Which vessels are required to have a Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan (SMPEP)?

The requirement for a Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan (SMPEP) is specifically aimed at vessels that are over 150 gross tonnage. This regulation is in place to ensure that these vessels have a prepared and systematic approach to deal with any potential pollution emergencies that may arise during operations.

A properly developed SMPEP helps define the procedures for crew members and officers to follow in the event of an incident that could lead to pollution. This encompasses not only oil spills but also the release of hazardous materials and other harmful substances into the marine environment.

While the other options mention various classes of vessels that might be involved in hazardous operations, they do not align with the specific gross tonnage requirement laid out in international conventions such as MARPOL, which outlines the need for a marine pollution emergency plan for vessels of this size and above. Therefore, vessels over 150 gross tonnage are mandated to have an SMPEP, ensuring preparedness and compliance with environmental protection standards.