Maritec-Naias, a marine fuel testing service, has identified a critical non-compliance issue in bunker fuel samples sourced from a single supplier in Indonesia. Eight samples of low sulphur marine distillate oil (LSMDO) and B40 fuel, delivered between July 21 and August 4, were found to have flashpoints significantly below the 60°C minimum stipulated by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and ISO 8217 standards. Some samples registered flashpoints as low as 39.5°C.
This discovery highlights a serious safety concern for vessels operating with these fuels, as a low flashpoint increases the risk of fire and explosions on board. Maritec-Naias is advising buyers of bunker fuels in Indonesia to demand actual flashpoint values from suppliers to ensure compliance and safety. For those who have already bunkered non-compliant fuel, immediate action is recommended to mitigate potential hazards.
For freight forwarders and vessel operators, this development means increased scrutiny is necessary when procuring bunker fuels, particularly in the Indonesian market. Non-compliant fuel can lead to vessel detentions, insurance issues, and severe safety incidents, impacting shipping schedules and cargo integrity. Operations managers should ensure their vessels' bunkering procedures include rigorous testing and verification of fuel specifications, especially flashpoint, to avoid operational disruptions and potential liabilities. This situation underscores the importance of robust quality control in the bunkering process to maintain vessel safety and regulatory compliance.
