What is Annex IV of MARPOL 73/78 ( Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from Ships )and discharge regulations ?

Applicability of Annex IV

Annex IV will apply to following ships on international voyages-

1. New ships of 400 GRT & above
2. New ships of less than 400 GRT which are certified to carry more than 15 persons.
3. Existing ships of 400 GRT & above, 5 years after the date of entry into force of this annex. (27 Sept, 2003)
4. Existing ships of less than 400 GRT which are certified to carry more than 15 persons, 5 years after the date of entry into force of this annex.

Special Area:  Baltic Sea

Sewage discharge Regulations :

1. The ship is to discharge commentated and disinfected sewage using an approved system at a distance of more than 3NM from the nearest land or sewage which is not comminuted or disinfected at a distance of more than 12NM.
2. Sewage from holding tank should not be discharged instantaneously but a moderate rate when the ship is en route and proceeding at not less than 4 Knots.
3. The ship has in operation an approved sewage treatment plant which has been certified by the administrations.
4. The test results of the plant are laid down in the ships international sewage pollution prevention (ISPP) certificate.
5. Additionally the effluent shall not produce visible floating solids nor cause discoloration of the surrounding water.

Comminutor : It is to cut the sewage materials at a size of less than 25 mm.