Ozone-depleting substances (ODS) – Regulation 12

Included within the definition of ODS are the chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and halons used respectively in older refrigeration and fire-fighting systems and portable equipment.  ODS were also used as the blowing agent in some insulation foams.  Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) were introduced as an intermediate replacement for CFCs but are themselves still classed as ODS.  As part of a world-wide movement, the production and use of all these materials is being phased out under the provisions of the Montreal Protocol.

The controls in this regulation do not apply to permanently sealed equipment without charging connections or removable components; this typically covers items such as small, domestic type, refrigerators, air conditioners and water coolers.

No CFC or halon containing system or equipment is permitted to be installed on ships constructed on or after 19 May 2005 and no new installation of the same is permitted on or after that date on existing ships. Similarly, no HCFC containing system or equipment is permitted to be installed on ships constructed on or after 1 January 2020 and no new installation of the same is permitted on or after that date on existing ships.

Existing systems and equipment are permitted to continue in service and may be recharged as necessary.  However, the deliberate discharge of ODS to the atmosphere is prohibited. When servicing or decommissioning systems or equipment containing ODS the gases are to be duly collected in a controlled manner and, if not to be reused onboard, are to be landed to appropriate reception facilities for banking or destruction.  Any redundant equipment or material containing ODS is to be landed ashore for appropriate decommissioning or disposal. The latter also applies when a ship is dismantled at the end of its service life.