages involved in both developing and maintaining an IHM. This includes a thorough examination of the processes and procedures that are essential for ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines.
- By accomplishing these learning outcomes, you will not only enhance your overall understanding of IHM but also be well-prepared to apply this knowledge practically in real-world scenarios.
Course Contents
This course covers a range of important topics related to ship safety and compliance. It provides an in-depth understanding of various regulations and standards that govern the management of hazardous materials on ships.
- The Hong Kong Convention (HKC) is explored, highlighting its significance in ensuring the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. EU Regulation No. 1257/2013 is also discussed, focusing on its specific requirements for ships operating in European waters.
- The course emphasizes the importance of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) and its role in identifying and managing potentially harmful substances aboard ships. It delves into the characteristics of IHM and their implications for effective risk mitigation and protection of crew members and the environment.
- In addition, the course examines the overarching principles that guide IHM implementation. These principles promote transparency, accountability, and sustainability in ship operations, emphasizing the need for responsible hazardous materials management practices.
- Sampling and analysis techniques used to assess hazardous materials are covered in detail, equipping participants with practical skills to accurately carry out these crucial tasks. The course also addresses the training and qualifications required to become an IHM expert, providing guidance on acquiring necessary certifications and developing essential expertise.
- Different parts of IHM are explored throughout the course. Part I focuses on the development process for new ships, outlining steps to ensure compliance with IHM requirements from their inception. Similarly, Part I also addresses the development process for existing ships, offering procedures and guidelines for adapting older vessels to meet IHM standards.
- Maintenance of IHM Part I is emphasized as an ongoing requirement to ensure continuous compliance. The course offers insights into effectively managing updates, revisions, and changes in the hazardous materials inventory as a ship ages.
- Furthermore, participants gain knowledge about the development process for IHM Part II & III. These sections expand upon Part I by incorporating additional measures for hazardous materials management during different stages of a vessel’s lifecycle.
- Lifetime quality management is highlighted as a critical aspect of IHM, emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring, inspections, and audits to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
- The course also covers the survey process for IHM, providing participants with an understanding of how inspections are conducted to verify compliance with regulations and identify any potential gaps or areas for improvement.
- Finally, the course addresses the issuance and duration of IHM certificates. Participants learn about the significance of these certificates as proof of a ship’s compliance with hazardous materials management requirements.
Who Should Attend?
- Master & Ship’s Officers
- Company Operators, Ashore Personnel
Course Delivery Method
The course leverages an interactive digital platform that offers learners flexibility to study at their own pace through engaging multimedia content such as videos, animations, quizzes alongside simulations resembling real-life situations.
Duration: 30min
Approval: ABS and Liberia
You might also be interested in this course: IMDG Code: Hazardous and harmful cargoes
