IUMI wants refineries test low sulphur fuels for contamination

The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) is calling on refineries to ensure the low sulphur fuels they produce are not contaminated by conducting tests. IUMI argued that with governments compelling ship operators to use certain grade fuels, refineries should ensure the quality of its fuel. IUMI also noted that low sulphur fuel is not of the same quality around the world and that some fuel types contain high levels of cat fines.

The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) is trying to force refineries to conduct testing on low sulphur fuels ahead of the introduction of the global sulphur cap next year.

The global association gave a winter update to journalists earlier this week in which it discussed the fuel issues as well as the spate of ship casualties seen in recent months.

IUMI said in a statement prepared for the media that it is concerned that incidents of fuel contamination are increasing.

Currently, fuel testing is undertaken by the end-user, but this ought to change, IUMI suggested.

“Since governments oblige ship operators to burn certain grades of fuel, IUMI believes refineries should be compelled to conduct testing and confirm the delivery of non-contaminated fuel. If action is not taken to ensure reduced contamination, IUMI is concerned that the shipping industry will be faced with additional expense which insurance will not automatically cover,” the insurance body stated.

Low sulphur fuel supply is not consistent around the world with IUMI pointing out this type of fuel often contains a high level of cat fines which onboard systems and processes often fail to filter out. Differences in flashpoint and combustibility are also evident.

IUMI is calling for regulation that obliges refineries to guarantee the quality of their fuel and for vessel operators to enhance their systems, processes and training to protect their vessels against the potential impact of using low sulphur bunkers.