The Singapore Standard SS 648: 2019 – Code of Practice for Bunker Mass Flow Metering will be taking effect from 1 May 2020, said the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Tuesday (25 February).
SS 648: 2019, launched on 7 November 2019, is a revision of TR 48: 2015 – Technical Reference for Bunker Mass Flow Metering which was implemented on 1 June 2016 by the MPA.
TR 48: 2015 was reviewed and developed into SS 648: 2019, taking into account the operational and technical experience gained by the bunkering industry on the use of the MFM.
Under the coordination of the Singapore Standards Council, the review was jointly conducted by MPA, Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA), bunker suppliers, bunker craft operators, bunker surveying firms, meter vendors, National Metrology Centre and Enterprise Singapore’s Weights and Measures Office.
“SS 648: 2019 includes new requirements for multi-meter installation, enhancement of the zero verification procedure and clarity on the role of bunker surveyors,” stated MPA.
“Starting from 1 May 2020, MPA will mandate SS 648: 2019 for the custody transfer of bunker deliveries to ocean-going ships in the Port of Singapore.
“The existing bunkering standards, TR 48: 2015, will cease to apply by end November 2020.”
As part of MPA’s ongoing efforts to enhance bunker cargo officers’ and bunker surveyors’ professionalism and competency, MPA has worked with SSA and IBIA to develop refresher courses to cover technical knowledge of MFM bunker operations and raise awareness on the SS 648: 2019.
All in-service bunker cargo officers and bunker surveyors are required to attend the refresher course conducted by either SSA or IBIA.
Information on the courses can be obtained from:
Singapore Shipping Association
Website: www.ssa.org.sg
Tel: 6305 2260
Fax: 6222 5527
International bunker Industry Association
Website: www.ibia.net
Tel: 6427 0916
Fax: 6472 0919
Related: Singapore Standards Council launches new Singapore Standard SS 648 to replace TR 48
Related: SS 648 an evolution from TR 48, says MFM consultancy Metcore International
Related: IBIA Asia launches MPA-approved 1 Day Bunkering Course (SS648:2019)
Photo credit: Manifold Times
Published: 25 February, 2020
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