Section 2 Hazards listed in Table A (HKC) / Annex II (EU SRR)

2.1.1 According to Resolution MEPC.269(68) – 2015 Guidelines for the Development of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials:

‘For existing ships it is not obligatory for materials listed in Table B to be listed in Part I of the Inventory. However, if they can be identified in a practical way, they should be listed in the Inventory, because the information will be used to support ship recycling processes.’

2.1.2 An ‘indicative list’ for Table B hazards, which can be found in Appendix 5 - Example of the Development Process for Part I of the Inventory for Existing Ships of the IMO Guidelines (Resolution MEPC.269(68) – 2015 Guidelines for the Development of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials), is summarised in Table 4.2.1 ‘Indicative list’ of Table B (HKC) hazards.

2.2.1 Cadmium has historically had many uses. Cadmium is used on board ships as an alloy in bearings and other components. Another main use is as a dye for textiles and plastics. It is used to produce yellow or orange and so it may be present in any yellow or orange materials or plastics.

2.3.1 Hexavalent chromium is used in passivating layers, not only as an electroplated layer, but also, in high percentages, in passivating paints.

2.4.1 Elemental mercury is common in instruments for measuring temperature and pressure, and also in switches and fluorescent lights. Mercury can fatally damage the brain and the kidneys. Low levels of exposure in prospective mothers can severely damage babies and children. Inhaled mercury is very toxic and mercury will evaporate slowly; a broken thermometer can contaminate a room to toxic levels.

2.4.2 Mercury is found in switches, ballast gauge systems, thermometers and fluorescent lights.

2.4.3 Fluorescent lights generally contain small amounts of mercury; pre-1988 tubes may contain about 45 mg per tube. It is therefore recommended that all tubes are declared as containing mercury, unless other information is readily available.

2.5.1 Lead is a very common additive; solder is a well-known use.

2.6.1 Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) are similar to PCBs. They are used as flame retardants, especially in textiles and plastics.

2.7.1 Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants.

2.8.1 Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) have been used in many electrical devices, but also for the impregnation of woods and textiles to make them waterproof, flame-resistant and protect against moulds.

2.9.1 These items are relatively well understood and several recycling ports are known to require radiation surveys before arrival. The likelihood of genuine risk is thought to be exceptionally low.

2.9.2 The most common use of radioactive materials is in ionising smoke detectors. These generally use americium-241. All detector heads must be on the approved Fire Control/Safety Plan, and this can easily be checked and included in the IHM.

2.9.3 Radioactive elements may also be used in tank sounding and ullage devices, radars and radioluminescent (emergency) signs.

2.9.4 Other items that might need consideration include carriage of radioactive materials and cargo, such as drilling mud or spent nuclear fuel. Naturally occurring radioactive materials (radionuclides) may be present in drilling mud or firebricks. Once again, the services of a recognised expert would be recommended, especially if a heightened risk is associated with an offshore supply ship or a nuclear fuel carrier, for example.

2.10.1 According to the US EPA the largest use of short-chained chlorinated paraffins is as a component of lubricants and coolants in metal cutting and metal forming operations. The second-largest use is as both a secondary plasticiser and a flame retardant in plastics, especially PVC. Other minor domestic uses are as a plasticiser and a flame-retardant additive to a variety of products including: rubber formulations, paints and other coatings, and adhesives and sealants.

2.11.1 Brominated flame retardant (HBCDD) is used as flame retardant additive, providing fire protection during the service life of vehicles, buildings or articles, as well as protection while stored. The main uses of HBCDD globally are in expanded (EPS) and extruded (XPS) polystyrene foam insulation while the use in textile applications and electric and electronic appliances is smaller.

2.11.2 An indicative list of materials/items which may contain HBCDD is summarised in Table 4.2.2 ‘Indicative list’ of components which may contain HBCDD which is adapted from EMSA’s Best Practice Guidance on the Inventory of Hazardous Materials. The information in this Table is synthesised from both the EMSA’s Best Practice Guidance on the Inventory of Hazardous Materials and EMSA Study of two hazardous substances (PFOS and HBCDD).