An electronic record book can be used as an alternative to a hard copy ship record book, as per MARPOL regulations. Guidelines for the Electronic Record Books usage have been developed by the IMO.

Prior any electronic record book usage, ERBs should be assessed by the Flag Administration or on behalf of the Flag by a Recognized Organization, in order a ‘Declaration of MARPOL electronic record book’ to be issued. A copy of the related declaration should be kept on-board.

The MARPOL and NOx Technical Code amendments will enter into force on 1 October 2020, and will permit the electronic recording of the following record books:

-Oil Record Book, part I (MARPOL Annex I)      

-Oil Record Book, part II (MARPOL Annex I)

-Cargo Record Book (MARPOL Annex II)

-Garbage Record Book, part I and II (MARPOL Annex V)

-Ozone-depleting Substances Record Book (MARPOL Annex VI)

-Recording of the tier and on/off status of marine diesel engines (MARPOL Annex VI)

-Record of Fuel Oil Changeover (MARPOL Annex VI)

-Record Book of Engine Parameters (NOx Technical Code).

Masters and Ship Operators should ensure that all ship log books that are on board are maintained accurately and in a timely manner.

Source: MEPC.312(74), MEPC.314(74), MEPC.316(74), MEPC.317(74)

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