Which vessels are required to maintain an ORB Part 1?

The requirement for vessels to maintain an Oil Record Book (ORB) Part 1 applies specifically to ships over 400 gross tons. This regulation is established to ensure that maritime operations comply with the MARPOL Annex I, which addresses the prevention of pollution from oil. Maintaining an ORB Part 1 helps promote transparency and accountability in oil handling and disposal operations, allowing for proper tracking and reporting of any discharge or operational incidents involving oil.

This regulation is crucial for larger vessels, as they have a greater capacity for carrying oil and can pose a more significant risk of oil pollution if not properly managed. Therefore, all vessels that meet or exceed the 400 gross tonnage threshold are subject to these requirements, facilitating oversight and enforcement by port state control authorities.

Vessels under 150 gross tons do not have the same stringent requirements for keeping an ORB Part 1. While all fishing vessels may have specific regulations governing their operations, not all are required to maintain an ORB Part 1 unless they are over the gross tonnage limit. The bulk carrier classification doesn't inherently require an ORB Part 1 unless the vessel also meets the specified tonnage criteria.