Clasification Society Rulefinder 2016 - Version 9.25
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Resolutions - Marine Environment Protection Committee - Resolution MEPC.197(62) – 2011 Guidelines for the Development of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials – (Adopted on 15 July 2011) - Annex – 2011 Guidelines for the Development of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials - Appendix 9 – Specific Test Methods - 1 Asbestos

1 Asbestos

  Types to test for: as per resolution MEPC.179(59); Actinolite CAS 77536-66-4 Amosite (Grunerite) CAS 12172-73-5 Anthophyllite CAS 77536-67-5 Chrysotile CAS 12001-29-5 Crocidolite CAS 12001-28-4 Asbestos Tremolite CAS 77536-68-6.

  Specific testing techniques: Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), electron microscope techniques and/or X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) as applicable.

  Specific reporting information: The presence/no presence of asbestos, indicate the concentration range, and state the type when necessary.

Note .1 The suggested three kinds of testing techniques are most commonly used methods when analysing asbestos and each of them has its limitation. Laboratories should choose the most suitable methods to determine, and in most cases, two or more techniques should be utilized together.

Note .2 The quantification of asbestos is difficult at this stage, although the XRD technique is applicable. Only a few laboratories conduct the quantification rather than the qualification, especially when a precise number is required. Considering the demand from the operators and ship recycling parties, the precise concentration is not strictly required. Thereby, the concentration range is recommended to report, and the recommended range division according to standard VDI 3866 is as follows:

  • Asbestos not detected
  • Traces of asbestos detected
  • Asbestos content approx. 1% to 15% by mass
  • Asbestos content approx. 15% to 40% by mass
  • Asbestos content greater than 40% by mass

Results that specified more precisely must be provided with a reasoned statement on the uncertainty.

Note .3 As to the asbestos types, to distinguish all six different types is time consuming and in some cases not feasible by current techniques; while on the practical side, the treatment of different types of asbestos is the same. Therefore, it is suggested to report the type when necessary.

Parent topic: Appendix 9 – Specific Test Methods
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