Latest regulations in force will require vessels carrying radioactive contaminated scrap cargo back on board to return it to country of origin if the import formalities imposed by authorities are not met.
Turkish correspondent provides the below updates:
- According to the local surveyors they have so far encountered radioactive scrap materials loaded from France and South American ports.
- Shipowners to note that during cargo discharge operations, scrap cargo loaded onto trucks is checked using fixed radioactive detectors to ensure the cargo's radioactivity levels comply with standards.
- As per regulations, the entrance of a radioactive scrap cargo is not permitted if the authorities are not presented with a non-radioactivity certificate issued by company authorized by the NRA (Nuclear Regulatory Authority).
- Shipowners / Charterers are recommended to verify whether the non-radioactivity certificates provided by the Shippers at load port have been issued by a company authorized by the Turkish NRA.
- If the radioactive levels exceed the maximum permissible limits and/or a non-radioactivity certificate in line with the Turkish NRA is not available, then the Customs Authorities and the Harbour Master are not expected to permit the vessel’s departure unless the relevant piece of cargo is loaded back on board or the importer confirms that the necessary arrangements for the cargo to be sent to its origin have been made.
- We recommend members to exercise due diligence when carrying radioactive scrap materials and consider their contract provisions with a view to minimize any associated risks and losses. Members are advised to contact their usual contacts within their Underwriters for support and guidance.
Full advisory at the following link.