Double bottom structure required for small tankers in S. Korea

By Lim Chang-won Posted : February 12, 2019, 13:08 Updated : February 12, 2019, 13:08

[Yonhap Photo]


SEOUL -- From 2020, all small tankers below 600 DWT (deadweight tonnage) in South Korea must have a double bottom structure gradually under revised regulations aimed at preventing maritime pollution by leaked oil. 

The amendment published by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries on Tuesday carried a grace period, with rules to be applied step by step according to age. The double bottom structure prevents oil from being carried to the sea even if there is a hole in the bottom due to grounding or aging, the ministry said.

Tankers with an age of 50 years or more should have a double bottom structure from 2020. Ships which are 40-year-old or more will have to change their bottom structure from 2021. New rules will be applied from 2022 to ships which are less than 40 years old.

The ministry agreed to provide subsidies and low-interest loans when tankers change their cargo hold. Double bottoms have been required in all passenger ships because they are safer than single bottoms.
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